Axel's take: 7.1/10
Useful for a budget overnight, but friendly staff cannot fully offset uneven upkeep. A no-frills budget chain hotel off I-80 and I-35, scored for what it is.
This is a no-frills budget chain hotel near I-80 and I-35, not a polished full-service three-star. We'd consider it for a short, car-based stay: free parking, breakfast and an indoor pool cover the basics, while Expedia and Tripadvisor guests repeatedly praise helpful staff. Many recent Expedia reviewers describe clean, comfortable rooms, making it a reasonable overnight option for travelers who prioritize practicality over appearance.
The trade-off is inconsistent upkeep. Reviews across both sites mention aging furnishings, equipment problems and occasional musty or smoky rooms; some recent guests also report bathroom mold or stained bedding, although positive cleanliness reports remain more common on Expedia. That makes it harder to recommend for a longer stay. Expedia lists no elevator, so confirm a ground-floor room if stairs are difficult. We'd skip it if reliably fresh rooms or easy upstairs access are essential.
-
Best for: budget-conscious road-trippers; short visits to Johnston with a car; travelers bringing a dog
-
Watch out for: uneven room condition and housekeeping; no elevator listed; entrance tucked between car dealerships
-
Location: Convenient interstate access, but tucked between car dealerships rather than in a walkable downtown setting.
-
Rooms: Basic rooms with microwaves and mini-fridges; recurring reports of worn furnishings and maintenance issues.
-
Cleanliness: Many recent guests praise clean rooms, but mold, odors and bedding complaints make consistency a concern.
-
Service: Helpful, friendly staff are a recurring strength, though some guests report waits or limited staffing.
-
Amenities: Free breakfast, WiFi and parking, plus a heated indoor pool, fitness center and guest laundry.
-
Fees and surprises: Dogs incur a fee; early check-in and late checkout may cost extra; confirm ground-floor availability.
Axel's opinion of AmericInn by Wyndham Johnston Des Moines, from the hotel's website and recent guest reviews. Sources: Hotel website · Expedia · Tripadvisor · Booking.com. Reviewed Oct 10, 2026.