4 Day Guide to Vibrant Des Moines, USA

Discover the charm of the heartland in Des Moines, Iowa.

03 May 2023

Des Moines is a vibrant city in the United States, with a rich history, culture and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the famous State Capitol building, the Des Moines Art Center and Pappajohn Sculpture Park. A trip to Des Moines would be incomplete without indulging in the local food scene, which features farm-to-table cuisine, craft breweries and trendy coffee shops.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Downtown Des Moines

  • Stay at the trendy Hotel Renovo
  • Start the day with a coffee at Horizon Line Coffee
  • Visit the quirky Raygun store for unique souvenirs
  • Take a tour of the beautiful Iowa State Capitol building
  • Enjoy a craft beer at Exile Brewing Co.
  • Finish the night with a show at Wooly's music venue
Day 2

Discovering Des Moines' Art Scene

  • Enjoy breakfast at Scenic Route Bakery
  • Explore the impressive collection at the Des Moines Art Center
  • Admire the street art and murals in the East Village neighborhood
  • Take a painting class at the captivating Sip Studios
  • Dine at the trendy Proof restaurant for dinner
Day 3

Exploring the Great Outdoors

  • Visit the stunning Pappajohn Sculpture Park
  • Take a bike ride along the scenic Iowa River Trail
  • Have a picnic at Gray's Lake Park
  • Go kayaking at Raccoon River Park
  • Enjoy a burger at the classic B & B Grocery Meat & Deli
Day 4

Tasting Des Moines' Best Cuisine

  • Enjoy brunch at Americana restaurant
  • Taste some award-winning cheese at the The Cheese Shop of Des Moines
  • Sample the famous Dutch Letter pastries at Jaarsma Bakery
  • Have dinner at the elegant Django restaurant
  • Finish the night with drinks at the hip El Bait Shop and Brewery.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Des Moines by plane is to fly into Des Moines International Airport, which is located five miles southwest of downtown. Major airlines that operate at this airport include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.

Car

Driving is a convenient way to get to Des Moines as many major highways, including Interstates 35 and 80, run through the city. It is important to note that traffic congestion can be an issue during rush hour periods.

Train

There is no direct train service to Des Moines, so taking a train is not a recommended mode of transportation to get to the city.

Boat

Since Des Moines is not a coastal city, traveling by boat is not possible. However, boat tours are available on nearby rivers, such as the Des Moines River.

Bus

Taking the bus is an affordable way to get to Des Moines. Greyhound Lines and Jefferson Lines operate bus services to Des Moines, with the bus station located in downtown Des Moines at 100 Cherry Street.

Destination

Des Moines

Welcome to the landlocked city where corn and politics thrive, Des Moines! Don't let the lack of ocean fool you, this Midwest gem still has plenty to offer.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

5-Day Weekend in Romantic Des Moines

Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, offers plenty of options for a romantic getaway. With its beautiful parks, charming restaurants and cafes, and cultural attractions like the Des Moines Art Center and the Des Moines Symphony, couples can share intimate moments while exploring the city's natural and cultural beauty. The city also offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, making it the perfect destination for a romantic trip.

Discover Des Moines: A Fun-Packed Weekend Guide!

As a tourist in Des Moines, be prepared to take a stroll down their famous sculpture park, home to over 30 art installations. Don't miss out on the fun at the Iowa State Fair, where you'll get to experience livestock shows, carnival rides and an array of delicious food vendors. Finally, be sure to visit the Iowa State Capitol building, known for its architectural beauty and rich history.

Des Moines Delights: A Fun-Filled Family Adventure.

Des Moines is a vibrant and family-friendly destination located in the heart of the United States. Visitors can explore the city's numerous parks, such as the picturesque Gray's Lake Park, offering walking trails, playgrounds, and even paddle boating. The Blank Park Zoo is another must-visit attraction, where families can get up close with a variety of animals and enjoy interactive exhibits.

Des Moines on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Des Moines is a charming city in the heartland of the United States. Despite being the state capital of Iowa, it's possible to experience the best of the city on a limited budget. From visiting the free Des Moines Art Center and the Iowa State Capitol building, to strolling through the scenic Gray's Lake Park, there's plenty of affordable activities for any budget-conscious traveler.