See all properties
Entire home

The Love Shack | Spacious Family Getaway • 5BR/3BA • 10 Mins to Downtown

Family-friendly vacation home in Windsor Heights with a water park

Photo gallery for The Love Shack | Spacious Family Getaway • 5BR/3BA • 10 Mins to Downtown

The Christmas tree is up and ready to host your family's presents!
Little Christmas decorations are placed around the home to make it feel cheery and bright!
Is your family ready to celebrate the Holidays together? Spend it at the Love Shack! Enjoy a hot coffee while you relax on the front porch with a comfy blanket after opening presents.
From the spring through fall, native plants blossom and bloom to provide stunning colors and food for the local pollinators.
The kitchen has plenty of counter space for multiple people to cook at once.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
5 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 123000 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Windsor Heights, IA
  • Place, Buccaneer Arena
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Merle Hay Mall
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Waveland Municipal Golf Course
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Airport, Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)
    ‪15 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 5

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 6

1 Double Sofa Bed

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2 - King Bedroom Ensuite

Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Office
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Love Shack | Spacious Family Getaway • 5BR/3BA • 10 Mins to Downtown

Welcome to The Love Shack — your go-to getaway in the heart of Windsor Heights, one of Des Moines’ safest and most vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you’re gathering family, celebrating with friends, or just needing a change of scene, this 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom retreat was made for connection, comfort, and a little bit of fun.

Step inside and feel the good vibes right away. There’s room for everyone — two cozy living rooms, plush king and queen beds, and plenty of spots to curl up or stretch out. You’ll find all the comforts of home (and then some): fast Wi-Fi, central heating and A/C, a washer and dryer, hairdryer, iron, and everything you need for an easy, effortless stay.

Each bathroom feels like a mini spa moment — from a deep jetted tub that’s perfect for bubble baths to bright walk-in showers that’ll start your day right.

Out back, the magic continues. Fire up the BBQ under the pergola, sip something cold, and enjoy the lush garden filled with native plants. Or head downstairs for some laughs — the dartboard, kitchenette, and costume closet make it the perfect hangout zone for game nights and silly photo ops.

Just 10 minutes from downtown Des Moines, you’ll have quick access to the best restaurants, breweries, and local gems — but you might find yourself loving your time at home just as much.

Whether it’s family time, a reunion, or a weekend escape, The Love Shack is where everyone can relax, reconnect, and feel right at home. Come for the comfort, stay for the memories — and fall in love with Des Moines all over again. 💖
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Front View
Walnut Place a Charming Home in Historic Valley Junction area of West Des Moines
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (180 reviews)
Walnut Place a Charming Home in Historic Valley Junction area of West Des Moines

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 50 lbs per pet (limit one pet total)
Dogs less than 50 lbs per pet Pet friendly
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Please put all used towels in the bathtubs. Please do not start any laundry - our cleaners will take care of that!
Please place all dirty dishes in the dishwasher and run it before you leave. Thank you for assisting us in keeping The Love Shack clean and tidy!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
📄 Guest must sign a House Rules Form. 💳 $250 refundable credit card hold. 🎂 Minimum booking age is 21+.
🕒 Form due within 48 hrs of booking (or before check-in info is sent for last-minute stays).
🚭 No smoking/vaping. 🐾 Max 2 pets ($50/pet/stay). 🎉 No parties/events. 🌙 Quiet Hours: 11PM–6AM.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Property # 4199203

We should mention

A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

About the neighborhood

Windsor Heights

Located in Windsor Heights, this vacation home is near theme parks. Val Air Ballroom and Des Moines Community Playhouse are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Iowa State Fairgrounds and Living History Farms. Traveling with kids? Consider Clive Aquatic Center and Pump It Up. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Vacation Homes in Des MoinesOpens in a new window
Map
Windsor Heights, IA

What's nearby

  • Buccaneer Arena - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Merle Hay Mall - 4 min drive - 2.4 km
  • Waveland Municipal Golf Course - 4 min drive - 3.6 km
  • Casey's Center - 9 min drive - 10.8 km
  • Jordan Creek Town Center - 10 min drive - 13.1 km

Getting around

  • Des Moines International Airport (DSM) - 25 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Casey’s - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪Wasabi Urbandale - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Simon's - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪El Michoacano - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Love Shack | Spacious Family Getaway • 5BR/3BA • 10 Mins to Downtown pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 50 lbs per pet.

How much does it cost to stay at The Love Shack | Spacious Family Getaway • 5BR/3BA • 10 Mins to Downtown?

