Things to Do in Des Moines
Between the stunning capitol, Iowa State Fair and top-notch museums, visitors will have no shortage of attractions in Des Moines. Take a free self-guided or formal tour The State Capitol Building, a three-story, castle-like structure set atop a hill that offers panoramic views of downtown. Only a 10-minute walk from the capitol lies the State of Iowa Historical Museum, which has free admission and family-friendly activities. Art lovers will drool over the Des Moines Art Center and gardeners will delight in the blooms at the Botanical Center and the Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden.
Be sure to take advantage of Iowa State Fair, a must-see for family travel groups. The internationally acclaimed fair is the single largest event in the state and one of the oldest industrial expositions in the country, attracting more than 1 million people each year from all around the globe. No matter the season, you can also check out a Broadway-caliber performance at the Civic Center. If golfing is the name of the game, tee times are offered in the warmer months at the area's fine championship courses such as Waveland Golf Course and Bright Grandview.