This midwestern capital city has a vibrant arts scene, with the Des Moines Art Center and Science Center drawing visitors. The Iowa State Fair attracts millions each summer.
Des Moines, Iowa's capital city, welcomes you with its striking gold-domed State Capitol, modern art installations at Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and 45 miles of connecting trails. You can view Edward Hopper and Georgia O'Keeffe masterpieces at the Des Moines Art Center, join thousands at the Iowa State Fair in August, or cycle through 76 city parks.
Exploring Downtown Des Moines
The Iowa State Capitol's five domes rise above the city skyline - its central golden dome flanked by four smaller ones. Walk through the interior to see 29 types of marble, historical murals, and the sweeping grand staircase. In the East Village, you'll find boutiques and cafes housed in restored 1800s buildings. At the 4.4-acre Pappajohn Sculpture Park, 28 contemporary sculptures dot the green space, creating an open-air gallery in the heart of downtown.
Cultural Venues and Museums
Three acclaimed architects - I.M. Pei, Eliel Saarinen, and Richard Meier - each designed a section of the Des Moines Art Center. At the Science Center of Iowa, you can stargaze in the planetarium and try hands-on experiments about space, engineering, and natural sciences. The geodesic dome at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden maintains a warm climate year-round, allowing you to walk among 15,000 tropical and desert plants even during snowy Iowa winters.
Parks and Recreation
Walk or cycle along both sides of the Des Moines River on the Principal Riverwalk, which connects to the city's broader trail system. At Gray's Lake Park, you can complete a 2-mile loop around the lake and cross the LED-illuminated bridge that changes colors after dark. Winter brings ice skating to Brenton Skating Plaza, while summer activities include paddle boating and concerts by the river.
Food and Drink Scene
Try Steak de Burgo, a Des Moines original that combines beef tenderloin with Italian herbs and butter sauce. From May through October, more than 300 vendors gather at the Downtown Farmers' Market to sell produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat meals. Sample locally-made beers at Confluence Brewing Company and Lua Brewing, two of the city's craft breweries.
Annual Events
Watch sculptors carve the famous butter cow at the Iowa State Fair in August, alongside livestock shows and Iowa's take on deep-fried cuisine. Western Gateway Park transforms into an art gallery during the Des Moines Arts Festival in June, with artist displays, musicians, and food stalls. The World Food & Music Festival in September fills three days with international cooking demonstrations and live performances.
