Location: Des Moines
Top Things to do in Des Moines
What to do and see in Des Moines, Iowa (IA): The Best Free Things to do
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. Clive Greenbelt Trail
3. Des Moines Art Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 294 reviews
This internationally acclaimed museum houses impressive works by artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, including Edward Hopper, Georgia O'Keefe and Henri Matisse. The center, which also offers art classes, consists of three buildings, each designed by a celebrated architect: Eliel Saarinen, I.M. Pei and Richard Meier.
Reviewed By L3097CZcarolb
If you like contemporary art, this museum is for you. A smallish, but very well curated collection and several special exhibits made this a highlight of our recent trip. The friendly staff was knowledgeable and contributed to our understanding of one of the special exhibits. Also, the building itself (really three buildings) was interesting, and there is a lovely garden on the grounds. A little out of the way, but worth it!
4. Saylorville Trail
5. John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
6. Downtown Farmers Market
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 415 reviews
Reviewed By flyingsquirrels - Des Moines, United States
We have been coming to this farmers market for years - and I remember how Jaw-dropping it was the first time I went! It’s huge and so much fun! Everything you can imagine and more - all the farm fresh fruits and vegetables you can imagine, home baked goodies like fruit tarts, huge cinnamon rolls, cakes, and cookies. Honey, salsas, wine, crafts vendors, flowers and plants, live music, doesn’t town bars and restaurants, and don’t forget all the breakfast food trucks! Popcorn, coffee stands, balloon animals, ethnic foods, spices, jellies... so much of everything! You have to experience this!
7. East Village
8. State Historical Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 186 reviews
Reviewed By McKGil23 - Iowa City, United States
Some very cool exhibits highlighting our state. Across from the capital near everything downtown. Was a joy to see some history of our state.
9. Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 687 reviews
Open to visitors since September 2009, the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park features artwork by 22 of the world's most celebrated artists. The 4.4 Acre park, located within a major crossroads of the urban grid, creates a pedestrian friendly entranceway to downtown Des Moines. This accessible setting, coupled with the skilled landscape design and caliber of the art, makes it unlike any other sculpture park in the United States. The Pappajohns' contribution of 28 works for the park is the most significant donation of artwork ever made to the Des Moines Art Center.
Reviewed By 160gailk
Very nice time enjoying the interesting art sculptures- worth the trip! Short and easy walk with the Des Moines skyline in the background.
10. Gray's Lake Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 319 reviews
Reviewed By ebonc2016
Gray's lake has so much to do! walking trails, fishing, and paddle boating are just a few options for the whole family. With the new underpass walk trail opening up to Waterworks Park, this is the place to enjoy the outdoors in the greater Des Moines Area. "Like" their Facebook page for details on night events at Gray's lake.
