Things to do in Des Moines, Iowa
- Des Moines is home to the world's largest insurance industry concentration per capita, often referred to as the insurance capital of the United States.
- The city layout includes an extensive climate-controlled skywalk system that connects over four miles of downtown buildings, allowing for year-round indoor transit.
- The Des Moines Register's 'Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa' (RAGBRAI) frequently utilizes the city as a major milestone, reflecting the state's deep cycling culture.
- The city sits on the site of a former U.S. Army fort established in 1843 to maintain peace between the Sauk and Meskwaki tribes and encroaching settlers.
- Des Moines maintains one of the largest concentrations of public art in the U.S. per capita, largely driven by the Pappajohn Sculpture Park project.
About Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines serves as the political and financial heart of Iowa, distinguished by its prominent gilded-domed capitol and a city-wide commitment to public art and greenery. Visitors can traverse the urban landscape to experience the expansive art installations at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park or retreat to the lush environment of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. The city balances civic history with outdoor recreation, exemplified by expansive spaces like Gray's Lake Park and the immersive educational exhibits at the Science Center of Iowa. As a regional economic hub, it integrates industrial heritage with a growing modern aesthetic near the confluence of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers.
Highlights of Des Moines, Iowa
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Museums
Walk through 4.4 acres of landscaped grounds featuring over 30 monumental sculptures by internationally acclaimed artists.
Parks
Explore the geodesic dome housing a diverse collection of exotic plants and a dedicated water garden.
Parks
Take advantage of the two-mile paved loop trail that offers iconic views of the state capitol building across the water.
Zoos
Visit the conservation-focused exhibits to see diverse wildlife in habitats designed to simulate their natural environments.
Museums
Engage with hands-on STEM exhibits and an interactive planetarium designed for all ages.
Museums
Tour the 1920s Tudor-style mansion featuring original furnishings and rare architectural woodwork.
Venues
Experience live performances in a historic venue that preserves its original 1920s decorative ceiling and theater aesthetics.
Top things to do in Des Moines, Iowa
The 120 highest-rated places in Des Moines, Iowa, ranked by travellers.
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Amusement parks
Adventureland Park is a seasonal amusement complex located in Altoona, Iowa, featuring over 100 rides, shows, and attrac...
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Blank Park Zoo is Iowa's only accredited zoo, situated on 49 acres in Des Moines. It features both indoor and outdoor ex...
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The Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a 4.4-acre outdoor exhibition space situated in the Western Gateway Park of downtown Des...
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Parks
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is anchored by a distinctive geodesic dome conservatory, designed by architect L...
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Des Moines, Iowa on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Des Moines, Iowa
Late spring to early autumn, specifically May through September, when the city's extensive park systems and outdoor botanical attractions are in peak bloom and the weather is most conducive to outdoor exploration.
2-3 days, which provides sufficient time to tour the downtown museum district, explore the major riverfront parks, and visit the prominent zoological and botanical sites.
A personal vehicle is the primary mode of transit for reaching suburban attractions, though the downtown core is accessible via the DART bus system and the extensive skywalk network.
Stay in the downtown area for immediate access to the skywalks and cultural centers, or the East Village for a mix of historic architecture and independent boutiques.
Mid-range; Des Moines is generally more affordable than major coastal U.S. cities, with moderately priced dining and lodging options.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 120 curated attractions in and around Des Moines, Iowa, ranked by traveller ratings.
Adventureland Park is the highest-rated place to visit in Des Moines, Iowa right now.
The largest category is parks, with 71 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Bayonne, New Jersey, Downtown Los Angeles, Washington, D.C..
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