Things To Do
in Des Moines
Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, sits along the Des Moines River and blends a thriving urban core with approachable Midwestern charm. Downtown features a lively riverwalk, modern museums, and a growing dining and craft-beer scene. The city also serves as a gateway to Iowa's farmland, with easy access to parks, trails, and rolling countryside.
Neighborhoods like the East Village and Court Avenue District offer boutique shops, galleries, and friendly gatherings year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Iowa State Capitol, where you can marvel at its stunning gold dome and explore the beautifully restored interior. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Historic East Village, filled with charming shops and cafes. Don't forget to grab a coffee from a local roaster to kickstart your day.
Head over to the Des Moines Art Center, where you can admire a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art. For lunch, indulge in a meal at one of the nearby farm-to-table restaurants, savoring locally-sourced ingredients. Afterward, take a relaxing walk around Gray's Lake Park, enjoying the scenic views and perhaps renting a paddleboat.
As the sun sets, visit the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, where you can enjoy a twilight stroll among the impressive outdoor sculptures. For dinner, explore the vibrant Court Avenue District, known for its lively atmosphere and diverse dining options. End your day with a nightcap at a local brewery or rooftop bar, soaking in the city skyline.
Begin your day at the Science Center of Iowa, where interactive exhibits and engaging displays await. Enjoy a fun IMAX movie that will transport you to another world while you learn about science and technology. Afterward, grab breakfast at the center's café, which offers a variety of delicious options for all tastes.
Continue your exploration by visiting the nearby Blank Park Zoo, home to over 100 species of animals. Spend the afternoon wandering the zoo’s exhibits while enjoying the serene surroundings of its well-kept grounds. For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy in the zoo’s designated picnic areas or dine at their café.
As evening falls, head to the Des Moines Performing Arts Center to catch a theater performance or concert. Experience the vibrant culture of Des Moines as you enjoy a night of live entertainment. After the show, explore the nearby restaurants for a late-night dinner or dessert.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌One-way public transit fare | $2-3 |
| 🏨1-night mid-range hotel | $100-170 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $8-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact downtown with strong riverfront and green space
- Growing dining, craft beer, and cultural scene
- Good access to Midwest nature and day trips
- Walkable neighborhoods like East Village and Court Avenue
- Accessible public transportation and reasonable costs
- Can feel car-centric outside the core neighborhoods
- Some attractions require a short drive from downtown
- Winters can be cold and windy for extended periods
- Seasonal crowds at markets and events can vary year to year
Places to Visit in Des Moines
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking building with a gilded dome and formal grounds; excellent for architectural shots and city views.
An outdoor gallery in downtown Des Moines featuring large-scale sculptures set against a lush park backdrop.
A scenic path along the Des Moines River with bridges, viewpoints, and reflective water shots, especially at golden hour.
Vibrant street art and a historic bridge scene ideal for cityscape and urban photography.
Food in Des Moines
Des Moines Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Midwest staple featuring seasoned ground beef formed into a loose patty on a bun, often served with mustard and pickles.
Must-Try!
A large, pounded-thin pork cutlet breaded and fried, served on a bun with toppings; a beloved local comfort dish.
Seasonal and iconic to Iowa, often grilled or boiled and enjoyed fresh in summer markets and family dinners.
Ribs and pulled pork featuring regional barbecue styles found in many downtown and neighborhood eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seasonal market near Court Avenue offering local produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and crafts—great for a quick bite or ingredients for a picnic.
Weekend markets featuring local growers, food trucks, and chef demos; ideal for tasting fresh, Iowa-sourced fare.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite hellos, friendly conversation, and a willingness to listen are appreciated; door-holding and small courtesies are common.
Social drinking is common in bars and breweries; respect for personal space and moderate behavior is typical in public spaces.
Midwestern hospitality: be patient, polite, and brief in conversations with strangers you meet in shops or on the street.
Safety
Tipping in Des Moines
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard tipping in the US applies: 15-20% at restaurants; higher for exceptional service. Tip cash or to the card used; bartenders often appreciate $1-2 per drink.
Most places accept credit/debit cards and contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay). Cash is widely accepted, though some venues may include a service charge for large groups.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and blooming trees; good time for riverfront strolls and patio dining as yards and parks wake up.
Warm to hot days; take advantage of outdoor markets, riverwalk events, and paddle sports, with plenty of sunshine.
Pleasant temperatures and fall colors in parks and trails; great for scenic photography and creekside hikes.
Colder weather with occasional snow; enjoy indoor museums, cafés, and festive downtown lights.
Des Moines at Night
Hiking in Des Moines
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular rails-to-trails route with a scenic, elevated trestle bridge near Woodward and Ankeny; ideal for cycling and long-distance hiking.
Paved and natural trails through prairies and wetlands near Altoona; good for wildlife viewing and easy hikes.
Forested and scenic trails offering moderate hiking close to Des Moines for a day trip.
Airports
How to reach Des Moines by plane.
Main airport serving Des Moines with connections nationwide; about 8-12 miles from downtown, depending on route and traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A growing share in the downtown and East Village districts, attracted by jobs, lifestyle, and amenities.
Active neighborhoods with parks, schools, and family-friendly events throughout the year.
Steady presence in suburban and historic neighborhoods, drawn to cultural facilities and community programs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Minor league baseball with family-friendly games at Principal Park nearby downtown Des Moines.
University in Des Moines with competitive basketball programs and campus events.
Junior hockey team with local fan support and seasonal games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Des Moines.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many downtown and East Village restaurants offer vegetarian mains, salads, grain bowls, and veggie-forward options; ask staff for seasonal vegetable sides or rotating meatless dishes.