Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Des Moines, Iowa, United States

All Topics about Des Moines All Cities in United States

1. Jordan Creek Town Center

A large shopping mall featuring over 100 stores and restaurants for a diverse retail experience.

Variety of Shops: From clothing to electronics, you'll find a wide range of shops catering to different preferences.
Dining Options: A plethora of food choices, from casual dining to upscale eateries.
Entertainment Venues: Cinemas and live entertainment venues for a complete shopping experience.

A museum showcasing American art from the 19th century to the present, housed in three buildings.

Rotating Exhibitions: Regularly updated collections from renowned artists and unique exhibits.
Architectural Beauty: Three buildings, each showcasing distinct styles of modern architecture.
Art Workshops: Hands-on workshops and classes for visitors to learn from professional artists.

A temporary exhibit of Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, Salvator Mundi, in the Des Moines Art Center.

Leonardo da Vinci's Masterpiece: The only known surviving painting by Leonardo da Vinci.
Royal Provenance: Originally owned by King Louis XIV of France, this painting has a rich and intriguing history.
Limited Display: A rare opportunity to see this masterpiece in Des Moines before it returns to its permanent home.

A beautiful oasis featuring tropical plants, waterfalls, and themed gardens.

Variety of Themed Gardens: Gardens showcasing different plant species from around the world.
Conservatory: Tropical plants thrive in this enclosed, climate-controlled space.
Special Events: Events like concerts and art exhibitions held throughout the year.

An impressive state capitol building with beautiful architecture and historical significance.

Architectural Style: A blend of Renaissance Revival and Beaux-Arts styles, the capitol is a stunning example of early 20th-century architecture.
Guided Tours: Tour the beautiful interior, including the ornate Senate and House chambers.
Statues and Mosaics: Explore over 140 statues and mosaics depicting important figures in Iowa's history.

A family-friendly zoo with a wide variety of animals and educational programs.

Animal Diversity: A diverse collection of over 1,500 animals representing more than 300 species.
Conservation Efforts: The zoo is dedicated to conservation and breeding programs for endangered species.
Educational Programs: Interactive exhibits, animal feedings, and educational talks about the animals and their habitats.

Public art installations throughout downtown Des Moines that celebrate local culture.

Cultural Significance: Artwork that reflects the history and values of the community.
Walking Tour: A self-guided tour map available online to explore the public art installations.
Locally Created Art: Artwork created by local and regional artists, promoting a sense of pride in the community.

An outdoor park featuring sculptures by renowned contemporary artists.

Sculptures by Prominent Artists: Works by artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Henry Moore, and Jaume Plensa.
Free Admission: The park is free to enter and open 24 hours a day.
Guided Tours: Free guided tours are available on Saturdays at 10:30 am during the summer months.

A community center featuring a theater, art gallery, and bar, promoting local culture and creativity.

Multi-purpose Venue: A hub for theater performances, visual arts exhibitions, and social events.
Community Engagement: Workshops, classes, and events that encourage community members to engage with the arts.
Support Local Artists: A platform for local artists to showcase their work and grow their careers.

An exhibit featuring larger-than-life sculptures made from found objects at the Des Moines Social Club.

Artistic Vision: A unique take on the traditional art exhibition, showcasing a contemporary artist's vision.
Interactive Experience: Visitors can interact with and explore the sculptures, fostering a more immersive experience.
Found Objects: Sculptures created from recycled materials, promoting sustainability and creativity.