What to do in Central Iowa, IA

Activities, attractions and tours

Iowa State University showing a lake or waterhole and heritage architecture
Reiman Gardens featuring a park and signage as well as a family
Iowa State Capitol Building featuring a park and heritage architecture
Reiman Gardens showing a garden and wild flowers
Des Moines Art Center featuring art and interior views

Places to Visit in Central Iowa

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Central Iowa, Iowa while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Central Iowa attractions from NZ$27, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Central Iowa tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 2 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Central Iowa. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.


    find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
    calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
    trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

What to do in Central Iowa


Discover the most popular places to visit in Central Iowa

Explore areas of Central Iowa

State Historical Society of Iowa Museum which includes a high-rise building, a city and landscape views

Downtown Des Moines

4/5(1 area review)

The abundant dining options and live music are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Des Moines. A stop by 801 Grand or Des Moines Civic Center might round out your trip.

Downtown Des Moines
Historic East Village

Historic East Village

Find beautiful government buildings, cultural attractions and a garden oasis in this older section of the city extending along a pretty riverfront.

Historic East Village
Default Image

Court District

Travellers come to Court District for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Science Center of Iowa and Des Moines' Downtown Farmers' Market while you're in town.

Court District
Default Image

Drake

While visiting Drake, you might make a stop by sights like Knapp Center and Des Moines Community Playhouse.

Drake
Grays Lake featuring a lake or waterhole

Greater South Side

4/5(2 area reviews)

While there might not be top attractions in Greater South Side, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Air Lanes Bowling Center and Gray’s Lake Park.

Greater South Side
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park which includes outdoor art, a garden and a city

Western Gateway

While visiting Western Gateway, you might make a stop by sights like John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park and Pappajohn Sculpture Park.

Western Gateway

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Central Iowa