Best Places to See the City Skyline in Des Moines, Iowa, United States
1. Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino
Enjoy a unique skyline view from the top floor of Prairie Meadows while experiencing gaming and dining. It's one of the few places that offers such a combination.
- Unobstructed View: Large windows offer an unobstructed view of the city skyline
- Entertainment Hub: Casino, dining, and events make this a popular entertainment destination.
- Day or Night Experience: Both daytime and nighttime skyline views are spectacular.
2. Des Moines Riverfront
Experience the city's vibrant energy along the Des Moines River. The riverfront park offers a unique vantage point for the skyline.
- Natural Beauty: Combines urban development with natural beauty along the river.
- Evening Light Show: Enjoy the evening light show that illuminates key city landmarks.
- Active Community Space: A bustling community space with events, activities, and food vendors.
3. Kum & Go Park
This park offers a unique perspective of the city skyline from a downtown vantage point. Enjoy a picnic or a leisurely walk.
- Historic Perspective: Located on the site of the original Des Moines Stockyards.
- Urban Oasis: A quiet, peaceful urban oasis in the heart of downtown.
- City Landmarks View: Offers a clear view of several key city landmarks.
4. Temple for Performing Arts
The Temple for Performing Arts is an iconic building that offers a stunning skyline view. Attend a show or simply admire the architecture.
- Iconic Architecture: A unique blend of modern and classical architecture.
- Performing Arts: Hosts a variety of performing arts events throughout the year.
- Rooftop Terrace: Features a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the city skyline.
5. Grand View Park
Located on high ground, Grand View Park offers a panoramic view of the entire Des Moines skyline.
- Panoramic View: Provides a wide, unobstructed view of the city skyline.
- Historic Significance: Situated on the highest point in Des Moines, with historical significance.
- Scenic Overlooks: Multiple scenic overlooks offer various perspectives of the skyline.
6. Downtown Farmers' Market
Visit the downtown farmers' market on Saturday mornings for fresh produce and a unique view of the skyline.
- Fresh Produce: Offers a wide variety of locally grown produce.
- Community Gathering: A vibrant community gathering place on Saturdays.
- Skyline Viewpoint: Located near the river, offering a unique skyline view.
7. Science Center of Iowa
The Science Center of Iowa features a rooftop observatory with a breathtaking city skyline view.
- Educational Experience: Provides educational, hands-on science exhibits.
- Rooftop Observatory: Features a rooftop observatory with stunning skyline views.
- Night Sky Viewing: Offers night sky viewing opportunities through their telescopes.
8. Jordan Park Tower
Climb the Jordan Park Tower for a breathtaking view of the city skyline and the Des Moines River.
- Historic Tower: A historic landmark built in 1932.
- River and Skyline View: Offers a view of both the river and the city skyline.
- Bird's Eye Perspective: Provides a unique bird's eye perspective of the city.
9. Principal Park
Catch a baseball game at Principal Park and enjoy the skyline view from the stands.
- Baseball Games: Home of the Des Moines Skyhawks.
- Skyline View from Stands: Offers a unique skyline view from the stands during games.
- Food and Drinks: Enjoy food and drinks while taking in the game and the city skyline.
10. Grey's Lake Regional Park
Grey's Lake offers a unique vantage point for the city skyline while enjoying outdoor activities.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities.
- Skyline Viewpoint: Provides a unique view of the city skyline from the lake.
- Nature and Urban Blend: A blend of nature and urban development around the lake.
11. Wells Fargo Arena
Attend a concert or sporting event at Wells Fargo Arena for an up-close skyline view.
- Entertainment Venue: A premier entertainment and sports venue in Des Moines.
- Skyline View from Seats: Offers a skyline view from many seats during events.
- Variety of Events: Hosts a variety of concerts, sporting events, and family shows.
12. John & Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Stroll through the sculpture park and catch a glimpse of the city skyline.
- Outdoor Art Gallery: An outdoor art gallery featuring over 30 sculptures.
- Skyline Viewpoint: Offers a unique view of the city skyline from within the park.
- Artistic and Cultural Experience: Provides an artistic and cultural experience in an outdoor setting.
13. Brenton Skating Plaza
Visit the Brenton Skating Plaza during winter for a unique city skyline view while ice skating.
- Winter Activity: An ice skating rink open during the winter season.
- Skyline View from Rink: Offers a unique view of the city skyline from the rink.
- Architectural Landmarks: Surrounded by architectural landmarks, including the State Capitol.
14. Des Moines Botanical Garden
Visit the Des Moines Botanical Garden and enjoy a serene view of the city skyline.
- Botanical Beauty: Features beautiful, exotic plants and gardens.
- Skyline Viewpoint: Offers a unique view of the city skyline from within the garden.
- Relaxing Environment: A peaceful, relaxing environment for visitors to enjoy.
15. High Trestle Trail Bridge
Experience a unique skyline view while crossing the High Trestle Trail Bridge.
- Biking or Hiking: A popular destination for bikers and hikers.
- Skyline View from Bridge: Offers a unique view of the city skyline while crossing the bridge.
- Light Art Installation: Features a stunning light art installation on the bridge.