Johnston Hotels

Johnston: A Hidden Gem Where River Serenity Meets Vibrant Community Spirit

Discover Johnston, Iowa, a charming city nestled along the river, offering a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Wander through scenic parks, enjoy leisurely riverside strolls and explore local shopping hubs for unique finds. Experience the welcoming community spirit and relish the city's vibrant local culture, making Johnston a delightful off-the-beaten-path destination for travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and urban charm.

Discover great hotels near Johnston

Johnston, Iowa offers a range of accommodations from friendly, cosy hotels to more luxurious star-rated stays. Many provide modern amenities, inviting rooms, and contemporary dining options, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed visit near Johnston. Here are some of the best hotels near Johnston that our travelers love:

1. Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moinesopens in new window: This 3.0-star hotel offers a comfortable and engaging experience for leisure travellers seeking a distinctive holiday experience. Guests enjoy ample amenities including a water park, arcade game room and child-friendly services, enhanced by a vibrant atmosphere. The property boasts an excellent array of features including express check-in and curated experiences, ensuring a smooth journey for those seeking a stylish stay. The positive ambience and focus on quality leave visitors with memorable moments, making it a welcoming retreat for travellers seeking comfort and modern design.
2. Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines - Merle Hay Roadopens in new window: This budget-friendly hotel presents a delightful retreat for leisure travellers, featuring spacious accommodations and a sumptuous breakfast that sets the tone for a satisfying stay. Guests are welcomed into an environment with curated experiences and high-end comfort, enhanced by features such as express check-in and airport transfers. The property’s modern design and welcoming atmosphere offer a distinctive, smooth journey for those who appreciate refined simplicity and a touch of luxury, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor.
3. Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Des Moines - Northwest by IHGopens in new window: This 3.0-star hotel, with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, caters to leisure travellers with a refined taste for unique experiences and stylish comfort. The property highlights include modern design, express check-in and a curated experience that elevates every moment. Guests enjoy a welcoming and well-appointed setting with features such as a high-end restaurant and a spa atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a sophisticated urban escape. The ambience is enhanced by thoughtful details and a focus on delivering a smooth, high-quality journey for every visitor.

Where to stay near Johnston

In West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, each offers unique charms: West Des Moines dazzles with shopping, theatre, and live music; Ankeny tempts with dining, festivals, and family-friendly entertainment; Urbandale impresses with a blend of history, recreation, and local culture. For first-time visitors to Johnston, Iowa, West Des Moines is best suited for a memorable stay.

1. West Des Moinesopens in new window: West Des Moines is a vibrant spot known for its excellent shopping, engaging cultural attractions, and top-notch dining. It’s a great base for travellers who enjoy a lively atmosphere with a mix of family-friendly spots and dynamic sports scenes. You can explore must-see places like West Glen Town Center and Valley Junction, along with a visit to The MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex to enjoy a variety of recreational activities. The area’s blend of river views and cultural venues, such as opera houses and live music events, makes it a well-rounded choice for visitors looking for both relaxation and entertainment.
2. Ankenyopens in new window: Ankeny offers a warm, welcoming environment with a strong focus on dining, shopping, and entertainment. It’s well-suited to those who appreciate a mix of local flavours and lively community events, including festivals and live music. Highlights include must-see attractions like Prairie Ridge Sports Complex, Adventureland, and Saylorville Lake, which provide a blend of outdoor fun and leisurely pursuits. The town’s friendly vibe and emphasis on family-friendly activities make it an appealing option for travellers seeking a balanced and engaging stay.
3. Urbandaleopens in new window: Urbandale is a charming place that offers a more relaxed, community-oriented experience with a focus on history, local dining, and intimate shopping experiences. The area is perfect for visitors who enjoy a quieter, more secluded setting. Its rich historical background and local festivals make it a unique destination to explore, with plenty of friendly people and local attractions that capture the essence of the region’s heritage and lifestyle.

Things to do in Johnston

Johnston, with its picturesque riverside setting, offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and vibrant community life. Stroll along scenic trails, enjoy leisurely boat rides, or dive into the local arts scene with lively festivals. With plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor exploration, it's a charming destination that invites adventure and relaxation alike.

• West Glen Town Centeropens in new window – Explore this townNeighbourhood where you can wander along the river and enjoy the local community vibe. Stroll through the streets, discover small local shops, and take in the scenic river views that make the area a pleasant stop during your visit.
• Valley Junctionopens in new window – Visit this delightful townNeighbourhood and experience the river-side charm. Enjoy a leisurely walk near the water, observe the blend of nature and urban life, and take a moment to relax by the river, which adds a serene backdrop to your exploration.
• Iowa State Fairgroundsopens in new window – Head over to the Iowa State Fairgrounds, a vibrant fairgroundShowGround known for its riverside setting. Here, you can enjoy local events and community gatherings, with the river offering a refreshing scene as you take part in the fair’s lively atmosphere.
• Adventurelandopens in new window – Discover Adventureland, an amusementPark that offers a variety of rides and attractions set against a riverside backdrop. Enjoy thrilling rides, fun games, and the excitement of an amusement park day out, all while the river enhances the scenic setting.
• Living History Farmsopens in new window – Visit Living History Farms, a farm that provides a glimpse into the agricultural heritage of the area. Explore the fields, learn about traditional farming methods, and enjoy the tranquillity of the riverside environment that adds to the authenticity of the experience.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Johnston

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Johnston is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are generally lower. To fully appreciate the town’s key landmarks and cultural attractions, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This budget-friendly duration allows visitors to explore family-friendly events, indulge in local dining, enjoy shopping experiences, and immerse themselves in the vibrant community spirit that Johnston has to offer. Additionally, guests can take in the historical significance of the area and partake in various festivals, making for a trip that is great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Johnston travellers may discover hotel deals by visiting the Dealsopens in new window section on Hotels.com, where discounted rates might be available near your travel date. You could find savings in the Last-Minute Deals area, and by enabling alerts, you'll be more likely to see flash promotions. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool via the app allows travellers to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you stay informed about any changes in price or availability.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could help you find better value for your stay in a Johnston hotel. If you're in search of something distinctive, boutique hotels might provide a more personalised experience and sometimes offer greater value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could help you find a more favourable rate.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Johnston's superb public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel located further out that remains well-connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Johnston

Johnston experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 21.4°F (-5.9°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.7°F (23.7°C). May is usually the wettest month. April, June, and July are the peak travel months in Johnston, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.