Des Moines Tourism  
Des Moines Tourism

Des Moines Tourism


Sometimes, it’s just a better idea to escape to the Midwest when you want to get away from it all. Sure, the tropics are exciting, but who wants to be sticky and covered in sand as a part of their vacation? Before you start raising your hand too wildly, think about heading to Des Moines. While you might wince at first, thinking it’s not as culture-driven as some place like New York, think again. This bustling city that was founded in 1843 has a lot to offer, and even more than you might think you need in a vacation destination.

Where to Go

Before you start checking out plane tickets, you might want to know what you’re getting into in Des Moines.

  • Blank Park Zoo – While this might sound like any other zoo in the area, you can enjoy special exhibits like one that takes you behind the scenes of the zoo, or the Feed the Giraffes tour. These tours are offered throughout the year and can help you entertain yourself or a full family of animal lovers.
  • Capitol Building – When you want to know what keeps Des Moines ticking, the Capitol Building is a must-see. This building has a 23-karat gold leaf dome at its top, which makes for excellent pictures to send to your friends.
  • Des Moines Art Center – If you want to learn more about the arts in Des Moines, it never hurts to head to the Art Center. This center includes works by Georgia O’Keefe and Edward Hopper, as well as Henri Matisse and Francis Bacon. And you can even stop by the sculpture park or the highly rated restaurant in the building.
  • Des Moines Botanical Center – For those who prefer a more nature-inspired trip, the botanical center includes an Asian Pavilion and the perfect stopping point if you’re traveling during the cold of a Midwest winter.
  • Salisbury House – Lovers of architecture will enjoy the Salisbury House, with its 42 rooms and various styles of design, as well as ongoing programs and music concerns.
  • Science Center of Iowa – The hands-on experiences you can enjoy at the Science Center of Iowa will teach you a thing or two about the world around you, as well as make you more appreciative of the way that the universe works.
  • State Historical Society of Iowa Museum – If you’re into history, the historical society will offer you insight into the way that Iowa and Des Moines developed over the past hundred years.
  • Terrace Hill (Governor's Mansion) – The Governor’s Mansion might not yield you a glimpse of the head of the state, but it will certainly help you see more about the past governors and the development of the city.

You can also enjoy a variety of ongoing events in Des Moines, including:

  • Iowa State Fair – in August each year
  • Des Moines Art Festival – in June
  • Taste of Des Moines – July each year

In fact, you might want to make your trip to Des Moines hit one of these major events, as you’ll not only be exposed to culture, but also to great art and food.