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Top Things To Do in Des Moines

By: Cityseeker
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With its high livability quotient and impressive cultural pursuits, Des Moines is an underrated metropolitan gem. Home to the East Village, the stunning Iowa State Capitol, and the annual host of the Iowa State Fair, Des Moines is counted among Midwest's brightest beacons.


Blank Park Zoo

With 49 acres (20 hectares) of land inhabited by 104 different animal species and 1,484 animal specimens, Blank Park Zoo is the only accredited zoo in the state of Iowa. It also boasts the widest range of botanical collections in the state. The zoo aims to inspire an appreciation for nature, particularly among its younger visitors. It's open between November and February, so make sure you don't miss out on the opportunity to see all the exciting animals at Blank Park Zoo when you have the chance.

7401 Southwest 9th Street, Des Moines, IA, United States, 50315
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Eye-candy for botanists and admirers of nature, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden prides itself on its beautiful plantations, exotic flowers, and manicured hedges. You'll find an incredible variety of tropical plants, as well as features like small waterfalls to help set the scene. Beyond creating visually stunning experiences, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden also endeavors to create awareness among visitors about horticulture and the environment through its several educational tours. Plant lover or not, head here to soak in the lovely atmosphere or simply for a breath of fresh air.

909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines, IA, United States, 50309
Des Moines Art Center

A temple for art lovers and learners, the Des Moines Art Center houses artworks like Edward Hopper's Automat, which was reproduced as a postage stamp. Other artists included in the permanent collection are Andy Warhol, Claude Monet, and Roy Lichtenstein. The building is considered a work of art in and of itself, first built in 1948 and later redesigned in 1968. The art center even has a reference library, restaurant, and gift shop. It also has arrangements for seminars and workshops on regularly.

4700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA, United States, 50312
Iowa State Capitol

This courtly state capitol is perched atop a verdant hill, and is a canopy of elegance and dignity. A landmark structure in Des Moines, the building is at once imposing and regal, historic and contemporary. Constructed between 1871 and 1886, it is the only state capitol in the United States that has five domes, notably the gilded central dome. One of the tallest buildings in Iowa until 1924, this iconic government building houses the Iowa State Senate and House of Representatives, as well as the offices of the Governor of Iowa, Attorney General, Secretary of State, and other major agencies. With a gilded dome glimmering under the radiance of the sun and sky, the Iowa State Capitol also acts as a panoramic vantage point over the city's bustling downtown. The capitol's exterior is complete with Corinthian columns, porticoes and a finely-sculpted pediment, while the interior is adorned with opulent furniture and remnants like ship models and ceremonial gowns attached to historic luminaries. The grounds of the capitol also shelter the soul-stirring Lincoln and Tad Statue and the Soldier and Sailors Monument.

1007 East Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA, United States, 50319
Science Center of Iowa

Embracing the mission of providing only the highest quality scientific exploration through interactive educational programs and exhibits, the Science Center of Iowa has emerged as a leading learning center in Iowa. Everything at the Science Center of Iowa inculcates a sense of curiosity within each of its visitors, be it related to physical science, space technology, or anything in between. Come explore this learning institution and let it satisfy your hunger for knowledge. To make a day of it, stop by the onsite planetarium and IMAX cinema.

401 West Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, Des Moines, IA, United States, 50309
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Opened in 2009, John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a popular landmark in the downtown area. Named after the couple who donated most of the artwork showcased in the park, it is spread across 4.4 acres (1.78 hectares). Get amazed by the interesting and intricate sculptures laid out beautifully throughout this park. Many are created by renowned artists from across the globe. Guided tours can be availed from April through October however there is no need for one. Click photos, enjoy picnicking or just admire these artistic creations at this sculpture park.

1330 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA, United States, 50309
Salisbury House & Gardens

Built in the early 1900s by the Weeks family, the Salisbury House in Des Moines is an excellent locus of history and culture. Modeled on the King's House based in Salisbury, this courtly edifice is further augmented by rolling, viridescent lawns dotted with an array of blooming flowers and trees. Enlisted on the National Register of Historic Places, this stately manor is awash in the finer nuances of Gothic, Tudor and Carolean architecture. Sprawling across 22,000 square feet (2000 square meters), the house lovingly harbors an array of opulent, lavishly furnished rooms, each of which boasts exquisite architecture coupled with majestic interiors. Hidden in the recesses of the house is a stunning collective of rare antiques, books, and valuable artifacts that chronicle the legacy of the Weeks family. A magnificent canopy of history and beauty, the Salisbury House is a priceless possession of Iowa.

4025 Tonawanda Drive, Des Moines, IA, United States, 50312
Gray's Lake Park

Once a sand and gravel quarry which grew into a huge oxbow-shaped lake, Gray's Lake Park came into form in 2001 and has been an integral part of the city ever since. Spread across 167 acres (67.58 hectares) which includes the 100-acre (40.47 hectares) namesake lake, this beautiful urban park offers a lot of recreational activity for residents within the locality. The lake is fed by the nearby river and is full throughout the year. Abounding with fish like catfish, largemouth bass and crapies, it is a favorable spot for fishing. Permit is required for this. The Kruidenier Trail Pedestrian Bridge during the night with its colorful light display is a sight to behold. Sailing, boating, canoeing and kite-flying are other popular activities. Well planned trails, biking trails, picnic spots, a swimming area, a beach and playground complete this park. Bicycles and watercrafts can be rented from the park. Pets on leash are allowed.

2101 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, United States, 50321
Living History Farms

Telling the story of Iowa's cultural and agricultural history, Living History Farms situated in the heart of Urbandale is an excellent open-air museum. The many buildings and barns here are built in a rustic style that was prevalent in Iowa during the past centuries to add to the overall setting. A visit to the Living History Farms is ought to be fun and educational at the same time.

11121 Hickman Road, Urbandale, IA, United States, 50322
East Village

The historic East Village neighborhood in Downtown Des Moines is dotted with various bars, restaurants, and shops. The fun, eclectic atmosphere of this village is what attracts many visitors. The historic East Village also hosts many annual events, including the World Food Festival. This iconic neighborhood features a combination of residential and commercial areas.

East Village, Des Moines, IA, United States, 50319
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