Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

Chances are you will never end up at Des Moines International Airport (DSM), but in the off chance that you do, I’ve got you covered! I’m a city boy, so I don’t get too excited about travelling to places like Iowa. I’m more of a Chicago, LA, DC, type of person. Des Moines, not so much. However, I traveled to Iowa for the first time in 2014 and a few things caught me by surprise.

Des Moines is a beautiful city. Now, I didn’t stay in Des Moines, I stayed about an hour from there in a place where the only dining option after 5pm was a Denny’s. Still, I drove around Des Moines on my way flying in and out of the state. And it was incredible. Below is the State Capitol. The people were also incredibly friendly. I was there for an event and everyone was so welcoming. In all fairness, though, our people tend to be welcoming everywhere in the world.

Now to the airport. The airport is a little quirky. I mean, it’s an “international” airport but I’m pretty sure they don’t have any international flights, at least none that I saw while I was there.

First, the cons.

Food is scarce, there’s only a handful of places. I hope you like pizza.

There are two stores, one inside of security and one outside of security. Nothing special.

WiFi is free for 45 minutes, then you have to pay. I know….

Now for the Pros!

Car rental companies are completely on site, which is always convenient, and all hotel shuttles pick you up right outside.

Getting in and out of the airport is really easy and straightforward. The airport is also close to the city.

Plenty of seating and places to plug into.

Security is really fast and best of all, everyone is really friendly. Friendliness goes a long way these days.

Final Rating

There are a few things I look for in airports. Accessibility to corresponding city, ease of transport within the airport, comfort (seating/plugs/shopping), food, and the wildcard. The wildcard is something unique that helps or hurts the airport.

The Des Moines International Airport receives a 7 out of 10. 

This was a toss up. It’s close to Des Moines and it’s really easy to get in and out of, those pros cancelled out the cons of not having a variety of food or coffee options. In the end, airport staff friendliness pushed it to a passing grade.