
Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Des Moines, Iowa, United States
1. Des Moines Catholic Cathedral
A stunning French Gothic-style cathedral and the mother church of the Diocese of Des Moines.
- Architectural Beauty: Features intricate stained glass windows and ornate statues.
- Historical Significance: Built in the early 20th century, it showcases the city's rich religious history.
- Spiritual Experience: Offers daily mass and tours for visitors.
2. Drake Memorial Library
A beautiful and peaceful chapel located within Drake University, featuring a stunning stained-glass dome.
- Artistic Design: The stained-glass dome is one of the largest in North America.
- Academic Setting: Surrounded by the university's campus, it offers a unique educational experience.
- Tranquil Atmosphere: Provides a quiet space for reflection and meditation.
3. Prairie City Convention Center
A unique venue hosting events that often include spiritual gatherings and conferences.
- Versatile Space: Accommodates large events, making it a popular choice for religious events.
- Central Location: Conveniently located in downtown Des Moines, with easy access to accommodations and dining.
- Modern Facilities: State-of-the-art audio and visual equipment for enhanced event experiences.
4. St. Ambrose Catholic Church
A beautiful Italian Renaissance-style church known for its beautiful frescoes.
- Artistic Frescoes: Features stunning frescoes by famed artist Dunstan Eidemiller.
- Historical Significance: Built in the early 20th century, it is a significant piece of Des Moines' religious history.
- Spiritual Events: Offers daily mass and hosts various spiritual events throughout the year.
5. Akhil Bharat Hindu Temple
One of the largest Hindu temples in the Midwest, showcasing traditional Indian architecture and artistry.
- Cultural Immersion: Visitors can experience traditional Indian culture and rituals.
- Architectural Marvel: Features intricate carvings, sculptures, and vibrant colors.
- Spiritual Experience: Offers guided tours, daily prayers, and festivals throughout the year.
6. Des Moines Buddhist Temple
A serene temple dedicated to the practice of Buddhism, featuring a beautiful garden and meditation hall.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a tranquil space for meditation and reflection.
- Cultural Education: Offers classes on Buddhism and meditation practices.
- Community Engagement: Hosts community events, such as lectures and cultural festivals.
7. World Peace Bell
A large bell dedicated to promoting world peace and understanding among nations.
- Symbol of Peace: Rings on the hour, symbolizing unity and harmony.
- Public Access: Open to visitors during daylight hours for viewing and ringing.
- Community Gathering: Hosts events promoting peace, understanding, and community engagement.
8. Brenton Arboretum
A peaceful outdoor space featuring over 900 species of trees and plants, with a chapel located within.
- Natural Beauty: Offers beautiful scenery for reflection and meditation.
- Spiritual Connection: The on-site chapel offers services and quiet spaces for prayer.
- Educational Opportunities: Provides guided tours, workshops, and educational programs about trees and nature.
9. UnityPoint Health Methodist-Des Moines
A healthcare facility with a strong emphasis on spiritual care for patients.
- Compassionate Care: Offers spiritual support to patients and families during difficult times.
- Religious Diversity: Supports multiple faiths, with chapels, prayer rooms, and religious services available.
- Community Outreach: Provides spiritual resources to the broader community, such as counseling and support groups.
10. Grand View University Chapel of All Saints
A beautiful chapel located on the campus of Grand View University, offering a peaceful space for reflection.
- Artistic Design: Features stunning stained-glass windows and beautiful architecture.
- Academic Setting: Surrounded by the university's campus, it offers a unique educational experience.
- Spiritual Experience: Offers daily mass and tours for visitors.
11. St. Pius X Catholic Church
A beautiful parish church featuring stunning stained-glass windows and intricate architecture.
- Artistic Beauty: Features stunning stained-glass windows and ornate statues.
- Historical Significance: Built in the mid-20th century, it showcases the city's religious history.
- Spiritual Experience: Offers daily mass and tours for visitors.
12. St. Theresa Catholic Church
A beautiful church featuring stunning stained-glass windows and intricate architecture.
- Artistic Beauty: Features stunning stained-glass windows and ornate statues.
- Historical Significance: Built in the early 20th century, it showcases the city's religious history.
- Spiritual Experience: Offers daily mass and tours for visitors.
13. Buddhist Temple of Des Moines
A small but significant Buddhist temple offering spiritual services and cultural education.
- Cultural Education: Offers classes on Buddhism and meditation practices.
- Spiritual Experience: Provides guided tours, daily prayers, and meditation sessions.
- Community Engagement: Hosts community events, such as lectures and cultural festivals.
14. Zion Lutheran Church
A historic church featuring stunning stained-glass windows and beautiful architecture.
- Artistic Beauty: Features stunning stained-glass windows and ornate statues.
- Historical Significance: Built in the late 19th century, it showcases the city's religious history.
- Spiritual Experience: Offers daily services and tours for visitors.
15. Unitarian Universalist Church of Des Moines
A progressive church welcoming people from all faiths and backgrounds.
- Inclusive Environment: Embraces diversity and encourages open dialogue about spirituality.
- Spiritual Growth: Offers religious services, classes, and workshops for personal growth.
- Community Engagement: Supports various social justice causes and offers community service opportunities.