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15 Best Things To Do in Des Moines, Iowa

Picture of Des Moines, Iowa

About Des Moines, Iowa


It wouldn’t be wrong to call Des Moines the hub of the political landscape in the region. However, the city has a lot more to offer, from a thriving shopping scene and botanical gardens to sculpture parks and happening street life.

The city’s grand cultural heritage is expressed by the presence of the State Capitol building and the Salisbury House. Meanwhile, the downtown storefronts are also an ode to the historical architecture and culture of the region.

The city has also boomed in terms of science and technology, with the Science Center of Iowa bearing witness to this development. As for sightseeing, places like the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Salisbury House & Gardens, and Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden are a hit among tourists.

Current Conditions

Weather in June


0.6" of rainfall
74.4 ° average temp
0" of snow

Ratings

Active Life
Arts
Food
Hotels / Travel
Local Flavor
Nightlife
Shopping


Des Moines Weather by Month


Looking for a potential month to visit Des Moines? The following graph illustrates the monthly highs, lows and averages of temperature, rain and snow in Des Moines.



Places to Stay in Des Moines


Use the interactive map to find lodging and a place to stay during your visit to Des Moines. The interactive map includes hotels, vacation rentals, BnBs and more.



Best Tours in Des Moines


Fill your day with these top-rated tours in Des Moines.



Best Things to do in Des Moines, IA


These are the best things to do in the greater Des Moines area listed by outdoor activities, arts and museums, restaurants and nightlife.


Outdoor Activities in Des Moines


Ironside Axe Club

Ironside Axe Club

Based on 16 Reviews
Power Life - Des Moines

Power Life - Des Moines

Based on 16 Reviews
Skateland

Skateland

Based on 10 Reviews


Museums in Des Moines


The Operating Room

The Operating Room

Based on 21 Reviews
8035 Music Festival

8035 Music Festival

Based on 10 Reviews
The Knotty Nail

The Knotty Nail

Based on 9 Reviews


Restaurants in Des Moines


The Cheese Shop

The Cheese Shop

Based on 118 Reviews
Gong Fu Tea

Gong Fu Tea

Based on 77 Reviews
Donut Hut

Donut Hut

Based on 72 Reviews


Nightlife in Des Moines


The Bartender’s Handshake

The Bartender’s Handshake

Based on 32 Reviews
The Operating Room

The Operating Room

Based on 21 Reviews
El Bait Shop

El Bait Shop

Based on 457 Reviews


Similar Destinations to Des Moines


If you enjoy the weather, attractions and the things to do in Des Moines, check out these comparable destinations as potential alternatives.

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Rochester, NY

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The third-largest city in Minnesota, Rochester, was put on the wanderlusters’ map by the establishment of Mayo Clinic. Its balance of a… Read More



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Based on 14 Reviews
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Based on 9 Reviews
The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates

The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates

Based on 6 Reviews

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