DES MOINES, Iowa – Today, the newly constructed Hilton Des Moines Downtown opens its doors as the only hotel directly connected to the Iowa Events Center, which comprises a world-class convention center and the Wells Fargo arena. The opening of this landmark hotel will further attract large-scale meetings and events to Des Moines and in turn, increase economic activity throughout the community.
"As the first Hilton Hotels & Resorts property in the city, we look forward to introducing the brand's world-renowned hospitality to Des Moines and fully integrating into the fabric of the community," said Dave Marr, senior vice president and global head, full service brands, Hilton. "Des Moines has many development projects in the works and we know this hotel will play a critical role in supporting the influx of travelers expected to the city."
Reflecting Des Moines' growing status as one of the nation's leading technology hubs, the hotel was designed to celebrate both the agricultural and technological influences of the city. Hilton Des Moines Downtown features windows that are arranged in a binary pattern to resemble barcodes, custom-designed, circuit board-inspired carpets and light fixtures that playfully mimic the appearance of wiring. The tech-centric hotel offers digital check-in, USB ports throughout its vibrant lobby and a tech lounge with complimentary computers and internet. As a nod to the city's agricultural roots, the precast panels on the side of the hotel were inspired by wheat, and the windows and outside façade by corn and soybean rows. The overall aesthetic pulls colors from its agricultural surroundings.
"I'm thrilled to celebrate the opening of Hilton Des Moines Downtown with my colleagues, city leaders and the many people who have helped make this day possible," said Matt Felling, general manager, Hilton Des Moines Downtown. "We appreciate the vision of community leaders and the dedication of the Weitz construction team who made it possible for us to open this landmark hotel ahead of schedule. The 150 Team Members at Hilton Des Moines Downtown are eager to welcome the thousands of new visitors to our city with our signature service and dedication to providing unparalleled travel experiences."
Hilton Des Moines Downtown has 14,000 square feet of meeting space, including a 10,000 square-foot ballroom that opens onto an idyllic outdoor terrace. All meeting space is located on the same floor, allowing for easy flow among the spaces for multi-function meetings and events. The property is the only hotel in downtown Des Moines that features natural light in every meeting room. Each space pulls through the tech-centric theme of the hotel, featuring technology including touch-screen navigation signage, smart window lighting and Click Share technology in boardrooms.
As part of the Des Moines Skywalk system, the hotel provides a direct connection to the Iowa Events Center, offering the most convenient accommodation option for convention attendees. Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, the hotel is also situated near the airport and surrounded by some of the city's most impressive dining options, major businesses and downtown attractions like the Iowa State Capitol, Pappajohn Sculpture Park and the city's renowned Farmer's Market.
"Hilton Des Moines Downtown will attract even more people and events to central Iowa," said Greg Edwards, President & CEO, Catch Des Moines. "The fact that the hotel is connected and right next door to the Iowa Events Center is a game changer for us in luring new conventions, sporting events and trade shows to the metro. One of the most powerful elements of success in a community is positive momentum – prior to opening the doors of the hotel, the Catch Des Moines team has already booked over 23 new conventions, conferences and sporting events. These events will have an economic impact of nearly $73 million ($72,942,217)."
The hotel will also be home to Park Street Kitchen, a modern restaurant featuring dishes created with locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients and Des Moines' only outdoor, patio fireplace. The restaurant will be led by Chef Nick Marino, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America who joins the team from his previous position at Hilton's acclaimed Waldorf Astoria Chicago.
Hilton Des Moines Downtown is located at 435 Park Street, Des Moines, Iowa. For more information or reservations, call +1 515-241-1456 or visit Hilton.com.
Connect with Hilton Des Moines Downtown on Facebook at @HiltonDesMoinesDowntown and online at Hiltondesmoinesdowntown.com.
