Des Moines is a surprisingly vibrant city located in central Iowa. This capital city has worked hard over the past years to infuse itself with so many things to do and see. Des Moines has a rich cultural and historical heritage, reflected in places like the Capitol building and the Salisbury House. The city also has a trendy side seen in the many microbreweries, hip neighborhoods and theaters. Mix in the fact that Iowa natives are about the friendliest people you’ll meet and it is no wonder that Des Moines is quickly becoming a popular vacation destination for a long weekend. So if you plan on visiting Iowa soon, check out our favorite things to do in Des Moines.
When to Visit
Visiting Des Moines is a great option year round. Many of the best things to do in Des Moines are indoor activities. So even in winter, when weather gets chilly, you’ll be able to find something to do. However, if you’d like to take advantage of the outdoor activities, you’ll want to visit between late spring and early fall.
We always get asked how many days should someone spend in Des Moines. This really depends on how much you want to do. But we think Des Moines is a perfect destination for a long weekend. 2-3 days will give you enough time to try a lot of the things to do in Des Moines.
Where to Stay
Staying downtown is most convenient if you are planning on exploring only in the Des Moines area. While Des Moines isn’t a very walkable city, you will cut down on driving time by staying in the city.
Prices in downtown Des Moines as an added bonus aren’t very expensive. Des Moines is one of the least expensive vacation destinations we’ve visited.
If you’re planning on staying in a hotel, prices downtown average about $150/night. You can find less expensive hotels on the outskirts of town.
We’d recommend staying in a vacation rental when visiting Des Moines. We stayed in the east village and paid $50/night for an AirBnB. AirBnB prices downtown average around $100/night.
Getting There and Around
You will need a car of some sort to get around as things are quite spread out. However, if you are staying downtown you could easily get by without a car using a ride-share program for transportation. This is best for people flying in to Des Moines as it will save on a daily car rental fee.
If you are flying in to Des Moines, the best airport is the Des Moines International Airport. This airport frequently has very cheap flights. Because of these flight discounts, Des Moines is one of those great destinations that would make a great last minute trip.
Between the cheap airfare, no need for a car rental, and the low accommodations prices, a Des Moines vacation can be a great budget trip.
Top Things to Do
Des Moines Art Center
Cost: FREE
The Des Moines Art Center is located in downtown Des Moines and houses a modern art collection. Visit the art gallery to see their permanent collection as well as rotating exhibits.
The State Capitol
Cost: FREE
This is one of our favorite things to do in Des Moines. This gold domed capitol building is a beautiful piece of architecture. Visit the State Capitol and wander the gorgeous park surrounding it. Then take a free guided tour. The guided tour will take you through several rooms and you’ll marvel at the intricately hand carved furniture. My favorite portion of the tour was a visit to the Law Library which looks like a room straight out of a Harry Potter film. You can also look up into the real gold leafed dome.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Cost: FREE
This sculpture park is located near downtown Iowa. This manicured garden is filled with large outdoor sculptures. This is a great place to visit and take a walk when the weather is nice. Wandering the park will allow you to see the sculptures up close. In the summer months, you’ll also find live music and artists selling their wares during certain times of the week.
Science Center of Iowa
Cost: $11/person
This hands on Science Center is a great things to do in Des Moines for families with little ones. This hands on museum has so many interactive exhibits and touching is encouraged. Enjoy visiting the Science Center to see the exhibits and also to view the large IMAX documentaries screening daily.
Breweries
Cost: varies
Des Moines has several microbreweries that have popped up throughout town in the past years. And who doesn’t love a visit to a brewery after a long day of sightseeing. Grab a cold glass of beer, take a game to your table, and wind down with a uniquely Des Moines brew.
State Historical Museum of Iowa
Cost: FREE
This museum helps you understand Iowa’s unique place in history. Wander the halls to see the artifacts that demonstrate the impact the residents of Iowa have had on developing the United States. From the roll in the Civil War to the inventions of Iowans, there are some interesting facts to learn here.
Better Homes & Gardens Test Garden
Cost: FREE
Explore the beautifully manicured gardens set to look like backyards at the Better Homes & Gardens Test Garden. These gardens are used to take photos for the Better Homes & Gardens magazine. The space also functions as a photography studio and a meeting space but you can tour the gardens for free.
Salisbury House
Cost: $10/person
This 1920s house in the heart of Des Moines is a remnant of the decadent life in Des Moines before the Great Depression. For $10, you can take a self-guided tour of the house and gardens. This includes learning the history of the Salisbury family and the commissioning of the house. Lovers of both history and architecture will enjoy a tour through this house.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Cost: $10/person
This botanical garden is located on the banks of the Des Moines River. The greenhouses and gardens are home to more than 1,200 different plants. Enjoy wandering the different ecosystems within the gardens to see plants from around the world.
Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens
Cost: FREE
Take a walk through the Asian gardens to exploring this beautiful riverside park. This garden is right next door to the Des Moines Botanical Garden. Walk through the park to see the recreated asian structures and the rock gardens.
The East Village
Cost: FREE to wander
This trendy shopping district is located in the eastern part of downtown Des Moines. This area is filled with trendy local shops as well as some amazing eateries. We ate at Zombie Burger years ago and are still full.
Downtown Farmers’ Market
Cost: FREE to wander
Who doesn’t love a good farmers’ market, right? That’s why this is one of our favorite things to do in Des Moines. This farmers’ market spans blocks! You’ll find produce, baked goods, cheeses, and international foods for sale here so make sure to come hungry! There are also non-food items being sold like arts, crafts, souvenirs and more! Enjoy a stroll around lunch time.
We hope this list has help to inspire you to visit Des Moines and also given you some ideas for planning your trip. With so many things to do in Des Moines, we know you’ll be able to spend an amazing weekend or more in this modern Midwest town. Please leave any comments or questions you may have below and we’ll be happy to get in touch.
