Vacation rentals in Polk County

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Polk County

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite

A vibrant living room features a curvy orange couch, complementing a playful area rug with geometric patterns. A glass window allows natural light to illuminate the space, highlighting the eclectic decor on a nearby shelf. Seating includes a striped chair and a coffee table.

Home in Des Moines

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 227 reviews

MidCentury, technicolor Ranch w/yard, w+d, parking

- Ranch home in Des Moines' friendly Beaverdale neighborhood - Steps from grocery store, ice cream shop+dining - Blocks to more dining+shops - Less than 5 minutes from Drake University - Around 10 minutes from downtown, Des Moines, Arts Center, parks - Easy access within 15 minutes to suburbs - 1000+ feet with open living, dining and kitchen, 2 beds, 1 bath, laundry and on-site parking - Outdoor front porch, back patio+fire pit - Perfect for a family or two couples ***Send your special requests!

Guest favorite

The kitchen features classic wooden cabinetry and retro-style appliances, including a pale cream refrigerator. A patterned backsplash complements the checkered floor, while shelves display colorful dinnerware. Natural light fills the space, enhancing the inviting atmosphere for cooking and gathering.

Home in Ankeny

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 156 reviews

Historic Home on 4 Acres - Hot Tub, Pool, Tiki Bar

Our 1948 vacation home is on 4 acres & boasts 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2 half baths, Bridal Suite (4th bedroom), 70s TV/Game Room, Tiki Bar, & Children's Playroom. Outside we have a pool (guaranteed to be open 5/26 - 9/5) & hot tub (year round). Located 15min away from Downtown DSM & a mile away from a grocery store/restaurants. Up to 2 dogs allowed for an additional fee. ***Events/photo shoots are allowed with written permission only and will be an added fee. No events larger than 25 total.***

Guest favorite

A spacious living area features large windows, offering expansive views of the skyline. Modern furnishings include a cozy couch, two accent chairs, and a coffee table. A sleek electric fireplace is positioned beneath a wall-mounted TV, enhancing the contemporary design of the space.

Townhouse in Des Moines

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 115 reviews

This is the best Des Moines has to offer!

Welcome to a beautiful 3 story townhome in the heart of Des Moines. If an upscale modern home with an incredible view is your thing, you will be in heaven. Inside you’ll find a clean, bright and well decorated home with all the amenities you'll need to kick back, relax and enjoy your stay. Minutes from shopping, dining and nightlife. The bike trail is across the street where you can ride to Gray’s Lake or stroll to downtown DSM and enjoy the Farmer's Market, Civic Center and Principal Park.

Top guest favorite

A comfortable living area features a black leather sofa adorned with light-colored pillows, complemented by a dark brown ottoman. Soft light emanates from a floor lamp against a navy wall, while sheer curtains gently filter natural light. A massage chair is visible in the background.

Place to stay in Des Moines

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 318 reviews

Historic 1-bedroom carriage house apartment

Located in the heart of the Sherman Hill Historic District, this charming one bedroom carriage house has everything you need whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure. It features a plush king bed that guests rave about, a 50” television, massage chair, fully stocked kitchen, large shower, high end linens and beautiful courtyard. The property is within walking distance to downtown, historic Hoyt Sherman Place Theater, restaurants, a world class sculpture park and live entertainment.

Top guest favorite

A well-lit bathroom features a double vanity with a polished countertop and dark-framed mirrors. A spacious glass shower with a tiled wall is visible, while decorative elements like baskets add organization. Light wooden flooring contributes to the overall modern aesthetic.

Barn in Des Moines

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 290 reviews

“The Miles Barn” Gorgeous Industrial Loft

Welcome to our beautiful open concept industrial loft. Upon entering our cozy abode, you'll find a clean, bright, well decorated home with many great amenities where you can kick back, relax and enjoy your stay. If high ceilings and beautiful polished concrete floors are your thing, you will be in heaven. Steel railings give it a true industrial feel. Everything needed for your stay is well thought out and ready to be used. We hope you love our loft as much as we do! ***Pet Fee is $125***

Top guest favorite

A spacious living area is visible, featuring two recliner chairs facing a small circular table. A flat-screen TV is mounted on the wall in front, with light-colored walls and wooden flooring creating a welcoming ambiance. The kitchen area can be seen in the background.

Apartment in Ankeny

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 307 reviews

Spacious Private Apartment

Welcome to your retreat! This roomy walkout apartment with a private entrance offers a garden view, perfect for unwinding. The entire lower level is yours to enjoy. With easy interstate access, Ames and Des Moines are just a quick trip away. If you prefer to stay local, Ankeny offers great dining, shopping and entertainment options. We live upstairs, so you may hear us occasionally, but we strive to be as quiet as possible. We can't wait to host you and make your visit a memorable one!

