Discover Des Moines - The Unexpected Gem of the Midwest

Day 1: Capitol Grandeur & Artistic Escapes

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Ritual Cafe (1301 Locust St), known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious, often vegetarian/vegan-friendly, options. Expect to spend $25-35 for two. From there, take a short drive or rideshare (approx. 5 minutes, $8-12) to the magnificent Iowa State Capitol Building (1007 E Grand Ave). Arrive by 9:30 AM to join one of the free guided tours (check schedule online, typically Monday-Friday). The architecture, dome, and legislative chambers are stunning. Allow 1.5-2 hours for the tour and self-exploration of the grounds, offering panoramic views of Des Moines.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:30 PM) Head to lunch at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab (300 E Grand Ave) for a fun, quirky, and highly-rated burger experience in the East Village. Budget $40-50 for two. After lunch, take a quick 10-minute drive or rideshare ($10-15) to the Des Moines Art Center (4700 Grand Ave). Admission is free, and you can explore its impressive collections and famous architecture by I.M. Pei, Eliel Saarinen, and Richard Meier. Allow 1.5-2 hours. Afterward, drive back towards downtown (10 minutes, $10-15) to immerse yourselves in the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park (1330 Grand Ave). This outdoor park features striking contemporary sculptures by world-renowned artists and is completely free to wander. Allow 1-1.5 hours to stroll and take photos.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Enjoy a leisurely walk along a section of the Principal Riverwalk, admiring the city skyline and the Des Moines River. For dinner, head to Bubba (200 10th St), a Southern comfort restaurant with a fantastic atmosphere and delicious menu. Anticipate spending $80-110 for dinner for two, including drinks. After dinner, consider a final stroll through the illuminated downtown area or a relaxed drink at Iowa Taproom (215 E 3rd St) in the East Village, offering an extensive selection of Iowa craft beers.

Day 2: East Village Charm & Global Inspiration

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Begin your day in the historic East Village with breakfast at a local favorite like Scenic Route Bakery (350 E Locust St), known for its pastries, coffee, and light breakfast options. Budget $20-30 for two. After breakfast, spend 2-2.5 hours exploring the unique boutiques, antique shops, and local businesses in the East Village. This vibrant district is filled with beautifully preserved historic architecture. Don’t miss passing by the striking architecture of the John and Mary Pappajohn Education Center (1200 Grand Ave).
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) For lunch, experience an iconic Des Moines spot: Fong’s Pizza (223 4th St). This unique establishment blends pizza with Asian-inspired flavors in a lively tiki bar setting. Budget $35-45 for two. After fueling up, take a short walk (5-7 minutes) to the breathtaking World Food Prize Hall of Laureates (1100 Locust St). This former Des Moines Public Library building is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture, beautifully restored. Free self-guided tours are available, offering insight into the history of the World Food Prize and the building itself. Allow 1-1.5 hours. Spend the remainder of the afternoon exploring the Court Avenue District, known for its historic buildings and lively atmosphere, just a short walk from the Hall of Laureates.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Before dinner, consider grabbing a fun drink at Up-Down Arcade Bar (500 E Grand Ave) for a nostalgic gaming experience, or simply enjoy a quiet moment at a downtown bar. For your farewell dinner, enjoy a sophisticated meal at Republic on Grand (401 E Grand Ave Suite 207). This modern American restaurant offers a great menu and a vibrant atmosphere, with options for rooftop seating depending on the season. Expect to spend $90-120 for dinner for two, including drinks. Reflect on your Des Moines adventure, enjoying the city lights.

Day 1: Pioneer Life & Downtown Delights

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Head northwest from downtown Des Moines (approx. 15-20 minute drive, 10 miles) to Living History Farms in Urbandale. This 500-acre outdoor museum offers an immersive journey through Iowa’s agricultural past. Explore a 1700 Ioway Indian Village, 1850 Pioneer Farm, and a 1900 Horse-Powered Farm, interacting with costumed interpreters. Allow 3-4 hours to fully experience the different historical periods and demonstrations. There’s a cafe on-site for a quick bite.
  • Practical Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be covering a large area. Much of the site is outdoors, so dress for the weather. Free parking is available.
  • Cost: ~$20 per adult (approx. $40 for 2 people).
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:30 PM) After your visit, grab a casual lunch at the Living History Farms cafe, or drive back towards downtown Des Moines (10-15 minutes) and stop at Gateway Market & Cafe for fresh, local fare. Following lunch, head to the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park (5-10 minute drive from Gateway Market). Spend 1.5-2 hours strolling through this free 4.4-acre outdoor park, featuring 28 significant sculptures by world-renowned artists. It’s a fantastic way to experience modern art in a unique urban setting.
  • Practical Tips: The Sculpture Park is free and open from dawn to dusk. Metered parking or nearby garage parking is available.
  • Cost: Lunch ~$30-40 for 2 people. Sculpture Park is free.
• Evening For dinner, enjoy a sophisticated meal at Proof, located in the Historic East Village (1 mile from Sculpture Park, 20 minute walk or short ride-share). Proof offers a seasonal menu with Mediterranean influences in a chic atmosphere. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Des Moines Riverwalk, admiring the illuminated bridges and city skyline.
  • Cost: Dinner ~$80-120 for 2 people, including drinks.

