Des Moines offers a vibrant cultural scene, creative restaurants, and charming town squares, guaranteeing an exciting variety of activities. With 20 metro stations providing easy access to top attractions like the Iowa State Fair, the Des Moines Art Center, and Wells Fargo Arena, it’s a top destination for visitors. If you’re thinking about visiting the capital city of Iowa this summer, here are the top 8 things to do in Des Moines for people of all ages.
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Best Things to Do in Des Moines
Did we mention that Des Moines is one of our top picks for places to live in Iowa? Even if you’re not thinking of moving there anytime soon, get to know the city by visiting one of its must-see attractions.
Iowa State Fair
The Iowa State Fair is the single largest event in the state of Iowa, attracting more than a million people a year with its amusement rides, free concerts, and Iowa’s largest parade. The annual summer festival is held over an 11-day period every August as a celebration of Iowa’s agriculture and fine arts. Ride the Sky Glider, check out a livestock contest, and visit the fair’s history museum. After all is said and done, take a break from the August heat in the fairground’s Agricultural Building, where you can marvel at the 600-pound Butter Cow sculpture.
Countless vendors compete for the People’s Choice Awards, featuring 200 fun festival foods with over 50 mouth-watering snack items served on a stick. There are even gluten-free options! Come to the corn state, compete in cornhole tossing, and leave spirited with a corn dog in hand.
Des Moines Art Center
The Des Moines Art Center is a free and accessible art museum located in downtown Des Moines. Over 300,000 visitors per year come from all over the globe to gaze at the gallery of modern and contemporary art. The permanent collection includes works by Andy Warhol, Takashi Murakami, and other local and international artists.
About two miles east of the Des Moines Art Center is the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, an expansion of the Art Center. The Pappajohn Sculpture Park features artwork from more than two dozen artists. Since its opening in 2009, the park received more than 30 donations of artworks, making the location a significant symbol of the Des Moines community and a delightful pick for your afternoon stroll.
Wells Fargo Arena
Catch a basketball game or a concert by your favorite performer at the Wells Fargo Arena. The multi-purpose arena spans 17,000 seats and ranks consistently in the top 100 concert venues as ranked by Pollstar Magazine. Wells Fargo Arena has hosted performers such as Cardi B, Cher, Twenty One Pilots, Elton John, and Carrie Underwood. The venue is also home to the EMC Expo Center and the Community Choice Convention Center, with skywalk access to hotels, restaurants, and nightlife.
Best Things to Do in Des Moines for Young Adults
Des Moines has some of the best activities for young adults ranging from exploring scenic outdoor attractions to uncovering locals’ favorite hangouts and entertainment hot spots.
Hiking Trails
Spanning across a distance of over 800 miles, the scenic hiking trails of Des Moines are not only great for exercise but also give an unparalleled view of the natural sights in the area. The High Trestle Trail provides a panoramic view of the Des Moines River, while the Chichaqua Valley Trail crosses over the Skunk River. Whether you’re a nature photographer or seeking a prime photo opportunity for your Instagram, the trails have you covered.
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Downtown Farmer’s Market
Do a-maize-ing vegetables make your heart beet faster? Every Saturday morning from May through October, the Downtown Farmer’s Market sets up shop in the Downtown Historic Court District, boasting a hearty selection of produce from over 300 vendors. The Farmer’s Market is also why we ranked Des Moines as one of the top places to live in Iowa! If you’re visiting in the summertime, you simply cannot miss out on the market.
Smash Park
Smash Park is a popular hang-out spot among locals, featuring Iowa’s largest patio along with food, drinks, and sports. From the rising pickleball craze to even an arcade, Smash Park has everything you need for a fun day out with friends.
Best Things To Do In Des Moines For Couples
Planning a day in Des Moines with your special someone? From romantic gardens to inventive restaurants, the city has plenty to offer to couples. Here are some of the best things to do in Des Moines for couples so you and your love can have an unforgettable night out.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a 12-acre public garden, doubling as both a low-budget date spot and a romantic event venue for impressing your crush. January through March of this year, the garden is intent on helping couples find true love with their Dome After Dark events.
What if you’re visiting during the summer instead? Worry not, you’ll still catch one of their Music in the Garden concerts, and impress your date with your shared appreciation for live music. If things go especially well with your special someone, maybe you’ll come back to the botanical garden for one of their indoor or outdoor wedding options.
Restaurants
And of course, a good date can’t end on an empty stomach! To experience the growing craft scene in Des Moines, aficionados recommend the Exile Brewing Company, El Bait Shop, and Lua Brewing for a refreshing beer and a quick bite.
If you’re looking for a booze-free night, we’ve also got you covered. Fong’s Pizza is a popular location that has gained national popularity after Food Network featured it for its signature menu item crab rangoon pizza. Zombie Burger is another popular restaurant, known for fast food and shakes that attract visitors from everywhere.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a college-bound young adult moving to Iowa or a senior embracing your wanderlust, Des Moines offers a vibrant array of experiences to pursue. Buy fresh produce at the Farmer’s Market, admire artworks at the Des Moines Art Center, or enjoy a romantic evening at the Botanical Garden. From going to local hangout spots to checking out restaurants and bars, a visit to this city will keep you as busy as a bee. Look around, have some fun! Des Moines is a buzzing city full of life, or as the locals say, “In Des Moines, only the S’s are silent.”
Winter Qiu is born and raised in New York City. They graduated from Skidmore College with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Japanese. They enjoy traveling, trying out new foods, and playing board games with friends.