Top guest favorite

A two-story house is shown with a light yellow exterior and a dark grey roof. There are multiple windows allowing natural light to enter. A driveway leads to a single-car garage on the right. Flower pots frame the entrance, and lush green grass surrounds the home.

Apartment in Des Moines

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 926 reviews

Unique "Little Italy" Apartment

Drive into the attached garage and go upstairs where you will find your very private entrance to a quiet, peaceful, and restful living. Located 1 mile from the downtown area on a street loaded with large Oak and Walnut trees. A huge back yard in which to stroll or barbecue. It is the top half of my house complete with it's own kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. My residence is the bottom half of the house. Lots of excellent restaurants nearby. Check out the "Guide to Restaurants".

Top guest favorite

An open living area showcases comfortable seating and a decorative ottoman on a dark rug. The kitchen is visible in the background, featuring wooden cabinetry and appliances. Walls are adorned with framed art, contributing to a well-appointed and welcoming space.

Guest suite in Pleasant Hill

5 out of 5 average rating, 182 reviews

Windy Pines Suite

Windy Pines offers a spacious bedroom with a comfortable king sized bed and large bathroom. The kitchen and living room are great. This clean, comfortable, & uncluttered space is a home away from home! You will be surrounded by beautiful greenery, in a safe neighborhood with accessible parking. Close to interstate 80 & 35, the Iowa State Fair Grounds, and Downtown Des Moines. WP is attached to our home but with its own separate outside entrance. Please send me any questions.

Top guest favorite

A spacious living area is characterized by a large, curved sectional sofa in a warm tone, centered around a geometric coffee table. Subtle wall art and a decorative vase add elegance, while an electric fireplace below a flat-screen TV provides a cozy focal point.

Barn in Des Moines

5 out of 5 average rating, 114 reviews

Luxury Barndominium perfect for larger groups

Welcome to The Lodge on 3rd - a massive 8000 sq ft Barndominum. Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa, this stunning retreat offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. With 3 spacious bedrooms and a large loft, there is plenty of room for you and your guests to unwind in style. This property is next door to Luxury Living on Third. airbnb.com/h/luxurylivingonthird These combined properties are ideal for family reunions, etc. ***$200 Pet Fee***

Guest favorite

A private bedroom features a spacious bed adorned with decorative pillows and a patterned comforter. Two bedside lamps stand on wooden nightstands, alongside a dresser with framed pictures. Natural light filters through a window, brightening the warm-toned wooden flooring.

Guest suite in Ankeny

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 242 reviews

Spacious One Bedroom apartment

This apartment features over 1,200 square feet of living space. Enjoy a full kitchen with granite countertops, full oven, full refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave oven. Spend time playing ping pong with family or enjoy popcorn and a movie. The location is situated in a quiet and safe neighborhood about 20 minutes from downtown Des Moines. Weather your planning a get-away with family or friends or a relaxing time alone we want our home to be your oasis.

Top guest favorite

A balcony view reveals a vibrant sunset casting shades of pink and orange across the sky. Silhouetted trees frame the scene, with distant buildings emerging in the background. A round glass table with colorful cushions offers a place to enjoy the view.

Home in Des Moines

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 167 reviews

Woodland Heights hist. district house on the hill.

Beautiful historic duplex house in the heart of woodland heights. Walking distance to downtown and next to Ingersoll avenue which is full of shops, bars, restaurants and more. Our place allows 2 parking spots on site with a side entrance to your upstairs Airbnb. The 800+ sq ft space includes a private kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living room, and balcony with views of downtown. Picnic table and grassy area below balcony can be used on those nice Iowa days.

Top guest favorite

A bright living room features a vivid blue couch and two green accent chairs surrounding a wooden coffee table. Shelves display various decorative items, and a flat-screen television is mounted on the wall. Natural light enters through a window adorned with textured curtains.

Bungalow in Des Moines

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 485 reviews

Etta’s Place - private 1b/1b - MidCentury Modern

We love our neighborhood and are excited to share it with you! We have partnered with local restaurants, bars, coffee shops, boutiques, & tea shops to offer exclusive discounts to guests of “Etta’s Place.” It’s our hope that this Airbnb allows you to enjoy the wonderful Ingersoll District. Des Moines is a great place to visit, lots of outdoor activities, amazing food, and unique experiences around every corner!