The Indianola center is approximately the area of Des Moines Metro Opera and the area of Simpson College.
Indianola enjoys four distinct seasons each year, which means it's always a great time to visit. Plan your trip for the winter, and you can expect lows around 10 degrees and up to 2 feet of snow throughout the season. Arrive in the spring, and you'll find highs in the mid-60s and frequent rainstorms. Visit in the summer, and you'll experience highs in the mid-80s, while a fall trip will typically mean highs in the upper 60s. May and June tend to be the rainiest months of the year, so pack an umbrella if you're planning a spring visit.
Summer is festival season in Indianola, and the area hosts a full calendar of events from June through August. In mid-June, mark your calendar for the Indianola Bike Fest, a family-friendly event with bike safety programs, bike races, and plenty of fun and games for the whole family. From late July through early August, the National Balloon Classic adds brilliant splashes of color to the sky as hundreds of hot air balloon pilots compete for the top prize. Book your hotel well in advance of this popular event to get your first pick of accommodations.
Want to avoid rack rate at all costs? Browse the best group rates and hotel discounts in Indianola.
Members of the military can get discounts at the Quality Inn in Indianola. This midrange hotel is ideal for families, as it has an indoor pool, free HBO and premium channels, and complimentary Wi-Fi. You'll love starting your day with the hotel's free breakfast, featuring eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, hot coffee, and much more. Pets are welcome at this Quality Inn, too.
AARP members can get low rates at the Baymont Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport. Conveniently located seconds from the airport, this midrange hotel offers spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a free airport shuttle. Book up to six meeting rooms for your next event, and inquire about special rates for groups traveling together.
AAA members can save at the Residence Inn Des Moines Downtown. This upscale hotel is ideal for extended stays in the Indianola area, as it has over 125 spacious rooms along with free breakfast every morning, an indoor pool for family fun, and an on-site gym to help you stay fit.
Searching for a balance between affordable prices and ample amenities? Get a glimpse of the best value options in Indianola.
It's so easy to settle into the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Airport, thanks to the spacious rooms and numerous amenities. You'll love the welcoming guest rooms, the free Wi-Fi, and the long list of extras. From the indoor pool and hot tub to the workout room and business center to the free deluxe continental breakfast, this midrange hotel has it all. Need to freshen up during your stay? Ask about the guest laundry facilities and same-day laundry service.
Whether you're attending an event at the hotel or you're in town to do some sightseeing on your own, the Ramada Hotel Des Moines Airport offers plenty of value. You'll love the numerous guest room options, including whirlpool suites, and standard amenities like microwaves, mini fridges, and free Wi-Fi. All guests can take advantage of the free airport shuttle and complimentary hot breakfast, too. With over 11,500 square feet of event space, this Ramada Hotel is the ideal host for small or medium events.
For large events that won't break the bank, you can't go wrong hosting at the Holiday Inn Des Moines Airport / Conference Center. This large hotel has over 200 guest rooms and 20 meeting rooms, totaling over 40,000 square feet of event space. Guests get access to a free airport shuttle, an indoor pool, a fitness center, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. When you're ready to explore the area, Indianola and Des Moines are just minutes away.
Whether you want to learn more about the Indianola area's history or you'd rather explore the great outdoors, this Iowa city has just what you're looking for. To find out more about the local area, stop by the Warren County Historical Society, which showcases the county's heritage through exhibits and community events.
Ballooning enthusiasts won't want to miss the chance to visit the National Balloon Museum and U.S. Ballooning Hall of Fame. This colorful museum hosts exhibits that tell the story of winning balloonists and unique balloons, and it's also home to the sport's hall of fame.
Want to get outside and stretch your legs? Take a stroll through Buxton Park Arboretum, Indianola's most beautiful park. Here, you'll find peaceful flower gardens, a colorful butterfly garden, a tranquil fountain, and a relaxing gazebo. Don't miss the public art or the wind sculptures either.
Visitors of all ages will also appreciate Pickard Park, which has activities for the whole family. Hit the bike trail, play a game on the 18-hole disc golf course, challenge your travel companions to a game on one of the 10 horseshoe courts, or enjoy the native plant life along the hiking trail.
Nearby, Lake Ahquabi State Park is another great spot for outdoor adventures. Walk, cycle, or cross-country ski along 6.5 miles of trails, swim or paddle in the lake, or relax and enjoy the fresh air in this popular state park.
Ready to plan your trip to the Des Moines area? Put Indianola at the top of your list and start designing your itinerary today.
Below are reviews of the city of Indianola, IA from an actual visitor's perspective.
I loved the morning breakfast!!!
Indianola is the little engine that wants to pull the big train. Our family has lived here for 6 generations.
Easy to find places of interest.
The area around the hotel is developing with modern convenience stores and shopping. Lots of dining options. Just a real clean, nice college town. People were Iowa nice for sure. We drove around in the country and there are lots of lakes and parks in the area. If you like farm country this is a great way to see it.
The Opera!
I feel safe.