Why Go to Des Moines
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Des Moines may be better known for conventions than vacations, but Iowa's capital deserves a closer look, especially for families. It's one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the Midwest, and it offers many of the attractions and much of the charm of bigger cities like Chicago at a fraction of the cost.
The gold-domed Iowa State Capitol is stunning, and the city has more than 800 miles of bike trails, a lively brewery scene and one of the best farmers markets in the country every Saturday downtown. Families can visit the animals at Blank Park Zoo and ride the slides and coasters at Adventureland. Couples can visit local wineries, stroll the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and browse the shops and restaurants of the East Village. In August, the Iowa State Fair is a classic American experience.
Des Moines is an affordable, easygoing weekend getaway. I'll plan a family trip or a fair visit with a hotel close to downtown.
BEST FOR
Families, foodies, art lovers and weekend travelers
BEST MONTHS
May–October
EXPLORE
Downtown includes the riverfront and sculpture park; East Village features independent shops; the Historic Valley Junction district lies west of downtown.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Des Moines
North America › Midwest › USA › Iowa
Welcoming Midwest culture and revitalized city districts
Agriculture
Politics
Parks
Family
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Combine the Capitol and East Village on one outing, then explore the sculpture park and Western Gateway area.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Check guided-tour schedules before arrival.
Iowa State Capitol
Tour the gold-domed statehouse and explore Iowa government history and public architecture. Public access depends on legislative activity and security procedures.
Visit in daylight for photography and follow artwork signage.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Walk among large contemporary sculptures in Western Gateway Park. This open-air art collection is easy to combine with downtown dining.
Check special exhibition and admission details.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Explore display gardens and a tropical conservatory near the Des Moines River. Plant collections and exhibits shift with the seasons.
Check galleries and special exhibitions before going.
Des Moines Art Center
See modern and contemporary artworks in a notable museum setting west of downtown. Architecture and adjacent parkland add to the visit.
Pair shopping with the Capitol for an easy half-day itinerary.
Historic East Village
Browse local boutiques, cafés and restaurants in a neighborhood east of the river near the Capitol.
A boutique hotel in a restored historic building close to downtown restaurants and the river.
Surety Hotel
Downtown Des Moines
Hotel Tags
An upscale boutique-style property convenient for the city's cultural and business district.
Des Lux Hotel
Downtown Des Moines
Hotel Tags
A contemporary full-service hotel near the convention and entertainment venues.
Hilton Des Moines Downtown
Downtown / Iowa Events Center
Hotel Tags
A renovated historic hotel with Art Deco features and a central location.
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton
Downtown Des Moines
Hotel Tags
A modern hotel near independent shops, dining and the State Capitol district.
AC Hotel Des Moines East Village
East Village
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Des Moines
High 48°F · Low 30°F · Rain 2 in
Holiday lights begin downtown, and Jolly Holiday Lights shines at Water Works Park.
Late spring through fall is ideal for outdoor markets and gardens; winters are cold with possible snow and ice.
Best Times to Visit Des Moines
WHEN TO GO
06
Events and Parking
State Fair and major downtown events can affect roads and parking; allow arrival buffers.
05
Walking Districts
Downtown and the East Village are walkable in separate clusters; use marked crossings.
04
Rental Cars
A car is useful for suburban attractions and regional farms outside the city.
03
Downtown Skywalk
The downtown skywalk connects certain buildings and can help during poor weather; access hours vary.
02
DART Buses
Des Moines Area Regional Transit routes cover selected city corridors; verify operating days.
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DSM Airport
Des Moines International Airport is south of downtown; use rental cars, taxis or rideshares.
Downtown can be explored on foot, while a car or rideshare is useful for neighborhoods farther away.
Getting Around Des Moines