Things To Do in Des Moines – Best Attractions
Des Moines, more promptly known as Midwest’s “cultural mecca,” has made significant leaps over the years to make the city what it is today. Home to a thriving dining and shopping scene, this is where you’ll also stumble upon the region’s pivotal political landscape. That’s not it. The inhabitants of this city take the utmost pride in their hospitality, making even the shortest of your visits worth the while.
So why, after all, is Des Moines considered the cultural and historical hub of Iowa? For one, the city features the famous gold-domed State Capitol building boasting the state’s long history. Then there’s the bustling downtown with its fancy storefronts and popular chains.
Attractions in Des Moines
However, nothing beats its trendy neighborhoods and sightseeing havens. Much to the world’s dismay, the best Des Moines, Iowa attractions are yet to be discovered. And so, here we are, hoping to leave no stone unturned as we take you through some of the most sought-after locations of the city.
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Located at the heart of Des Moines, this sculpture park covers over 4 acres of land with more than 20 displays of sculpted art. Operating as the hub of unwinding for the city’s urbanites, this spot has been known to cater to tourists, families, and absolutely anyone on their lunch breaks for more than a decade. Even though it’s a wonderful spot to visit at any time of the year, visitors often prefer summertime the most. From community gatherings to the famous Des Moines Arts Festival, this park has hosted and celebrated artists for an eternity.
East Village
If you’re searching for the epitome of cultural emergence in the city, head over to the East Village right away. Located east of the signature Des Moines river in the city’s downtown, this vibrant neighborhood is lined with shops, restaurants, and several other spots to mark the city’s lively nightlife. Don’t hesitate to try out its unique eateries, especially if you’re a burrito enthusiast. “Tacopocalypse” has some of the best Mexican cuisines in store for you. However, what sets the tone of this small yet happening town are the stores featuring art displays and galleries. Alas, your tour of Iowa will be incomplete without at least a single visit to the East Village.
WaterWorks Park
Located close to the downtown streets, this majestic park spreads over 15,000 acres of green land and is filled with tons of activities like fishing, bird-watching, biking and running, etc. However, if you’re a fan of tranquility, you’ll know you’re at the right spot. Just set down a blanket and absorb the sun as you rejuvenate next to the lake. Last but not least, do not hesitate to extend your adventure by hopping on a bike and riding it down the trail beneath Fleur Drive to finally meet the exquisite Gray’s lake and its scenic pathway. From renting a boat to indulging in a good snowshoe adventure, you’ll have a world of activities awaiting your arrival here.
Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens
As the name has already given it away, this picturesque garden has long been the epitome of diversity in the city. This eccentric outdoor space has been landscaped in a way that prompts you to take your camera out and capture it all right away. This isn’t it. The breathtaking Asian pavilion is surrounded by a decorative garden and a cascading stream, almost making it appear dreamy. The pleasing scenery of this beautiful garden extends to over 1.4 acres of land punctuated by rock formations and stone pagodas, making it one of the most sought-after and the best Des Moines, Iowa attractions.
Iowa State Fair
Paying tribute to the agricultural affairs of the city that remarkably support the state of Iowa both culturally and financially, this state fair is a two-week affair that begins in August each year. Since agriculture is also one of the many facets that define the state, both locals and tourists look up to this opportunity to experience the authenticity of being here. Again, do not mistake it for being a farmers-only event as it’s far from being limited to a certain faction of the society. Some of the best ways to enjoy this exotic event are through art galleries, live music, amusement rides, trade shows, and of course, food stalls. Packed with various entertainment opportunities, the eleven days of this fair may turn out to be the most memorable aspects of your time in Des Moines.
Principal Park
Are you a baseball buff? If you are, then this park is an absolute must-visit. Once known as the Sec Taylor Stadium, this park is home to the state’s Triple-A baseball minor league team called the Iowa Cubs. After undergoing a massive remodeling in the year 1992, the spot is now recognized as a renowned minor league stadium in the nation. However, as much as it is advertised as such, the park is a lot more than the scenic stadium. It’s the smell of fresh hot dogs on a stall standing on the lush green grass that tops the experience up like the icing on the cake. It’s the cracking noise of a bat that comes from a well-timed swing and the crowd cheering for their favorite team that works the charm. That’s not it. You can also watch the brilliant car shows and Fourth of July fireworks to complete your visit. Remember, you don’t have to be a die-hard baseball fan to understand why this park is one of the best Des Moines, Iowa attractions.
Farmers Market
While this one may not have made it to the top of the list, the Downtown Farmers Market is by far one of the most popular sights tourists from across the country come to experience. After all, there’s no better way to learn about a city than through its farmers’ markets. With nearly 300 local vendors to support, this market does an exceptional job at bringing rural and urban communities together. In fact, in the last few years, the market has become the hotbed of meet and greets between families.
Home to bakers, farmers, and artists from different corners of the region, there is a shop for every need you may encounter. If this doesn’t make it one of the coolest places to see and experience, then nothing else can. No wonder it has turned out to be a premier attraction in Des Moines as it brings entire communities of entrepreneurs, foodies, and artisans together, and this isn’t it. Apart from the amazing local goods, it also hosts sit-down dining, live shows, and much more.
Blank Park Zoo
Your tour of Iowa is incomplete without a visit to this state-of-the-art zoo. Spreading over 49 acres of land, this zoological park is a fun way to spend time for kids and adults alike. Through a wonderful blend of conservation, research, education, and of course, recreation, this park has inspired various facilities to follow in its footsteps and give back to Mother Nature. Built in a gorgeous outdoor setting, it allows you to see wild animals in their natural habitat.
Speaking of wild animals, you’ll surely be left awestruck at the sight of all the amazing creatures around you, such as penguins, giraffes, tortoises, tigers, lions, and much more. There’s also a world beyond animals and all the wilderness they add to the scene. The park is known to facilitate conservation programs that educate people on different plant species found in the park too. While you’re at it, don’t forget to go on carousel, train, and camel rides to take the entire experience up a notch and end it on a perfect note.
Wrapping Up
Des Moines may not have been as hyped as other rather underwhelming tourist spots in the region. However, if you’re someone who likes to step out of their comfort zone every now and then, know that it couples both big-city vibes and Midwestern sensibilities to cater to the backpacker inside you. An often forgotten travel destination, Des Moines is undeniably one of the culturally richest and the most beautiful cities not only in Iowa but also in the rest of the United States. Despite being a massive, sprawling city in the Midwest, it’s pretty convenient to navigate, which makes it even more desirable and gives off a warm coziness, which may not usually be typical of a city setting.
On the one hand, you have an entire streak of shopping centers, restaurants, and cafes that mark the downtown area. On the other hand, local spots such as the farmers’ market make it quite an appealing adventure to embark on. In the end, the best Des Moines, Iowa attractions may still need some digging and uncovering. However, we hope to have given you a solid start in preparing your itineraries. Remember, there’s absolutely no corner of the city you won’t find astounding, but when it comes to managing your time and budget well, you may as well prefer sticking to a strict plan.
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