Des Moines City Guide - Food, Culture and Surprising Adventures
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Travel Notes: Destinations: North America: Iowa - Des Moines Travel Guide.
Short URL: https://tnot.es/DSM
Travel Guide For Visitors to Des Moines
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Think you know the American Midwest? Think again. Des Moines, the dynamic capital of Iowa, is quietly rewriting the rules on what makes a brilliant city break. Share on Facebook
You've Got Des Moines All Wrong
Forget any preconceptions about Iowa being all cornfields and quiet countryside.
Visiting Des Moines, Iowa
What You Really Need to Know
Des Moines has emerged as one of America's most exciting urban destinations, combining world-class dining, innovative craft brewing, stunning architecture, and cultural attractions that would make any major city proud.
Whether you're seeking gourmet experiences, family-friendly adventures, or unique cultural immersion, this vibrant capital delivers in abundance.
Visit Des Moines - The Capital That Defies Expectations
Des Moines consistently ranks amongst America's best places to live, and once you experience the city's infectious energy, you'll understand why.
The downtown district pulses with life, historic neighbourhoods offer charming escapes, and the local food scene rivals cities twice its size.
Best of all, you'll experience genuine Midwest hospitality without the crowds and premium prices of coastal destinations.
Masterful Balancing Act
The city masterfully balances its agricultural heritage with cutting-edge innovation, creating a destination that feels both authentic and forward-thinking.
From the stunning Iowa State Capitol building to the thriving East Village district, Des Moines offers experiences that will genuinely surprise you.
Top Attractions and Must-See Sights
Des Moines Riverwalk offers scenic views and a pleasant atmosphere, especially when the weather is fine.
Arts and Entertainment
Civic Center of Greater Des Moines
Attend a Broadway-caliber performance at the Civic Center (221 Walnut St,), which hosts touring Broadway shows, concerts, and local productions.
The venue's programming rivals major metropolitan areas.
Des Moines Art Center
Culture and art enthusiasts may want to roam through the Des Moines Art Center (4700 Grand Ave), which houses an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art.
The building itself, designed by renowned architects, is as stunning as the artwork within.
East Village
This hip neighbourhood buzzes with boutique shops, galleries, and trendy eateries.
The area perfectly captures Des Moines' creative spirit and offers excellent people-watching opportunities.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Adventureland Park
Located nearby in Altoona, this beloved amusement park delivers thrills with roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions.
The park's tornado-themed coaster and classic wooden rides provide excitement for all adventure levels.
Blank Park Zoo
Home to over 800 animals from around the world, the zoo (7401 SW 9th St) emphasises conservation and education.
The Australian Adventure exhibit and Discovery Center are particular highlights for families.
Blue Zoo Aquarium
Blue Zoo Aquarium Des Moines offers an underwater adventure right in the heart of Iowa. This state-of-the-art facility features diverse marine life, interactive exhibits, and educational programmes that delight children and adults alike.
Historic and Cultural Landmarks
Iowa State Capitol Building
The stunning Iowa State Capitol (1007 E Grand Ave) dominates Des Moines' skyline with its magnificent golden dome and impressive architecture.
Free guided tours reveal the building's fascinating history and offer glimpses into Iowa's political heritage.
The Capitol's grounds provide excellent photo opportunities and peaceful walking paths.
Salisbury House & Gardens
This remarkable English Tudor mansion, built in the 1920s, transports visitors to medieval England.
The house contains an impressive collection of rare books, tapestries, and artwork, whilst the surrounding gardens offer seasonal beauty throughout the year.
State Historical Museum of Iowa
Dive deep into Iowa's rich heritage at this comprehensive museum (600 E Locust St), which tells the story of the state from prehistoric times to the modern era.
Interactive exhibits make history engaging for visitors of all ages.
Food and Drink Scene: A Culinary Revolution
Des Moines has undergone a remarkable culinary transformation, earning recognition as one of America's most exciting food destinations.
The city's dining scene celebrates both innovative cuisine and Midwest comfort food traditions.
Craft Beer Culture
Big Grove Brewery
Big Grove Brewery's Des Moines location (555 17th St) offers a beautiful, modern patio, event space, and vibrant, classic taproom.
