Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Des Moines, Iowa, United States

All Topics about Des Moines All Cities in United States

1. Abandoned Psychiatric Hospital

Explore the eerie and haunting abandoned St. Joseph's Psychiatric Hospital, a once bustling mental health facility now standing in ruins.

Historical Significance: Provides a unique insight into the history of mental health treatment.
Photography Opportunities: Offers fascinating urban exploration and photo opportunities.
Urban Legend Atmosphere: Surrounded by local legends and ghost stories, adds to the mysterious allure.

Visit a tropical oasis filled with venomous snakes and dangerous spiders at the Predators & Prey exhibit.

Educational Experience: Provides an educational experience about reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids.
Interactive Encounters: Allows for interactive encounters with venomous creatures under the supervision of experts.
Rare and Exotic Species: Features rare and exotic species from around the world.

Marvel at the intricate and innovative machines inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's designs at this interactive exhibit.

Innovative Inventions: Showcases some of Leonardo da Vinci's most groundbreaking inventions.
Interactive Engagement: Allows visitors to interact with and learn about the machines.
Artistic Inspiration: Inspires artistic creativity while learning about scientific innovation.

Experience a creative and eclectic mix of art, theater, music, and food at this unique community center.

Cultural Exchange: Provides a platform for cultural exchange and artistic expression.
Community Gathering Space: Serves as a central gathering space for the local community.
Unique Culinary Offerings: Offers unique culinary experiences at its on-site restaurant and café.

Discover a treasure trove of salvaged items and antiques at this one-of-a-kind outdoor marketplace.

Vintage Finds: Features an ever-changing collection of vintage finds.
DIY Projects: Provides materials for DIY projects and upcycling ideas.
Sustainable Shopping Experience: Promotes a sustainable shopping experience by reusing and repurposing items.

Step into a comic book lover's paradise filled with rare comics, collectibles, and unique art.

Rare and Hard-to-Find Comics: Carries a vast collection of hard-to-find and rare comic books.
Artistic Talent Showcase: Showcases the work of local and international artists.
Collector's Haven: Provides a haven for comic book collectors and enthusiasts.

Dive into the dark side of Des Moines at this underground speakeasy and music venue.

Underground Atmosphere: Offers an authentic underground speakeasy experience.
Live Music Venue: Hosts live music performances by local and touring artists.
Prohibition-Era Cocktails: Serves creative cocktails inspired by the Prohibition era.

Experience a stunning piece of modern art at Prairie Mobius, a twisted metal sculpture standing tall amidst the prairie.

Artistic Masterpiece: Considered one of the most important pieces of modern art in Iowa.
Photography Opportunities: Provides fantastic photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Nature Appreciation: Encourages appreciation of the surrounding natural prairie landscape.

Work and relax in this unique coworking space that doubles as a café serving locally-sourced food.

Collaborative Workspace: Offers a collaborative workspace for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and creatives.
Locally-Sourced Food Options: Serves delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients.
Community Building: Promotes community building by hosting workshops and events.

Uncover the hidden speakeasy located beneath a nondescript bookstore, serving craft cocktails in a cozy atmosphere.

Speakeasy Experience: Provides an authentic Prohibition-era speakeasy experience.
Craft Cocktails: Offers a carefully curated menu of craft cocktails.
Intimate Setting: Features an intimate and atmospheric setting perfect for date nights or small gatherings.

Check out a book without even stepping inside at this unique bike-powered library.

Sustainable Design: Promotes sustainability through its innovative design and operation.
Book Accessibility: Makes books more accessible to the local community by being mobile.
Community Engagement: Encourages community engagement through book donations and events.

Marvel at the stunning stained-glass architecture of the Pickard Conservatory, home to exotic plants and palm trees.

Architectural Marvel: Features a breathtaking glass structure designed by Louis C. Tiffany.
Exotic Plant Life: Houses a variety of exotic plants, palm trees, and ferns.
Historical Significance: Is a National Historic Landmark and a testament to the craftsmanship of Louis C. Tiffany.

Discover local artistry at its finest at this gallery showcasing handmade crafts from Iowa artists.

Local Artisans Support: Supports and promotes the work of local artisans.
Unique Gift Options: Offers a diverse selection of unique gift options for friends and family.
Artistic Inspiration: Inspires artistic creativity by showcasing Iowa's rich artistic talent.

Take a leisurely stroll through this outdoor museum showcasing contemporary sculptures by renowned artists.

Artistic Showcase: Showcases works by some of the world's most celebrated contemporary artists.
Outdoor Museum Experience: Offers an outdoor museum experience, perfect for a relaxing walk.
Public Art Engagement: Promotes public art engagement and appreciation by providing free access to the park.

Step back in time at The Fitch Farm, a living history museum preserving life on an early Iowa farm.

Historical Preservation: Provides a glimpse into the daily life of early Iowa settlers.
Hands-On Experiences: Offers hands-on experiences, such as churning butter and grinding corn.
Authentic Artifacts: Features authentic artifacts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.