Top 10 Things To Do in Des Moines
Des Moines is the largest city in Iowa and also the state capital. The city and the state overall have a history in the agriculture industry and this is still evident today in places, although the city has evolved into one of the nation’s leading financial and insurance centers.
Des Moines offers a lot to entertain visitors, from cultural fairs to relaxing parks. Visitors can also get the opportunity to learn more about the city and the state, while the city also has an active art scene. We have listed some of the most popular attractions to help you decide what to do during your visit.
1. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Nature can be stunningly beautiful, thanks in part to the wide selection of plant life that can be found on the planet. For gardeners, plant enthusiasts or just people looking for something to do, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden should be high up on your itinerary. With exhibits inside and out, you will get to see plants that are found living locally and species that live elsewhere in the world. With tropical and temperate exhibits, you get a glimpse at the wide range of plant species on earth, including some of the more exotic species. The Trellis Cafe will also allow you to stock up on fuel during your visit.
2. State Capitol
The stunning gold dome of Iowa’s state capitol building is visible from viewpoints located around the city. The dome itself is covered in 23-karat gold and is flanked by four smaller but equally beautiful domes in green. As beautiful as the building is from the outside, it is just as impressive on the inside.
Visitors can arrange for guided tours with knowledgeable guides that will be more than happy to answer any questions. The interior of the building and the many works of art within give a real sense of the majesty of the building and the historical importance to the state and the nation.
3. Water Works Park
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and head to more scenic views, why not visit the Water Works Park. Although close to downtown Des Moines, you will find almost 15,000 acres of lakes and green areas that are ideal for relaxation and/or water sports.
Cyclists have a chance to get away from the traffic, and birdwatchers can hope for a glimpse of some of the local wildlife. Plus, of course, there’s plenty of fishing to be had for keen anglers. The park is open all year round and the park is lit up with holiday lights in the winter.
4. Des Moines Art Center
Art buffs visiting Des Moines should not miss out on the chance the visit the Des Moines Art Center. Established in 1948, this art center has since been holding exhibits from local artists, and those further afield. In addition to a number of temporary rotating exhibits, the Des Moines Art Center also boasts permanent exhibits from some of the world’s best-known artists.
This includes famous names such as O’Keeffe, Matisse, and Monet. With so much to do, seeing all there is to see in the center can be hungry work, so thankfully the Chef’s Palette Cafe will have plenty for you to eat.
5. Iowa State Fair
The state of Iowa is known partly for its agricultural industries, and the Iowa state fair reflects the importance of these industries to the people living there. The fair is one of the largest in the United States and covers an area of 450 acres. Visitors will get to watch livestock competitions and the 600lb butter cow, a cow made from butter, is an impressive sight.
Amusement rides and food stalls galore mean that you don’t have to be involved or even interested in the agriculture business to have a good time. The fair is held in August and it lasts for nearly two weeks.
6. Downtown Farmer’s Market
One of the best things about travelling to different places is that you will encounter local dishes that you may not find anywhere else. It can be a lot of fun trying out new foods, so the Downtown Farmers’ Market in Des Moines can make for a great day out for visitors.
The market has been in operation for more than 40 years and features products from local bakers, artisans, and farmers. With Des Moines’ history as an agricultural state, you can be sure to find wonderful treats that you can take back home with you. You will also find street performers and live music keeping everybody entertained.
7. The El Bait Shop
For beer connoisseurs, the El Bait Shop should definitely be on the list of things to do when you are in Des Moines. The El Bait Shop boasts the largest selection of American craft beers in the world with no fewer than 262 beers on tap, plus more in bottles.
Of course, where there is beer, there should also be food, and the El Bait Shop does not disappoint. Diners also get a choice between American and Mexican menus so there is bound to be something for everybody. If beer is not your tipple, then wine and cocktails are also available.
8. World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
Many of us are fortunate enough to have easy access to all the food we need, but not everybody has the same basic right. Things have improved in recent decades, however, with food becoming more affordable and more accessible to the world’s poorest people, and Dr. Norman Borlaug can take a large share of the credit for that.
The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates is a museum that is dedicated to the work of Dr. Borlaug, who died in 2009 aged 95 years old. The museum is an exhibit of how Dr. Borlaug won his Nobel peace prize. The museum is also a tribute to other people that have won the World Food Prize, an award that was initiated by Dr. Borlaug.
9. The Blank Park Zoo
Kids just love to visit zoos; they could spend all day long looking at the different animals. A trip to the zoo can also be very educational, and maybe even be an inspiration for young children to get involved with the natural world when they are older. Adults can also have a good time at the zoo and visiting the Blank Park Zoo is something that is a great idea for families.
Spread over 25 acres, the zoo features species that come from all over the world. The zoo is dedicated to education and conservation and can be a great learning experience for all guests.
10. Science Center of Iowa
Learning about science can be fascinating, and it can also be a lot of fun for people of all ages. This means that a visit to the Science Center of Iowa should be on your agenda if you are visiting Des Moines. The center has hands-on exhibits that help visitors to learn all about science, and people of all ages can get involved.
For a look at the stars, visit the center’s planetarium, while the IMAX theater will also help you to see the world in ways you have never seen it before. The center even has programs that have adults in mind specifically.
