About Des Moines

Named after the Des Moines River meaning “River of the Monks”, the city was founded on September 22, 1851. The city of Des Moines can hardly be ignored in the history of U.S. presidential politics. As the capital of Iowa, the city is host to the first sets of the presidential primary cycle and houses several presidential campaign headquarters.

As the capital and the most populous city in the U.S. state of Iowa, the city of Des Moines is always buzzing with a ton of fun activities to do, so you can rest assured that you’ll have a swell time if you visit the city, alone or with your family.

The city has long been a fascinating spot for people looking for a refreshing getaway or just wanting to explore the many hidden treasures Des Moines has to offer. So, if are planning your next vacation to Des Moines, here are some interesting places to visit and fun things to do while you are at it:

Explore Art at the Des Moines Art Center Home to an extensive collection of artworks, the Des Moines Art Center was established in 1948 and is a must-visit if you are in Des Moines. This art museum exhibits a large collection of sculptures, paintings, mixed media, and modern art. Here, you can explore and enjoy the incredible works of notable artists including Takashi Murakami, Jasper Johns, Claude Monet, Mary Cassatt, Grant Wood, Deborah Butterfield, John Singer Sargent, many others.

Enjoy Nature at It’s Best Enjoy the beauty of over 1,200 different taxa from around the world artistically arranged at the Greater Des Moines Botanical. This botanical garden is definitely one of the most Instagram-worthy sceneries in the city and will leave you in awe.

Visit the Blank Park Zoo Located on the south side of Des Moines, Blank Park Zoo is a 49-acre zoological park opened on the 8th of May 1966 and which houses about 1,484 animals. What makes a trip to Blank Park Zoo even more worth the while is that you get to see over 104 different species of animals. Also, this zoo is the only accredited zoo in Iowa.

Spend Some Time at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park If you particularly love sculptures, then you’ll enjoy your time at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. This sculpture park was opened in 2009 and is located in the Western Gateway Park in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. Popularly known as John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, the sculpture Park contains 28 works from the Pappajohns and several works by many artists including Judith Shea, Louise Bourgeois, Jaume Plensa, and Deborah Butterfield.

Other Fun Things to Do in Des Moines: – Explore the Western Gateway Park. – Try out local food at any of the popular restaurants. – Attend exciting festivals (the Des Moines Arts Festival, the 80/35 Music Festival, and other athletic festivals and events.) – Visit the central branch of the Des Moines Public Library – Explore the Temple for Performing Arts.