As of Dec 24, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Love Shack | Spacious Family Getaway • 5BR/3BA • 10 Mins to Downtown on Dec 29, 2025 start from $503.36, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Love Shack | Spacious Family Getaway • 5BR/3BA • 10 Mins to Downtown?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Love Shack | Spacious Family Getaway • 5BR/3BA • 10 Mins to Downtown?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The Love Shack | Spacious Family Getaway • 5BR/3BA • 10 Mins to Downtown located?

This family-friendly Windsor Heights vacation home is within 2 mi (3 km) of Buccaneer Arena, Merle Hay Mall, and Windsor Heights Dog Park. Valley West Mall and Waveland Municipal Golf Course are also within 3 mi (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 14 out of 14 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 14 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 14 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 14 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 14 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

MIKE G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean home exactly as promoted with exceptionally accommodating hosts.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kaity S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The hosts were very responsive to questions. Everyone had a great time! The kids really enjoyed the costume closet and the “swimming pool” (big bathtub)
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ashley L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had amazing time! This property was clean and very cozy! We loved taking naps on the couches, the coffee station, and the costume closet. It was the perfect experience for our group- a cast of actors in a touring play in Des Moines for the week.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

bonnie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The kitchen had everything we could possibly need. It was a comfortable place for friends to gather, and we had fun with the costume closet.The hosts were very accommodating to whatever we might need. We would definitely stay there again.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very comfortable, felt right at home. Kitchen and all rooms very well furnished! TIFF was attentive & helpful!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Richard T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay very much. The location was central to everything we did. The house was very clean and bigger than we thought it would be. Kitchen utensils and cookware were provided and we really enjoyed the game area! I would highly recommend this rental. Will definitely be booking this location for our next visit.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was the perfect house for a larger group. The house had a little of everything we needed, and we loved all the details they thought of. I would highly recommend
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mary H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lots of room in house. Large dining room for meals. Kitchen had everything you could need for meals. Outdoor areanice and relaxing. Bbq grill.Enjoyed our stay very much.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bret w.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was set up well for a large family gathering. We had many crock pots plugged in and going at once plus other cooking with no issues. Plenty of room to spread out for gages and crafts. Our host was amazing assisting with anything with needed. Would recommend for large gathering
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jenna D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our stay was great. It fit the whole family. We were close to other relatives and things to do. The welcome email and Vrbo had different check in and check out times so I would recommend fixing that but it didn't effect our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Aaron C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wedding Central

Great house for our family to stay and gather between weddings events! Easy to get to and had lots of space to hang out.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great home!

We enjoyed our stay at the "Love Shack". My family and I traveled to Des Moines for a fastpitch softball tournament. We enjoyed our stay. The tournament was hot but the air conditioner was cold and felt great when we arrived. Everything was exactly as described. The dow stairs area was a very cool place to hang out. We would definitely stay here again if we are ever back in the area.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gail F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Babes loved EVERYTHING about the Love Shack. Tiffany is an amazing host and very easy to communicate with - so responsive to requests and questions! I think she is quite possibly the best VRBO host I’ve worked with. The property is inviting and just joyful. The neighborhood is lovely and safe! Next door neighbors even offered us candy and goodies! How fun is that?! Close to everything we wanted to see! Definitely would recommend. And Des Moines is a fantastic city!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rob A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fun place to stay close to Drake and Downtown

This house is ridiculous, but in a good and fun way. We were in town with family to celebrate our daughter's graduation from Drake and this house was an excellent fit for our group. We only had seven people, but there is easily room to sleep 10 comfortably. We didn't use the kitchen, but the dining room table was great for a game of Five Crowns and we played a few games of darts in the game room downstairs.Location wise, it was a quick and easy drive from the house to both Drake and downtown Des Moines. West Des Moines was easy to get to as well.Overall, we really enjoyed our stay and I wouldn't hesitate to stay here again if we are back with a large group.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

About the host

Hosted by Tiffany Junge

Host profile image
We’re Tiff + Wilky — a DIY dream team with big hearts, calloused hands, and a passion for creating homes with soul.

What started with The Love Shack (Tiff’s first home and ultimate fixer-upper adventure) has grown into a small but mighty hosting company right here in Des Moines, Iowa. Together, we manage a mix of short-term and mid-term rentals designed for comfort, connection, and a little Midwest magic.

Tiff is a local realtor and real estate investor passionate about helping others build generational wealth through property ownership. Wilky brings years of hands-on experience in rope access and construction, turning our creative ideas into real, livable spaces.

We believe hosting is about more than beds and Wi-Fi — it’s about helping people feel connected and cared for while they’re away from home. Ask us for local restaurant or brewery recommendations, or where to find the best coffee and hidden gems — we love showing off this community we call home.

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback