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Des Moines (IA)

34 Best and Fun Things You Could Do in Des Moines (IA)

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Are you looking for a private, quiet yet beautiful place without a buzz of tourists and beautiful sightseeing locations to spend your holiday, private or a family vacation, or even move to entirely?

I’ve got the perfect place for you! 

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Ever heard of the glorious, and beautiful city of Des Moines?

Well, now you have, and I’ll be more than ecstatic to tell you about Des Moines and the cool places and Activities that you would see and want to try out in Des Moines.

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Des Moines is the beautiful capital city of  Iowa, United States of America, it has many attributes that make it perfect for a midwest travel destination, and serves as a place of rest from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.

In Des Moines, you’ll find exotic, and romantic restaurants among other things that present the best cuisines. 

Many historical places found in Des Moines are perfect for sightseeing, and I assure you that with all the wonderful places found in this city, you will never be bored if you visit her. 

On the other hand, what if you’re already planning a group trip or family trip to Des Moine and you need help in knowing where exactly to go during your tour?

Then you are at the perfect place too, we are going to highlight various beautiful and fun places for you if you are visiting Des Moines.

There is surely a place for everyone ranging from romantic dinner date restaurants to fancy restaurants with the best cuisines,  parks, museums, and lovely grand buildings. 

So, I’m sure that you will certainly find a place or activities that suit your needs perfectly!

Now come with me as we consider and explore 34 different locations in Des Moines that you would love to see, and would convince you to pay a visit to Des Moines, and help you see ways to fully enjoy your stay if you’re already planning a trip. 

Fun Things, Activities, and Places to see in Des Moines!

1. Pappajohn Sculpture park: 

The Pappajohn Sculpture Park is also known as John and Mary Pappajohn sculpture park is a 4.4-acre park that’s within the Western Gateway park right there in Des Moines. 

The Pappajohn sculpture park was launched back in September 2009 and had about 24 sculptures, with four more sculptures added after a while. 

All of these beautiful sculptures were all sculpted by reputable artists.

This park is specifically located at 1330 Grand Avenue in Iowa. About 28 artworks have been contributed by Pappajohn to the park and this is the greatest art contribution ever made to the Des Moines art centre. 

Tours at the Pappajohn are open to the public from April 1 down to October 31 each year. However, you should book ahead for the tour, at least three weeks before the date you would like to have your tour. 

Touching, climbing, and fondling the sculptures are strictly prohibited so keep this in mind if you intend to go to the park with your children or wards. 

Snacks, food, and drinks are allowed in the park, so you could throw a picnic in addition to going on a tour. 

However, ensure to keep food, snacks, or waste products away from the sculptures. Also, keep in mind that smoking or carrying drugs is strictly prohibited in the park. 

2. Visit the capitol building

The capitol building houses the capitol grounds which are one of the tourist attractions in Des Moines. 

You will be opportune to enjoy a tour of the capitol building if you pay a visit to the Iowa state capital of Des Moines. 

The capitol building is an old but grand building that was started in the year 1871 and was completed in the year 1886.

Since this building was established in the 19th century, its unique architecture, works of art, and beautiful ornaments were all put into making this grand building.

This grand Capitol building is located at 1007 East Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa, and it’s strategically positioned on a hill that gives a great view of the downtown and also the western capitol terrace. 

They’re several monuments and statues that are fixed on the sides of the building and also at its front. Statues like the sailors’ and soldiers’ Monuments. 

3. The Science Center of Iowa in Des Moines 

The science centre is a total science facility, and a science museum, that is located in Des Moines Iowa. This science museum was opened in 1970.

This science centre of Iowa is located at 401 W Martin Luther King Jr Parkway which is at the bank of the Des Moines River. 

This science centre of Iowa is found in a complex that is about 110,000 square feet long and contains various education labs, science-based galleries and libraries. 

Inside this science complex is the IMAX theatre that is shaped like a dome and can contain up to 215 people at a time. 

This science centre offers some executive programmes, school visits and outings and even sleepovers, adventure and the likes. 

They also provide opportunities for special events like classes, family nights out, workshops, and events. 

4. Des Moines Performing Arts

One of the fun places you could visit if you are in Des Moines is the Des Moines performing arts. 

The Des Moines performing arts is a charity organisation that runs the Des Moines civic centre. 

This Des Moines civic centre is located at 221 walnut street in Des Moines Iowa. 

The Des Moines civic centre can house about 2,735 persons at a go, HOWEVER, the Des Moines performing arts were formed by a committee of local business owners in the year 1979.

Now, that small committee has grown widely as it is now a large organisation that organises different amazing shows and also captivating series.

 Some of the prominent series they have produced are; the Will Broadway Series, the Dance series, the Blue Shield family Series, and the Wellmark Blue Cross.

Also, the Des Moines performing sets brought development and restructuring of the Downtown area of Des Moines, bringing life to it by inviting musicians like victor Bogue and Sarah Vaughan to come to perform in the city.  

The Des Moines Performing Arts do not just function in the Des Moines performing civic centre, but also in other places like the stone theatre, etc. 

5. Restaurant on Court Avenue (RoCA) 

If you are looking to find a nice place to hang out and eat good food, then this is a great place to visit. 

The Restaurant on court avenue (RoCA) is located downtown, 208 historic court Avenue  Des Moines.

The exposed brick walls and the eye-catching sculptures made from bottles used in the restaurant’s design create a fine and charming environment.

The restaurant has three distinct areas: a bar, a lounge, and the main dining room. You are welcome to eat in any of them.

Chef Aaron Holt, the great chef of the house, transforms many of America’s popular foods into something that tastes better.

They offer irresistible delicacies. Some of the great dishes you will find on their menu comprises delicious American cuisine that has modest touches of Italian and French cuisines. 

Also, you will be able to enjoy exotic foods like Ribeye skewers marinated in hoisin sauce, as well as pork chops stuffed with provolone, prosciutto, apple caponata, shallot and green beans.

They have also got great wines and beers, you could choose from.

6. Iowa state historical Museum : 

This museum is a great option if you are looking for a tourist site in Des Moines. 

This is a nice attraction that is interesting and keeps you entertained when you visit. 

This Iowa State museum is a museum that was established mostly to showcase the progress of the state of Iowa. 

This museum is located at 600 East locust street and inside the museum, you’ll find a whole lot of historical documents, facts, etc. 

The Museum also has exhibits such as the Rand McNally Globe and Wings over Iowa. 

Students can participate in the educational program offered by the Museum. All visitors to the museum are given an hour-long guided tour (known as the collection tour).

On the course of this tour, you will be taught about the museum’s various collections of artefacts, as well as how they are stored.

Certain areas of the museum are available for rent at no cost. You could, for example, rent the museum auditorium for lessons, the classrooms for a meeting, and the atrium for receptions and parties.

7. Splash Seafood Bar & Grill

Splash is a seafood restaurant and oyster bar housed in a renovated Historic Homestead Building.

Though no one has ever tasted heaven and no earthly comparison exists, the artistic food served in this restaurant tastes like heaven. 

In Splash, you’ll find aquariums and magnificent murals that will make you fall in love with the environment.

Splash serves six different types of oysters, as well as a variety of fish from around the world.

The majority of these dishes arrive daily from places like Key Largo, Honolulu, Seattle, and Boston. 

Their oysters are sourced fresh and alive from the cold waters of New England bays and the Pacific Northwest.

Chef Dominic Iannarelli is the name of the chef at splash and sources say that he is one of the best on the planet. He respects all of his ingredients and uses them very well. 

That’s possibly why the seafood comes out succulent, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. 

Splash also sells over 450 bottles of wine a day, this tells how good their winery is. So surely, on the list, you will find a wine that suits your preferences.

This is a great place to come with your partner, you can take your special someone on a date. So, coming to Splash is one thing on the list of the best active es to do in Des Moines.

8. Laureates of the World Food Prize

The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates is both a museum and an educational centre housed in the former Des Moines Public Library Building.

This museum honours Nobel Peace Prize winner Dr. Norman Borlaug and the programs he develops in his fight against hunger.

The facility itself has numerous sections, including a gallery, a ballroom, a garden, an educational exhibit area, and numerous other interesting locations.

You can lease the compartments and the garden for special events such as parties, conferences, weddings, and board meetings.

 During the holidays, they provide public tours as well as school tours for children.

9. The Blank Park Zoo

The zoo is a favourite of children, and visiting the Blank Park Zoo is one of the unique things to do in Des Moines with children.

The Blank Park Zoo is a zoological park located on 9th Street south of downtown Des Moines. The Des Moines Children’s Zoo was the park’s original name when it first opened in 1966.

This 25-acre property is now more than just a zoo; it is dedicated to education and conservation. It’s worth noting that the Blank Park Zoo is the state’s only accredited zoo.

The zoo also has large exhibits such as the Discovery Centre, which has many sections such as the Free Range Aviary, the cave, and the Meredith Alpine Exhibit.

Other exhibits at the Zoo include the Discovery Center Aquarium, the African Boardwalk, and the Davis Kruidenier Australia Adventure.

It is an ideal location for a family vacation. The children will enjoy seeing the lion, tiger, zebra, monkeys, chimps, and other animals that live in this zoo.

10. Better Homes and Gardens Demonstration Garden

The Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden is another great place to get close to nature, and it’s a great addition to your list of fun activities to do in Des Moines, Iowa.

The Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden is an outdoor photography studio with great scenery, a display garden, and a test garden located on Locket Street, directly across from the Meredith Corporation.

This garden is located at 1716 locust street Des Moines Iowa. 

It is especially the Better Homes and Gardens Magazine and website’s Test Garden.

The garden features about  22 different garden spaces, including the Prairie Garden, which features plants such as goldenrod, and the Path Garden, which features a flagstone path alongside its plants. 

Particularly, you will love the shade garden and also the Woodland garden where there are some exotic flowers and plants. 

You could even rent this garden at no cost and use it for social events like weddings or small parties.

11. Aposto at the Scala House

Aposto at the Scala House is a restaurant located in a century-old Victorian mansion, it is a  refined and elegant restaurant with a fully stocked wine cellar.

This fine restaurant is housed in the Historic Sherman Hill Neighbourhood District of Des Moines’ downtown.

Tony Lemmo, an award-winning restaurateur, founded Aposto at the Scala House.

The wine served at this restaurant is seasonal and sourced from Mediterranean Fare, France, and the south of Italy.

 Their world-class chef prepares the food using locally sourced ingredients and local produce.

This is another great spot to go on a date with your spouse or anyone at all. They offer good food, great wine and also champagne is available.

However, the Apostle at the scale house only provides dinner and not breakfast or lunch. 

They are also open only on Wednesday through Saturday except for monthly dinners. 

12. Laureates of the World Food Prize.

The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates is both a museum and an educational centre housed in the former Des Moines Public Library Building.

This museum appreciates Nobel Peace Prize winner Dr Norman Borlaug and the programs he develops in his fight against hunger.

The facility itself has numerous sections, including a gallery, a ballroom, a garden, an educational exhibit area, and numerous other interesting locations.

It is found at 100 locust street Des Moines. You can rent the rooms and the garden for special events such as parties, meetings, weddings, and even office meetings.

 During the holidays, they provide public tours as well as school tours for children, so this is certainly a great place to bring your kids for a vacation. 

13. Bubba

Bubba is another great place that you can add to your list of  “must visit” places and activities in Des Moines.

It is located at 200 10th Street in Des Moines Iowa 

Bubba is a family-owned and regulated restaurant that serves only the best dishes in an inviting setting.

There are interesting artworks, crystal chandeliers, and beautifully designed chairs and backboards in the restaurant. 

All of this contributes to the romantic atmosphere that prevails in the restaurant.

They serve classic southern dishes such as fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, deviled eggs, meatloaf, gumbo, fried chicken, and waffles, and they all appear on the menu.

Also, There are also southern cocktails to accompany the delicious meals mentioned before.

Bubba doesn’t serve breakfast but serves lunch and dinner Monday through Sunday, except Saturday, and this is because they only serve dinner on Saturday nights.

14. Tasty Tacos. 

Tacos are delicious, and who doesn’t love a good taco? 

Tasty Tacos has a history that dates back more than 50 years.

Taste Tacos all started with Grandma Mosqueda, who passed down the secret to her grandchildren that she made her flour tacos so special. 

She had no idea the business would grow to be as successful as it is today. 

With only a recipe and an idea, the Mosquedas have more than five restaurants that attract visitors from all over the world.

You can sample their tacos (deep-fried and filled with lettuce), plenty of cheese, and a very tasty meal at this restaurant.

“Fast service, not fast food,” is their slogan. This demonstrates how much they care about their customers’ health.

You will find delicacies like enchiladas, burritos, tacos, and every other everyday Mexican street food in the restaurant. They all taste different and are made so fresh and delicious.

It will be no coincidence to the residents of Des Moines, the reason why Tasty Tacos is still voted one of the best eateries in the entire city of Des Moines for years now.

15. Salisbury House And Gardens

Salisbury House and Gardens is a beautifully furnished 1920s mansion with a botanical garden.

This historic mansion, located on 4025 Tonawanda Drive, houses an art museum, a library, and a concert venue.

Its garden is quite lovely, and it is one of the top romantic locations in  Des Moines, Iowa.

 If you enjoy getting close to nature, this should be on your list of recreational things to do in Des Moines today.

The building was originally owned by Carl and Edith Weeks, who built this Salisbury House in the style of a  house in15th-century England.

When it’s a special season, the salinity house hosts some special events like parties, dinners, book clubs, hangouts, weddings, and general small gatherings that are usually always private or personal, not open to the public.

16. Christopher’s Restaurant 

Christopher’s, a long-standing Des Moines restaurant, located at 2816 Beaver Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50310 has been serving our extraordinary cuisines to the community for over 50 years!

Christopher’s is well-known in Des Moines and throughout the United States for its exceptional service.

Its wines are sourced from all over the world unrivalled, and Italian-American cuisine is unrivalled, as you will agree.

This restaurant serves classic dishes like meatballs and spaghetti, as well as olive chickens, oven-baked ribs, and pan-fried walleye.

They have a full-service bar with a wide selection of wines, including locally sourced and global wines.

Also, they serve the best beers, such as craft beers, they also have exquisite cocktails, and you can also count on them to cater for your private events.

17. Pizza by Fong’s

Let’s move on to a pizza that is in a league of its own: Fong’s Pizza bar and pizzeria 

Fong’s Pizza is located at 223 4th Street Des Moines. 

Fong combines fantastic pizzas with craft beers, live karaoke, and tiki drinks. 

All of these must-haves must have some sort of magic in them because they continue to draw crowds to this bar.

Generally, Chinese fillings are used to top the pizzas. You can order your pizza with Moo Shu Pork, Crab Rangoon, Teriyaki Beef, or any other delicious combination you can think of. Each combination tastes unique and delicious.

Your taste buds will never forget the delectable experience they will have in this location. This should be on your Des Moines fun things-to-do list.

18. 801 Chophouse

801 Chophouse is an elegant restaurant located in the heart of downtown Des Moines at 801 Grand Ave #200, Des Moines, IA 50309 that should be on your list of places you should pay a visit in Des Moines.

Its wine list is world-class, and its cuisine is award-winning. What better place to take your significant other on a date than this intimate and romantic restaurant?

When it comes to hospitality, 801 Chophouse is one of Des Moines’ top restaurants. It’s amazing how, despite being founded in the 1920s, it still keeps up with the times.

This restaurant serves fresh seafood, salads, steaks, and unusual dishes such as half-shell and oysters, king crab legs, and Maine lobsters.

All of this can be enjoyed while sipping a glass of one of their wines. Scotches, imported spirits, and limited-edition small-batch bourbon are among the wines available.

They also have semi-private and private dining rooms for special events and functions with up to 48 guests in attendance.

801 Chophouse only serves dinner and is open seven days a week.

19. Des Moines Art Center (DMAC)

The Des Moines Art Centre, which opened in 1948, houses numerous collections of sculptures, modern arts, and paintings. This is one of the best things to see in Des Moines and should be on your list of things to do.

It’s on Grand Avenue, right in the heart of Des Moines at 4700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50307.

The structure itself is a work of art, designed by master architect Eliel Saarinen.

The Centre was built in two architectural styles by Eliel Saarinen. They are the Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles.

The centre also has permanent collections, which you can see whenever you visit.

Some of these works are by well-known artists such as Rodin, Monet, Matisse, O’Keefe, and many others.

Temporary exhibits are displayed separately from permanent exhibits and are typically displayed in the main gallery. 

Some of these works of art can be kept for up to three months before being returned.

In addition to the main building, there are some sculptures outside in the rose garden.

4700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50307.

20. Jasper Vineyards

Jasper Winery began in the year 2000 

when Jean and Paul Groben planted grapevines just outside of Newton.

They only relocated the winery to George Flagg Parkway in downtown Des Moines in 2008, as the business grew.

 If you want to find them right now, this is the current location.

If you want to be a part of a wine trend, they should be on your list of things to do in Des Moines.

There are tasting rooms at the winery, and Visitors are permitted to sample some of the wines made from grapes and vines harvested from their various vineyards located throughout the state in these rooms.

They provide various levels of tours and tasting experiences. Some of them last 90 minutes and include an educational VIP Tasting and Tour.

Other tasting experiences available at Jasper Winery include wine and chocolate pairings and wine and cheese pairings.

The winery also hosts events such as jewellery classes, summer concert series, and so on.

21. The East Village

The East Village is bounded to the south and west by the Des Moines River, to the east by East 14th Street, and to the north by Interstate 235. 

East Village is a commercial and residential neighbourhood in downtown Des Moines.

The Iowa State Capitol, the State of Iowa Historical Museum, and many other notable buildings can be found in the East Village.

There are also buildings on the US National Register of Historic Places, such as the Hohberger Building, Northwestern Hotel, Municipal Building, and many more.

History shows that many of these structures were scheduled for demolition at one point, but the project was halted due to citizen intervention.

Some of those structures are now used as shops, restaurants, and residences.

This part of Des Moines is never quiet because it hosts a variety of events.

22. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a 14-acre botanical garden located on Robert D.Ray Drive, just off the east bank of the Des Moines River. 

This is a popular attraction in Des Moines and should be on your list of things to do in Des Moines.

The garden first opened as the city’s greenhouse in 1939.

 It was later transformed into the Botanical Garden Facility, which it is today, in 1979.

If you leave Des Moines without visiting the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, you will be missing out on one of the city’s most beautiful attractions.

More than 1,200 plant varieties are on display right in the garden.

Some of the collections you’ll find here include Orchids, Bonsai, Amaryllis, and many more.

The garden occasionally hosts events such as Story Sprouts, Yoga at the Garden, Fall Gardening, and Grain Growers – An Apple a Day.

23. Tacopocalypse

Sam Auen, a man with a colourful personality, used street food, such as tacos, to bridge something that would have people travelling long distances to enjoy.

Chihuahua cheese, Bacon Chorizo, Poblano Potatoes, and Scrambled Eggs are used in the creation of ICBINBB.

All of this was rolled into a massive flour tortilla, which was then drenched with house gravy and bits of breakfast sausage. The menu includes vegetarian and vegan options.

Des Moines, Iowa is located at 407 East 5th Street.

24. The Downtown Farmers’ Market

The Downtown Farmers’ Market is normally held along Court Avenue. 

Court Avenue is in the Downtown Historic Court District of Dad Moines.

Truly, this market has been connecting both the urban and rural communities in Iowa for more than 40 years.

In the market, you will find craftsmen, farmers, bakers, and over 300 artists. The farmers who are found in this market all come from 58 counties in Iowa.

Some of the things you could buy in this market include fresh fruits, eggs, cheese, vegetables, flowers, herbs, etc.

You can also buy fish and varieties of meats like pork, chicken, goat, beef, lamb, and turkey.

At certain seasons of the year, the market hosts special events like festivals where several guest artists will be invited.

25. Proof

“Proof of anything silences all debate.” This statement appears to be echoed by Proof, the restaurant. This should be on your “what to do in Des Moines today” list.

Chef Sean Wilson creates delectable dishes that keep them at the top. He creates world-class dishes using seasonal ingredients sourced from North Africa and the Mediterranean.

He combines them to create dishes that will blow their customer’s minds.

I’m sure you haven’t tried some of her dishes. Their menu features roasted bone marrow, watermelon tartar, mushroom ragu, and a lot of cash.

The menu is constantly changing, allowing customers to try new things. I recommend that you start your good tour here.

26. Terrace Hill 

Terrace Hill is the official residence of Iowa’s governor. It is situated on a hill overlooking downtown Des Moines and is now one of the city’s points of interest.

Terrace Hill is known by a variety of names. The Iowa Governor’s Mansion, the Hubbell Mansion, and the Benjamin F. Allen House are just a few examples.

The building was designed in the Second Empire style of architecture. It was designated a US National Historic Landmark in 2003.

It is known as the Benjamin Franklin Allen House because he built this 18,000 square foot mansion with a 90-foot tower in 1869.

Visitors are permitted to tour the mansion as long as a guide is with them.

27. Americana

Americana is an urban restaurant and lounge in downtown Des Moines that serves some of the best contemporary New American and European cuisine.

The Pappajohn Sculpture Garden, one of Des Moines’ top attractions, can be seen from the lounge.

Americana provides more than just food; they also provide guests with drinks to help them relax before and after they eat.

If you want to go on a romantic getaway with your loved one, this should be on your list of things to do in Des Moines.

On the menu, you’ll find prime steaks and chops, Asian-inspired sharing plates, gourmet burgers, fresh salads and sides, and a plethora of delectable desserts.

They also have a bar section that carries the best beers and wines. You could also order some handcrafted beer and wines that are both local and foreign. 

28. Centro

Centro is located in downtown Des Moines in an ex-Masonic Temple that has been expertly restored.

Centro is one of the city’s most popular restaurants, and it’s also a great place to go for a nice date. 

If you’re visiting Des Moines with a loved one, this should be a romantic spot, and it’s certainly a nice addition to your list of places to go to in Des Moines.

Its menu reveals that it specializes in Contemporary Italian-inspired cuisines prepared by the two house chefs, Jon Baker and George Formaro.

Mama’s Meatballs, pork show Milanese, Italian meat-and-cheese plate, and cheese-and-prosciutto-stuffed chicken are among the dishes available in Centro.

The surrounding is cool and loving, no doubt this is an ideal place to spend time eating or grabbing a drink with a loved one. 

You could visit Centro any time of the day as it serves both breakfast, lunch and dinner as well.

29. Django

The Django, a downtown brasserie on1420 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, is a restaurant in Des Moines with a very charming and inviting setting.

Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a good choice for families. 

You will adore their French dishes, which are prepared with local and seasonal ingredients.

Beef Bourguignon, Bouillabaisse, Lobster Spaghetti, Filet Rossini, and Seared Sea Scallops are among the dishes on their menu.

They also have an impressive wine list.

Django is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

30. Flying Mango

Flying Mango is a restaurant with an open kitchen that caters to any event, from romantic dinners for two to wedding receptions.

Michael Wedeking and Suzanne Van Englehoven are the owners of the flying mango. It’s also run by the two of them.

Smoked brisket, seared yellowfin tuna, lime and garlic chicken, cajun catfish, and Memphis style ribs are among the dishes on their menu.

Flying mango restaurant is located at 4345 Hickman Rd Des Moines, Iowa 50310

31. Irina’s Restaurant and Bar

Irina’s Restaurant and Bar

is a family-run establishment that specializes in traditional Russian and American cuisine.

They have an excellent menu that includes traditional American fare such as fresh salads, hearty burgers, and prime steaks.

You’ll also enjoy their Russian sausages such as the Moscow Filet, Wellington Salmon, pork shashlik, and beef-stroganoff.

Don’t forget to pair these dishes with one of the fine wines available.

It is located at Rocklyn Drive 

Urbandale, Des Moines, Iowa 50322,

32. Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse is strategically located on Fleur Drive, just a few minutes from the Des Moines International Airport.

It is a traditional steakhouse that serves prime steaks as well as a variety of Italian cuisine and seafood.

Aside from steaks, they also serve a variety of fine wines. You will adore this location. Every week, from Monday to Sunday, they only serve lunch and dinner.

6800 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, Iowa 50321

33. Greys lake 

Gray’s Lake on Des Moines’ south side is a favourite spot for every family to spend a nice day. If you haven’t been yet, you should go! 

The walking/biking trail is my personal favourite feature of Gray’s Lake. 

The lake’s perimeter is circled by a two-mile trail. Restrooms are located along the route, which we all know is essential when travelling with children!

Gray’s Lake has a great deal to offer. Bicycles are available for rent for both children and adults beginning in mid-April if you don’t want to bring your own. 

Canoeing, bird watching classes, yoga, and other activities are also available at the lake.

 There is enough space to play catch with the kids or spread out a blanket for a picnic. 

Also, of course, your children will enjoy climbing on the playground! With spring just around the corner, there will be plenty of activities for the whole family at the lake.

34. Wells Fargo arena 

Wells Fargo Arena, owned by Polk County and managed professionally by Spectra, is a 17,000-seat arena that opened on July 12, 2005. 

The Iowa Events Center complex, which also includes Hy-Vee Hall and the Community Choice Convention Center, includes the arena. 

Wells Fargo Arena hosts the Iowa High School Wrestling and Girls and Boys Basketball Tournaments each year. 

The arena is also home to three professional sports teams: the NBA G-Iowa League’s Wolves, the AHL’s Iowa Wild, and the IFL’s Iowa Barnstormers.

Apart from being used for sporting events, Wells Fargo Arena hosts world-class performers and is unfailingly ranked as one of the top 100 concert venues in the world in terms of concert attendance. 

Artists like Carrie Underwood, Twenty One Pilots, Luke Combs, Cardi B, and Shawn Mendes are among the artists who have recently performed at Wells Fargo Arena. 

The arena also hosts family shows such as Disney On Ice, Monster Jam, the Harlem Globetrotters, and others.

Conclusion. 

So far, we have seen 34 different and wonderful locations that should be on your list of ” must visit ” places in Des Moines. 

As it was mentioned at the onset, there are many beautiful places to see, places to visit and feed your eyes, delicious food to enjoy, and generally, something that suits the needs of everyone.

From children to couples, family, workmates, small parties, and private events. There is a place and activity for everyone.

Planning a trip to Des Moines is easy and will not engulf too many expenses, yet guarantee you the best experience.  

No doubt this is an ideal place to make the most use of your holiday or to spend a well-deserved vacation. 

Just a one-time visit and you will want to stay longer than expected, because of how much you will enjoy your stay in Des Moines. 

So, with all these gather up some money, and prepare to just relax and enjoy a well deserved getaway in Des Moin!

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