Day 2: Grand Domes & Boutique Finds

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Iowa State Capitol Building (5-10 minute drive from downtown hotels). Arrive by 9:30 AM for a fascinating, free guided tour (approx. 1 hour) of this ornate structure, noted for its intricate interior and impressive gold dome. Allow extra time to explore independently and marvel at the Iowa State Law Library. Afterward, take a short drive or walk (0.7 miles, 15 minutes) to the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates. This beautifully restored historic building celebrates agricultural achievements and often hosts exhibits related to global food security.
  • Practical Tips: Capitol tours are generally free, Monday-Friday; check their website for specific times. Free visitor parking is available at the Capitol. Check the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates website for open hours and exhibit schedules.
  • Cost: Both attractions are free.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Head into the Historic East Village, a vibrant neighborhood adjacent to the Capitol. Enjoy lunch at a local favorite like Fong’s Pizza (famous for its unique fusion pizzas) or Zombie Burger + Drink Lab (creative burgers and shakes). Spend the remainder of the afternoon browsing the unique boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores that line the streets of the East Village. You’ll find everything from trendy clothing to local art and home decor.
  • Practical Tips: Metered street parking and garages are available in the East Village. Many shops are independently owned, so hours may vary.
  • Cost: Lunch ~$30-50 for 2 people. Shopping costs are variable, budget ~$50 for small purchases.
• Evening Dine at Bubba - Southern Comforts in the East Village, offering delicious Southern-inspired dishes with a modern twist and a great selection of bourbon. After dinner, enjoy a sophisticated nightcap at Hello, Marjorie, a chic cocktail bar known for its creative drinks and elegant ambiance (5-10 minute walk from Bubba).
  • Cost: Dinner ~$70-100 for 2 people. Drinks ~$30-40 for 2 cocktails.

Day 3: Serene Greenery & Scientific Wonders

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Drive to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden (5-10 minutes from downtown), located on the east bank of the Des Moines River. Spend 2-3 hours exploring the stunning indoor conservatory, home to diverse plant collections including a tropical dome, and the serene outdoor gardens (seasonal). It’s a peaceful escape and a fantastic spot for photography.
  • Practical Tips: Free parking is available on-site. Check their website for any special exhibits or events.
  • Cost: ~$10-12 per adult (approx. $20-24 for 2 people).
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) For lunch, head back towards downtown. Consider Americana Restaurant & Lounge (short drive from the Botanical Garden) for a hearty American meal, or the Iowa Taproom in the East Village for a casual atmosphere with a vast selection of local beers and pub food. Afterward, visit the Science Center of Iowa, located downtown (5-10 minute walk from Americana, or short drive). Dedicate 2-3 hours to its interactive exhibits covering topics from space exploration to biodiversity. An IMAX dome theater is also available (additional cost).
  • Practical Tips: Parking is available in a dedicated ramp at the Science Center. Check their website for IMAX showtimes if interested.
  • Cost: Lunch ~$35-50 for 2 people. Science Center admission ~$20-22 per adult (approx. $40-44 for 2 people).
• Evening Enjoy a highly-regarded Italian dinner at Centro, located downtown (5-10 minute walk from the Science Center). Known for its lively atmosphere, delicious pasta, and wood-fired pizzas. For a final treat or nightcap, consider The Republic on Grand, a vibrant upscale bar (short walk from Centro) offering a lively ambiance and great views.
  • Cost: Dinner ~$80-110 for 2 people. Drinks/Dessert ~$25-35.

Day 4: Historic Charm & Local Flavors

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Drive about 15-20 minutes west to West Des Moines to explore Historic Valley Junction. This charming district, the original main street of West Des Moines, is filled with unique boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and specialty stores housed in beautifully preserved historic brick buildings. Allow 2-3 hours to wander, browse, and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere. If your trip falls on a Saturday, an excellent alternative is the Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Court Avenue), one of the largest in the Midwest, offering local produce, artisan goods, and prepared foods.
  • Practical Tips: Free street parking is generally available in Valley Junction. For the Farmers’ Market, arrive early and use nearby parking garages.
  • Cost: Shopping in Valley Junction is variable, budget ~$50 for unique finds. Farmers’ Market food/souvenirs ~$40-60 for 2 people.
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a casual lunch in Valley Junction at a spot like Cooper’s on 5th (American fare with a historic vibe). If you visited the Farmers’ Market in the morning, head to the Salisbury House & Gardens (10-15 minute drive from Valley Junction, or 5-10 minutes from downtown). This magnificent 42-room historic house museum, modeled after King’s House in Salisbury, England, showcases extensive art, antique, and literary collections. Guided tours are often available. Alternatively, if art is more your preference, visit the Des Moines Art Center (free admission), a short drive from Salisbury House, to explore its modern and contemporary art collections.
  • Practical Tips: Check Salisbury House tour times and reserve in advance if possible. Free parking is available at both locations.
  • Cost: Lunch ~$30-45 for 2 people. Salisbury House admission ~$15-20 per adult (approx. $30-40 for 2 people). Des Moines Art Center is free.
• Evening For your farewell dinner, savor the vibrant Latin-inspired cuisine at Malo, located downtown in a historic hotel. Malo offers a lively atmosphere and delicious dishes. Cap off your “Greater Des Moines Adventure” with a final drink at the sophisticated Surety Hotel Lobby Bar (if nearby), known for its elegant ambiance.
  • Cost: Dinner ~$70-100 for 2 people. Drinks ~$30-40 for 2 drinks.