Entire home

Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly

Urbandale vacation home with kitchen

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Photo gallery for Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly

A modern living room with a grey sofa, a coffee table, and a view of the outdoors.
A house with a front porch, a small wooden bench, potted plants, and a stone pathway leading to the door.
A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a dishwasher, and a dining area with wicker chairs.
A bedroom with a wooden floor, a bed with a green and white bedspread, two bedside tables with lamps, and a ceiling fan.
A dining area with a white table, woven placemats, wicker chairs, and a chandelier.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms3 bathrooms167 sq m

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View in a map
Urbandale, IA
  • Place, Merle Hay Mall
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Drake University
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Casey's Center
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Airport, Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)
    ‪19 min drive‬

Room options

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About the area

Urbandale

In Urbandale .You'll find Merle Hay Mall and Buccaneer Arena within 3 miles (5 km) of this vacation home. Waveland Municipal Golf Course and IHS-Iowa Health Systems are also within 6 miles (10 km).

What's nearby

  • Merle Hay Mall - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Drake University - 9 min drive - 6.7 km
  • Iowa Events Center - 11 min drive - 12.5 km
  • Casey's Center - 12 min drive - 12.8 km
  • Jordan Creek Town Center - 14 min drive - 17.7 km

Getting around

  • Des Moines International Airport (DSM) - 30 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪7 Brew Coffee - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Flix Brewhouse - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬16 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly

You’ll love this beautifully renovated 4-bedroom home tucked into a quiet Urbandale area, just minutes from everything Des Moines has to offer. Four queen beds comfortably accommodate up to 8 overnight guests across two floors. A private lower-level suite gives families or groups their own space to spread out. The home is best suited for 8 or fewer guests to ensure a comfortable stay for everyone. Guests planning larger gatherings or events may find another property better suited for their needs.

A fully equipped kitchen, dedicated workspace, and pet-friendly backyard round out an easy, comfortable stay. A $125 per-stay pet fee applies. Self check-in and a smooth arrival make settling in effortless. Welcome home.

The space
Living Area: Bright, Open, and Made for Gathering
Warm, uncluttered, and quietly stylish… this is Scandinavian-inspired living done right. Step into a freshly renovated main level, where natural light and modern finishes set the tone for your stay. Enjoy the 54” smart TV, and just enough space to relax and unwind.

Kitchen & Dining: Stocked and Ready!
The fully equipped kitchen has everything you need to cook, snack, or caffeinate in style. A dedicated coffee bar sets the tone each morning, and the kitchen is stocked with cookware, appliances, and all the essentials for everything from a quick breakfast to a full family dinner. Oh… and yes, we have wine glasses and a corkscrew. The dining table seats 6 comfortably, with kid-friendly seating available for the little ones in the group.

Lower-Level Suite: A Floor of Their Own
Descend to the lower level and you’ll find an open studio-style suite that feels like its own retreat. Two queen beds anchor the open sleeping area, complemented by a full leather seating family room with a second 54” smart TV, a small dining nook for 4 with beverage fridge, and a full bath featuring a rain shower. A full-sized washer and dryer are also on this level, perfect for extended stays or freshening up mid-trip. Whether it’s teens who want their own space, grandparents who appreciate the quiet, or a second family group sharing the house, this floor delivers. Please note, the home has the character of a classic build, including hard wood floors that carry sound between levels. We provide a white noise machine and fans on the lower level for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Bedrooms: Restful in Every Room
The main level offers two private bedrooms, each with a queen bed, brand-new mattresses, soft linens, and calming tones. Ample storage and good natural light make every room feel comfortable and restful. With 2.5 baths thoughtfully distributed throughout the home, guests have comfortable space to settle in and unwind.

Work & Stay: For Those Who Need Both
A dedicated workspace with strong fibre optic WiFi makes The Dahl House equally suited for a working professional on an extended stay or a parent catching up on emails while the family sleeps in. High-speed internet throughout keeps everyone connected.

Outdoor Space: Room to Roam
There’s something special about that first cup of coffee on an east-facing deck, the morning sun warming your face, the area still quiet as the birds begin chirping, the day not yet begun. The back deck delivers exactly that and comes naturally shaded by evening for a relaxed wind-down after a full day. Step into the spacious backyard for a game of catch, dog zoomies, or simply some fresh air. Doggie bags are stocked on the deck, and you’re just minutes from Des Moines’ best walking paths and dog-friendly parks. Please note the yard is not fully fenced.

Area: Quiet Streets, Central Location
Step into the quaint charm of Urbandale’s area. A tranquil residential area is the perfect backdrop for a relaxing stay, with mature trees lining the streets and a friendly community vibe. Step out to explore the extensive walking and biking trails, or take a short drive to discover local dining and shopping hotspots. Easy access to I-235 and I-80 puts all of Des Moines within reach. Drake University, downtown DSM, the Iowa State Fairgrounds, Glen Oaks Country Club, Dinks Pickleball, and The RecPlex are all a short drive away. Here, you’re centrally located to enjoy the best of the Des Moines area while returning to your peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle. Whether you’re here for leisure or business, our area provides a convenient and serene base for your adventures.

