Unwind in this exquisite, book-themed retreat where every chapter of your stay is filled with comfort, relaxation, and entertainment. Whether you're hosting a family reunion, wedding party, work travel, a reading retreat, or just looking for a cozy getaway, Once Upon a Stay is the perfect backdrop for your story.(This home is under new management! We are experienced hosts with a great track record with guests, just switching up how we do things this year - we look forward to hosting you!)Thoughtfully designed with soft pastel hues, literary-inspired décor, and cozy nooks, Once Upon a Stay is a haven for book lovers and those looking for a unique, relaxing escape.Home Highlights:- Event-Ready: Perfect for special events like family reunions, weddings, and corporate retreats with spacious gathering areas.- Fully Equipped Kitchen: Has all you need for preparing meals or hosting a dinner party, stocked with all the essentials.- Living Areas: The open living areas offer comfortable seating, board games, and a library of books to lose yourself in. Let the natural light and luxurious finishes create a space you’ll never want to leave.- Outdoor Spaces: Relax in the backyard, complete with covered dining table, outdoor furniture, a BBQ grill, and plenty of room for storytelling around the fire or sipping wine on the patio.- Work-Friendly: A peaceful office space with a desk or comfy chairs, for those mixing business with pleasure.- Furry Friends Welcome: With a dog door leading to a fenced backyard, your pets can roam freely and enjoy the stay just as much as you do. ($75 non-refundable pet fee; max of 2 pets).- Electric Car Charging Station: Keep your EV charged and ready to go.- Garage Parking: 2 spaces in the garage, including 1 electric vehicle charger, plus additional free driveway/street parking.Nearby Attractions:Located in the heart of Urbandale, Once Upon a Stay is close to parks, trendy cafes, and shops, offering both city convenience and quiet retreat vibes. You’re also a short drive from popular attractions like:- Kollmorgen Park - 2 minute drive- Barrett Boesen Park - 4 minute drive- Horizon's Ridge Park - 4 minute drive- Central Standard - 8 minute drive- Kue'd Smokehouse - 8 minute drive- Waukee Triumph Park - 8 minute drive- Mickey's Irish Pub - 9 minute drive- Kinship Brewing - 11 minute drive- Waukee Ice Cream Shoppe - 12 minute drive- The Brenton Arboretum - 16 minute drive- Raccoon River Park - 19 minute drive- Paws and Pints - 20 minute drive- Downtown Des Moines - 20 minute drive- Wells Fargo Arena - 20 minute drive- Grays Lake - 25 minute drive- Iowa State Fair - 28 minute drive- Saylorville lake - 30 minute drivePlanning a book weekend with friends? Let us know! We can provide a planning spreadsheet to get you started. Here's a list of some local bookstores to visit during your stay:- Wandering Raccoon Books - 11 minute drive (6 miles)- Half Price Books - 14 minute drive (7 miles)- Beaverdale Books - 22 minute drive (10 miles)- Reading in Public Bookstore + Cafe - 20 minute drive (12 miles)- The Little Book - 22 minute drive (14 miles)- StoryHouse Bookpub - 22 minute drive (16 miles)- Plain Talks Books & Coffee - 22 minute drive (16 miles)- Nos Books - 21 minute drive (14 miles)Bedrooms:- BR1: A king bed with ensuite master bathroom- BR2: A full bed - BR3: 2 Twin beds- BR4: 2 Twin beds, one bed can be expanded to a king size if needed- BR5: A queen bed (lower level)House Rules:- No smoking- Pets allowed for a non-refundable $75 fee (max 2 pets)- No filming or professional movie shoots- Must be 25+ to book- Please report any damages that occur during your stayBook Now & Begin Your Story:Whether you're here to relax, celebrate, or embark on a new adventure, Once Upon a Stay is the perfect setting to create unforgettable memories.About pets:Pets allowed: limit 2 total.About children:Children allowed: ages 0-17.About smoking:Smoking is not permitted.About events:No events allowed.