Location: Des Moines
Top Things to do in Des Moines
The 10 Best Sights & Landmarks in Des Moines, Iowa (IA)
Today the capital city and cultural center of Iowa is revitalized. A versatile destination everyone will enjoy, Des Moines has an itinerary for almost every interest. Culture and art enthusiasts may want to roam through the Des Moines Art Center, spend the weekend museum-hopping or attend a Broadway-caliber performance at the Civic Center. Golfers can spend their time and energy teeing up at any of the area's fine championship courses. The Blank Park Zoo and the Iowa State Fairgrounds should be on the list for families. And gardeners will savor the fantastic blooms at the Botanical Center and the Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden. Mix it up a little and sample all this "big city with a small town heart" has to offer.
Restaurants in Des Moines
1. Capitol Building
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 841 reviews
Reviewed By PaulS5336
The Iowa state capitol is wondrous. It’s as much an architectural and artistic showcase as it is the seat of state government. If you have the time and interest, I would recommend taking the approximately 90-minute free tour to see and learn about the history and design of this hand-built edifice. Randi was the guide of our group and she provided a comprehensive tour that contained a multitude of information. At the same time, she made the presentation engaging and accessible, and she took time to answer all of our questions.
2. Salisbury House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 154 reviews
The King's House in Salisbury, England, was the inspiration for this Tudor mansion.
Reviewed By Rbb599 - Camp Verde, United States
I was so excited to go back as an adult. I went on a field trip there as a kid and loved it. I do love houses with a history. This one is interesting from the different periods of architecture to the story behind the vision. Once you enter and pay ($10 you can roam where you wish. I think for an hour and 15 min. Don’t miss the informational video playing in what was the kitchen. The the grounds must beautiful in the summer, I went in March. You can also roam outside too. Groups are limited in sizes and there were about 4 or so time slots each day open. I called and reserved my spot.
3. 4th Street
4. Terrace Hill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 52 reviews
Historic Governor's mansion.
Reviewed By ksufan88 - Wichita, United States
Currently, tours are limited to one family at a time. Dates and times are on their website. We were fortunate to visit on Wednesday, July 8th (one day after their reopening). You must book a tour in advance and can only walk on the grounds around the house if you have a tour. You first watch an introductory 12 minute video and the a tour guide (we had Gary) walked you through the first floor of this amazing home. The woodwork and furnishings are fabulous. Our tour took a full hour and we learned much about the house, families that have lived here, and some of the interesting artifacts in the home. The second floor is not currently open for tours.
5. The Temple for Performing Arts
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 24 reviews
6. Iowa State Fairgrounds
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 868 reviews
For 11 days in August, it’s a fairground, but for the other 354 days of the year, the Iowa State Fairgrounds is home to auto shows, livestock exhibitions, flea markets, antique shows, concerts, trade shows and more. See what’s happening this month at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
Reviewed By P8743KEsusanh - Coal Creek, United States
There is truly something for everyone, whether you browse the vendors under the Grandstand or in the VI Building, or watch the Husband Calling Contest in Heritage Hall. There's the tiny museum of Fair history, and a huge model train display. You can watch demonstrations of Dutch oven cooking at the DNR Buiding, and admire the Butter Cow and other sculptures while strolling through the Ag Building sipping your honey lemonade or munching a sample hard boiled egg from the Egg Council. Visit Little Hands on the Farm with your children. From the Biggest Bull to the newest baby piglets, there's something new to see every day. Many quality free shows and concerts throughout the Fairgrounds, as well as the paid nightly entertainment at the Grandstand . Fabulous food all over the Fairgrounds, including hidden gems like the old-time soda fountain with real old fashioned malts and shakes. Watch a chain saw carver create a work of art in a few minutes, sing along at the Hymn Sing at the little church, or hold your breath while four year old kids try their hands at mutton bustin'. The midway is typical. You can park and ride from Southeast Polk High School on the east and the Capitol grounds from the west. Parking in these two places is free, and the bus ride is $2, with veteran discounts, and discounts for prepurchased Fair admission. Parking on the grounds is available for a fee. You could attend all 10 days of the Fair and never experience it all.
7. East Village
8. Principal Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 230 reviews
Reviewed By kay13_226 - Columbus, United States
We visited last July and I was very pleased with the facility. We rented a box and it was very roomy with great service. I would highly recommend!
9. Des Moines Civic Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 200 reviews
Reviewed By Weddlewaddle03
We went to see the Broadway show of Anastasia and it was beautifully done. We are never disappointed going to the Civic Center and their customer service it always impeccable!
10. Iowa Wild
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 25 reviews
Voted the Best Fan Experience in the AHL's Western Conference in 2015, come see the Iowa Wild (proud AHL affiliate of the Minnesota Wild) play at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines! Round up your family and friends, and come watch the future stars of the Minnesota Wild take the ice. The season runs October through April. If you're visiting Des Moines and looking for some fun and affordable entertainment, an Iowa Wild game is the place to be.
Reviewed By JerriAL1 - Johnston, United States
We have flex season tickets and love going to the games with family or friends! Having the flex plan is great because we can trade in unused tickets for more tickets to games. The team is having a great season and the games include T-shirt toss, fun activities and entertainment between periods. Happy to have an AHL hockey team in DSM!