Guest access
Guests have private access to the home during their stay.

The garage is reserved for owner use. Driveway parking for up to 3 vehicles included.

Self-check-in is available via front door smart lock. There are three steps leading to the entrance with a handrail.

One interior storage closet inside the home is reserved for owner use and will remain locked. All other areas are accessible during your stay.

Other things to note
The Dahl House is a pet-friendly home where your pups are genuinely welcome! We've thought of the details so you and your fury travel companion can settle in and relax together.

Doggie bags are stocked on the back deck, and you're just minutes from some of Des Moines' best walking paths and dog-friendly parks. Don't miss Paws & Pints, the Ulti-mutt canine retreat & human social park. We have a spacious back yard for ball tossing and zoomies, but please note the yard is not entirely fenced in.

A $125 pet fee applies per visit. Up to 2 dogs under 50 lbs welcome. We do ask that dogs are crated when left home alone.
No cats please.

We can't wait to host your family pack!

Maximum overnight occupancy: 6 guests total, including children. No unregistered overnight guests permitted without prior host approval.

Two exterior security cameras monitor the front entry/driveway and rear entry. Outward facing only, no interior cameras. A Minut device monitors noise levels and smoke only; no audio or video recording inside the home.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • 3 steps to reach entrance
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • No elevator
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Note from host: No smoking allowed at this property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo

Things to do

  • Theme park nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit

General

  • Unit size: 1,800 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Pick up and dispose of any pet waste in the yard
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Clean up dog waste in the yard. No excessive barking. Guests are responsible for any pet-related damage or extra cleaning fees.
Stays of 28 days or longer require a signed rental agreement within 24-48 hours of booking reservation. No Smoking/vaping.
If smoking is detected indoors, an additional cleaning fee may be charged to cover the extra cleaning and odour removal required.

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 2 (weight limit: 50 lbs per pet)
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Note from host: Pets are allowed at this property

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Children are welcome at this property

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking allowed at this property

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
Long-term renters welcome
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 and a first aid kit
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
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. 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. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. Long-term renters welcome. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit in each accommodation.

Property is also known as

368240e4-c161-49f8-8f60-bc15c7d6ef8d

Frequently asked questions

How close is Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly to the airport?

This vacation home is 10.9 mi (30-min drive) away from the Des Moines International Airport (DSM) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.

Does Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly offer free breakfast?

This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly?

No, there is no casino at this vacation home, but Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino (17-min drive) is nearby.

What time is check-in at Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly?

Free parking is not available at this vacation home.

Does Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly have a pool?

This vacation home does not have a pool.

Does Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this vacation home.

How close is Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly to downtown Urbandale?

This vacation home is 0.6 mi away from Urbandale.

Scandinavian Retreat • Central location • Dog Friendly Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 14 out of 15 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 15 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 15 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Clean, good location
Stayed 21 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent house, host thought of everything to make our stay conformable- right down to the Q-tips and dryer sheets. Highly recommend- very cozy and great beds too.
Stayed 9 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
The home felt exceptionally clean and welcoming from the moment we arrived. The ballon’s and cookies were a great touch. The patio—complete with a cozy fireplace—was a highlight. The host communicated wonderfully and answered all questions promptly. Everything was well maintained and thoughtfully decorated.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay very much. We were coming to help with a sick family member. It was in a convenient location to get around town. The house was so cozy and clean. It had everything we needed for our stay and more! The host was very easy to communicate with and very flexible.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The most beautiful VRBO we have ever stayed at. This property was comfortable, clean, beautiful, charming and worked so perfectly for our family. We felt like we stepped onto an HGTV set. Everything was new and clean and coordinating. Some rentals feel like garage sale finds thrown together, not this one!! Our grown daughter wanted to move in. Our grandchildren never wanted to leave.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a cute place! The decor was fantastic and gave the whole home a cozy, welcoming vibe. The beds were super comfy, and the location couldn’t have been better—close to all of our planned events. Hosts were very attentive. The neighborhood felt safe and quiet making it the perfect home base for our stay. Highly recommend!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great house with great accommodations- all newly renovated and lovely decor. Beds were comfortable and living spaces were great. My dog loved the backyard to run and fetch. I would highly recommend this home.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Overall this was a great place to stay. Newly remodeled and looks great. The lower level living space was very nice and comfortable. The upstairs and downstairs TVs were user friendly for logging into personal streaming services. Beds were comfortable, perfect storage and shelving. We did not bring children or pets but there were convenient amenities if you did. Easy access to get into the house. The patio had comfortable furniture and a pleasant ambiance. Suggestions for an even better experience:Main floor shower...could not figure out how to turn on.1st floor half bath...would be nice to have towel bar.1st level living room furniture was uncomfortable.Yes, we would consider staying there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was exceptionally clean and was nicely furnished and appointed throughout.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A great place to stay
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
Clean
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2026