Archer Motel, Des Moines

My family's stayed at the Archer every Iowa State Fair (where it's very closely located to) for the last 10 years. Years before that it was very popular with the horse show people because of it's unmatched value and ease to park trailers as well as proximity to the highway. The manager Ken and his family have tirelessly operated the motel for many years and they have always been extremely accommodating for us. The rooms are basic but clean; windows are screened and can open to access fresh air which alot of newer motels can't do. The pool is a pleasant respite that's well maintained and not over clorinated. We spend the entire period of the fair each year there and love it. We've stayed in Chicago's Hilton and Regency as well as other 5 star hotels but this motel is truly a time capsule--a throwback to the basic good value/good night's sleep sought on the road, complete with blinking (sometime all lit!) neon signs that have beckoned the weary for decades. I am NOT affiliated with the motel, but it has become a basic fabric for my family's yearly fair experience that we all look forward to. LOVE this place!

Things we liked about the Archer: low cost (coupon available in travel books), lots of TV channels, swimming pool, park at your door, pet friendly, clean bathroom, owner and staff friendly and helpful, wireless internet, big room (we had a sofa, coffee table, bed, desk.) This is an old hotel that has been well maintained. I would prefer to sleep on a better mattress, but for a short stay, the Archer is okay. The TV is small, but it has many many channels to choose from. The wireless internet was a bit slow, but it worked the entire time we were there. This is a good choice for those that want to save a few bucks or prefer to stay in older - family owned and operated motels. We would definately stay there again

This is a very old motel that has never been updated. However, I give the owner credit for maintenance. The sheets and towels were clean, the shower tiles, and toilet were clean, the carpet had been replaced at some point. However, you really are getting what you pay for. The hotel is situated between two fairly busy roads and a highway so there is a fair amount of traffic noise. There were three beds in our room but they were probably 30 or more years old and creaked so loudly that each time someone in the room rolled over the others would wake. We didn't sleep well. Also, the moment we walked in the room we were overwhelmed by strong mildew smell. We wished we had looked a bit more before settling on the Archer Motel.

We were looking for a hotel in Des Moins and decided on The Archer Motel. The rooms are quite large. If you plan I bringing your Laptop Computer, like i did, make sure you ask for the wireless internet. Because they have a password. I don't know if this is in all the rooms but our room had 2 quite large beds. Very nice place.

My family & I "stumbled" upon this family owned Motel when we missed our turn. There was a travel warning due to a rain/ice storm. The owner let us know there was no advised travel, so we decided to stay the night. Because we had bad experiences with Hotels on our trip, he allowed us to check out the room before renting. It was large, nice, & clean. A bit dated, but it brought back good memories of when I was a child & we stayed in Motels. The Owner was more than accomidating, he was very helpful!! We liked we could back right up to the overhang, to our room door & we never got wet while unloading our luggage. Motel had Great location, excellant price, quiet area, good nights sleep. We are thankful the owner let us know about the advisery, the next morning we came upon alot of rolled vehicles, jack knifed semi's, & accidents. Thinking that could have been us. Thank goodness for the family owned Motel, that gave us a warm, safe place to stay. I would definately stay again!!

The room was large you didn't feel like you were in a sardine can.The people were great and you can beat the price.It is close to alot of venuues you might want to see.Found this motel on roomsaver.I prefer to stay at this older motel than a new fancy one that makes you feel like you are stuck in a boxy room.We travel alot to do trade shows and will stay here again when we are in the area.

I was sent to Des Moines on short notice and happened to stop at The Archer. I was so pleased. While in Des Monines a snow/ice storm rolled in!!!!! The staff took me under their wings making sure my needs met, I look forward to my next trip to Des Moines.

Lowest price and great personnel. Great location from Prarrie Meadows or Adventureland - right down the street. Lots of close places to eat. Excellent low cost hotel.