Surety Hotel

Surety Hotel, Des Moines: A Comprehensive Review of a Michelin Key Selected Property

The Surety Hotel in Des Moines, a Michelin Key selected property, consistently earns high praise for its unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury, offering guests a sophisticated and comfortable experience in the heart of downtown. Housed in a beautifully renovated 1913 Beaux-Arts building, formerly the Iowa Loan & Trust Company, the hotel thoughtfully integrates its rich past with contemporary design and amenities.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Surety Hotel is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing it as "beautiful," "clean," and "amazing." It holds an excellent average rating, reflecting high satisfaction with its aesthetics, comfort, and service. Many consider it their "new go-to hotel in Des Moines" due to its distinctive character and quality.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud the Surety Hotel for its elegant design, prime downtown location, and exceptional amenities.

• Design: The hotel masterfully combines mid-century modern elegance with historical elements, featuring restored hardwood floors, unique light fixtures, and local artwork. The lobby, with its curving metal structure and diverse metals, is particularly noted for its stunning visual appeal.
• Location: Its central downtown location is a significant draw, placing guests within walking distance of attractions like the Des Moines Civic Center, Science Center of Iowa, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and the vibrant Court Avenue.
• Amenities: Highlights include two on-site restaurants, a stylish bar/lounge, a 24-hour fitness center, an espresso bar, and a welcoming outdoor entertainment area. The hotel also offers complimentary coffee in the lobby and features products from local Des Moines makers.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Surety Hotel are described as beautiful, clean, comfortable, and "not cookie-cutter." They boast a sophisticated mid-century modern design with luxurious details such as Sferra linens, original works by local artists, and restored hardwood floors. Guests appreciate the spaciousness, blackout curtains, oversized windows offering city or courthouse views, and well-appointed bathrooms with plush towels and large showers. In-room amenities include mini-fridges stocked with local snacks and beverages, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary WiFi.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Surety Hotel receives high praise, particularly its on-site restaurant, Mulberry Street Tavern.

• Mulberry Street Tavern: This restaurant specializes in American cuisine and is celebrated for its exceedingly flavorful dishes, elegant ambiance, and knowledgeable service. It offers breakfast, brunch, and dinner in various settings, including traditional, modern, and romantic.
• Breakfast: An à la carte breakfast is available, though some guests have noted it can be slow and is an additional cost. The coffee bar also receives commendation for its flavorful offerings.
• Bar & Lounge: The hotel's bar and lounge are frequently highlighted for their great drinks, cocktails, and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Surety Hotel are consistently rated as friendly, helpful, and accommodating, with many guests commending their professionalism and genuine hospitality. The front desk team, in particular, often leaves a positive impression, with staff remembering guest names and being very gracious. However, a few isolated instances mention lackadaisical front desk service during check-in or when addressing issues.

6. Location & Accessibility

Located at 206 6th Avenue in downtown Des Moines, the Surety Hotel boasts an "ideal" and "perfect" location. It is across from the Polk County Courthouse and within easy walking distance to numerous downtown attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. The hotel is approximately 3.7 miles from Des Moines International Airport. Public transport, with a bus stop at 6th Ave & Walnut St, is also easily accessible.

7. Value & Pricing

While positioned as a refined stay, guests generally find the Surety Hotel to be a "very reasonable price" for the elevated experience it offers. Standard room rates can start from around $124, with the average price for a hotel room in Des Moines typically ranging between $151 and $200. Many guests feel the stylish accommodations, top-notch facilities, and unique ambiance justify the cost, providing excellent value for a luxury getaway.

8. Common Complaints

Despite overwhelming positive feedback, some recurring issues or criticisms include:

• Breakfast Service & Cost: Some guests have experienced slow breakfast service and expressed dissatisfaction with having to pay for breakfast, especially when compared to hotels offering complimentary hot breakfasts at lower price points.
• Parking Costs: The cost of parking is occasionally mentioned as a point of contention, with guests wishing it were included. Valet parking is available and noted as efficient.
• Noise: On occasion, noise from events, particularly wedding parties on lower floors, has been reported as an issue for rooms above.
• Lighting: A few guests have found the lighting in rooms and common areas to be fashionable but not always practical, or too bright in bathrooms without a nightlight option.

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