The Johnston center point is approximately 5 miles northwest of Broadlawns Medical Center and 5 miles west of Zoo Lounge.
Johnston enjoys its best weather from early June to mid-September. Summer days are warm but rarely hot, with average daily temperatures in the low to mid-80s. Conditions can be humid, though, and showers are common. Summer is also the most popular choice for tourists, so hotel prices typically rise to their highest levels.
If you can be patient, you'll usually get a better deal and enjoy slightly better weather in September. Daily temperatures typically sit in the mid-70s, perfect for hiking the trails and picnicking. Without the summer tourists inflating accommodation prices, fall has lower hotel rates too.
Johnston isn't made for winter sports, so most travelers don't want to brave the freezing, windy conditions for a vacation here from December to February. The accommodation prices, which fall to their lowest levels after the festive season, are really the only draw for a winter getaway.
Temperatures in late spring can also be pleasant, but rainfall is common during this time of year. Research the weather before your intended departure to see whether the showers will stay away.
Selected travelers can save money by staying at some of the best-known hotels in the Johnston area. Present your valid identification at the check-in desk to secure your discounted rate.
Quality Inn in nearby Des Moines discounts rates for AAA and CAA auto club members, seniors and AARP members, federal and state government workers, military personnel, and people in large traveling groups needing 10 or more rooms. This pet-friendly hotel is conveniently located close to local highways and restaurants. You won't have to walk for breakfast, though, as Quality Inn serves complimentary waffles, bagels, fresh fruit, and other treats each morning. Wi-Fi and weekday newspapers are also free for guests. The rooms are a little dated, but quality features like an indoor pool and business center help guests see value.
Holiday Inn & Suites Des Moines-Northwest cuts its regular rates for AAA and CAA auto club members, Entertainment Card holders, seniors, federal and state government employees, and military personnel. These discounts make this pet-friendly, kid-friendly hotel a great value for traveling families. Kids always stay free, and up to four kids 11 and under eat free at the on-site restaurant, Bennigan's Grille and Tavern, at any time. A handicap-accessible indoor swimming pool lets all guests enjoy splashing about. There's cable TV in the fitness center to keep you motivated during your workouts.
Guests rave about the friendly service and great facilities at the following mid-priced hotels. When you want to see value for money, these local accommodation providers are excellent options.
Americinn Hotel & Suites Johnston Des Moines has clean, spacious standard guest rooms and suites, all featuring high-definition TVs with cable channels, free Wi-Fi access, mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffee- and tea-making facilities for your caffeine fix. Pet-friendly rooms are also available for a small extra fee. Refuel each morning with waffles, eggs, fresh fruit, and other treats at the free breakfast bar. This complimentary meal provides the energy you need for sightseeing or swimming laps in the hotel's indoor pool.
Towneplace Suites Des Moines – Urbandale/Johnston is an all-suites hotel, so it's a smart choice for traveling families and anyone enjoying an extended getaway. Those suites have all the comforts of home, including full-sized kitchens, large workspaces, and separate living and sleeping spaces. Towneplace Suites is minutes from local restaurants, but it has breakfast covered with a complimentary buffet available each morning. The hotel also has its own barbecue and picnic area, a great alternative to eating out or in your hotel room during warm weather. With an indoor pool on-site, you don't need to wait for summer to go swimming.
No matter how beautiful your hotel room is, you probably won't want to spend your time in Johnston indoors. This Iowa suburb has great recreational facilities encouraging you to have fun outside.
After a recent $5.4-million makeover, Terra Park is one of the best places to have fun in Johnston. New additions include an 8-acre lake for fishing, playgrounds for the kids, and hard and soft trails. An open-air amphitheater and grassy lawn will host concerts and other events during warm weather.
Dewey Park encourages children of all ages and abilities to have fun. This ADA-accessible facility has slides and climbers for inquisitive youngsters and a large play structure for the bigger kids. Bring a ball to enjoy a game on the soccer field. Nature lovers will appreciate the park's arboretum, home to more than 50 species including oaks, lindens, and crabapple trees.
Walnut Ridge Recreation Area is also great fun for families. It sits on the western side of Saylorville Lake, a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing for catfish, walleye, and largemouth bass. For a different kind of sporting challenge, try your luck on the 18-hole Walnut Ridge Disc Golf Course. Neal Smith Trail is a paved path perfect for jogging, cycling, and skating. Keep your eyes peeled for the turkeys, pheasants, white-tailed deer, and other animals that call Walnut Ridge Recreation Area home.
Johnston is a natural playground with a range of recreational facilities close to Des Moines. Whether you stay within the city limits or enjoy frequent trips to the capital, Johnston makes an excellent choice for your next getaway.
Below are reviews of the city of Johnston, IA from an actual visitor's perspective.
Love the decor and everyone was super!
Easy access to interstate.
This hotel is in a great location to visit the many attractions in the city.
This hotel is in a great location to visit the many attractions in the city.