Their craft beers pair perfectly with their farm-to-table menu, creating an authentic Iowa dining experience.
Iowa Taproom
The Iowa Taproom (215 E 3rd St #100) supports the growing tradition of diversity, creativity and excellence in Iowa beer, featuring an impressive selection of local brews.
The venue celebrates Iowa's brewing heritage whilst offering a sophisticated atmosphere.
Lua Brewing
Lua Brewing (1525 High St) is one of the most beautiful spaces in Des Moines, with a beautiful taproom and huge patio.
Their innovative brewing approach and stunning venue design create memorable experiences for beer enthusiasts.
Restaurant Scene
The Des Moines dining scene spans from casual gastropubs to upscale establishments, with many restaurants emphasising locally-sourced ingredients.
The annual Des Moines Restaurant Week showcases the city's culinary diversity, offering visitors opportunities to sample multiple establishments at attractive prices.
Where to Stay in Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines offers accommodation choices ranging from boutique hotels in historic buildings to modern business hotels and charming bed-and-breakfasts.
The downtown area provides convenient access to attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Many visitors prefer staying in the downtown district for walkability, whilst those seeking quieter options can find excellent hotels in the suburban areas with easy access to the city centre.
Popular Hotels in Des Moines
Getting Around Des Moines
The city's compact downtown area is highly walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues within easy walking distance.
For exploring beyond the city centre, rental cars provide the greatest flexibility, though taxi services and ride-sharing apps are readily available.
Des Moines International Airport (DSM) offers convenient access from major cities across the United States, with most domestic destinations reachable within a few hours.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Iowa Craft Brew Festival
The annual Iowa Craft Brew Festival offers unlimited samples of Iowa beers, ciders, and alternative beverages alongside local food vendors.
Iowa State Fair
The eleven days of the Iowa State Fair is packed with entertainment and things to do, featuring trade shows, exhibits, art galleries, amusement rides, live music, and an incredible variety of food vendors.
This iconic event, held annually in August, attracts visitors from across the nation.
Day Trips from Des Moines
If you're based in Des Moines and fancy a day out, there are several charming destinations within easy reach that offer a taste of Iowa's unique character and scenery.
American Gothic House
Art lovers might enjoy a visit to the American Gothic House (300 American Gothic St) in Eldon, the iconic backdrop of Grant Wood's famous painting.
You can even dress up and recreate the painting yourself; a quirky photo opportunity and a bit of fun history.
High Trestle Trail Bridge
If you're keen on the outdoors, the High Trestle Trail Bridge, north-west of Des Moines, desreves a look.
This impressive structure spans the Des Moines River and is one of the largest trail bridges in the world.
It's especially striking at night when it's illuminated, and the surrounding trail is ideal for walking or cycling.
Grotto of the Redemption
For something truly unique, the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption, in West Bend, is a remarkable religious monument constructed from precious stones and minerals.
It's often described as one of the most impressive man-made grottoes in the world and makes for a fascinating day out.
Pella
Pella is a delightful town known for its Dutch heritage, picturesque architecture, and famous bakeries.
It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, popping into independent shops, and enjoying a coffee or ice cream.
The ambience is particularly appealing if you appreciate small-town charm and a slower pace.
Best Time to Visit
Des Moines shines during late spring through early autumn (May through October), when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities and festivals.
Summer brings the iconic Iowa State Fair and numerous outdoor events, whilst autumn offers beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures.
Winter visits can be rewarding for those interested in indoor attractions, cozy restaurant experiences, and potential snow activities, though visitors should prepare for cold temperatures.
Planning Your Trip
Most visitors find that a long weekend (three to four days) provides sufficient time to experience Des Moines' highlights, including major attractions, several excellent restaurants, and perhaps a brewery tour.
Food enthusiasts and those interested in local culture might prefer a week-long stay to fully explore the city's offerings.
Adding Value to Yout Travel Budget
Des Moines offers exceptional value compared to larger cities, with reasonable accommodation prices and dining costs that won't strain your travel budget.
The city's compact size means you can experience multiple neighbourhoods and attractions without extensive travel time.
Whether you're drawn by the thriving food scene, cultural attractions, family-friendly activities, or the chance to savour authentic Midwest hospitality, Des Moines delivers an unexpectedly rich travel experience.
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