Best Time to Visit Popular Destinations in Des Moines, Iowa, United States

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1. Jester Park Nature Center

Enjoy the tranquility of Jester Park's wildlife and nature exhibits. Ideal for families and nature lovers.

Seasonal Wildlife: Spring brings baby animals, while fall offers colorful foliage.
Nature Programs: Offers educational programs and guided walks for visitors.
Hiking Trails: Features miles of hiking trails through various terrains.

Experience the diversity of animals at Blank Park Zoo. Best visited during summer for maximum wildlife interaction.

Species Diversity: Home to over 140 species, including giraffes, orangutans, and penguins.
Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts for endangered species like the Amur Leopard.
Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits and shows for an engaging experience.

Immerse yourself in modern and contemporary art. The center is especially vibrant during the summer months.

Rotating Exhibitions: Features rotating exhibits showcasing artists from around the world.
Architectural Beauty: Set in three unique buildings, each with its own architectural charm.
Educational Programs: Offers workshops, tours, and lectures for visitors of all ages.

Explore lush gardens filled with plants from around the world. Spring and summer offer the best floral displays.

Garden Themes: Features themed gardens, such as the Japanese Garden and Tropical Conservatory.
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs, workshops, and guided tours for visitors.
Seasonal Events: Hosts events like the Garden of Lights during holiday seasons.

Marvel at the architectural beauty of Iowa's state capitol. Visit in the spring for blooming gardens and warm weather.

Architectural Masterpiece: A National Historic Landmark, featuring stunning marble interiors.
Guided Tours: Offers guided tours for visitors, including a tour of the underground tunnels.
Historical Artifacts: Features historical artifacts and displays throughout the building.

Experience arts, culture, and entertainment at Des Moines Social Club. Visit in the fall for unique events and performances.

Arts and Performance Spaces: Features multiple performance spaces, including a theater and art gallery.
Community Engagement: Engages the community through classes, workshops, and events.
Bar and Cafe: Includes a bar and cafe for refreshments during your visit.

Appreciate contemporary sculptures in an outdoor setting. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking around.

Outdoor Art Gallery: Features over 30 contemporary sculptures by renowned artists.
Free Admission: Admission is always free for visitors.
Walking Trails: Includes walking trails for a self-guided tour of the sculptures.

Step back in time at Salisbury House, a historic mansion with beautiful gardens. Best visited during the summer months.

Historic Mansion: Built in the Tudor Revival style, featuring lavish interiors and artwork.
Garden Tours: Offers guided garden tours to learn about the various plant species.
Special Events: Hosts special events like holiday teas and concerts throughout the year.

Enjoy a round of golf at one of Des Moines' public courses. The spring and fall offer mild weather for outdoor activities.

Multiple Course Options: Includes several public courses with varying difficulty levels.
Affordable Rates: Offers affordable rates for residents and non-residents alike.
Club Rentals: Rents golf clubs for those without their own equipment.

Experience local produce, crafts, and food at the Des Moines Farmers' Market. Best visited during the summer months.

Locally Sourced Goods: Offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts from local vendors.
Live Music and Entertainment: Features live music and entertainment throughout the market.
Community Gathering Place: Serves as a community gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Explore diverse plant species at The Iowa Arboretum. Spring and summer offer the most vibrant displays.

Diverse Plant Species: Features over 400 species of trees, shrubs, and wildflowers.
Trails and Education: Offers walking trails and educational programs about the plant life.
Seasonal Events: Hosts seasonal events like fall leaf-peeping tours and winter holiday lights displays.

Experience world-class orchestral music at Des Moines Symphony Orchestra performances. Best visited during the fall and winter seasons.

World-Class Performances: Performs classical, pops, and family-friendly concerts throughout the year.
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for children and adults alike.
Concert Venues: Performs at venues like the Civic Center and the Temple for Performing Arts.

Explore Des Moines by bike on its extensive trail network. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for cycling.

Extensive Trail Network: Includes over 100 miles of interconnected trails throughout the city.
Scenic Routes: Offers scenic routes through parks, historic neighborhoods, and along the Des Moines River.
Bike Rentals: Rents bikes for those without their own equipment.

Take a leisurely stroll along the Des Moines Riverwalk. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for enjoying the sights.

Scenic Views: Offers scenic views of the Des Moines River, bridges, and downtown Des Moines.
Restaurants and Shops: Features restaurants, shops, and art installations along the way.
Events and Festivals: Hosts events and festivals throughout the year, like the Riverwalk Jazz Festival.

Step back in time at Living History Farms. Best visited during the summer months for a complete experience.

Historical Reenactments: Features historical reenactments and exhibits from different eras of Iowa's history.
Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits for a hands-on experience.
Guided Tours: Provides guided tours of the historical farms and buildings.