What to do in Des Moines, IA

Activities, attractions and tours
Des Moines Botanical Center featuring a garden and interior views

Places to Visit in Des Moines

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Des Moines

Explore areas of Des Moines

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

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 Des Moines Civic Center or Science Center of Iowa might round out your trip.

Downtown Des Moines
Historic East Village

Historic East Village

Historic East Village is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Iowa State Capitol Building and Wooly's while you're in town.

Historic East Village
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Court District

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

Court District
Grays Lake showing 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 Gray’s Lake Park and Lauridsen Amphitheater.

Greater South Side
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Beaverdale

While Beaverdale isn't home to many top sights, Merle Hay Mall and Des Moines Art Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

Beaverdale
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Lovington

Lovington is popular for its ample dining options, and you might make a stop by Merle Hay Mall, a top place to visit in the area.

Lovington

Day trip destinations from Des Moines