Five Days of Fun in Des Moines

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

22 April 2023

Des Moines is the capital of Iowa and a hidden gem in the Midwest. Visitors can explore the city's rich cultural offerings, such as the Des Moines Art Center or the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, or take in a show at the historic Civic Center. The city is also home to delicious local cuisine, including the famous Iowa sweet corn and award-winning craft breweries.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Farm-to-Table Delights

  • Check into the charming Hotel Renovo and enjoy its modern amenities
  • Brunch at Americana, where you'll savor delicious farm-to-table fare
  • Stroll through the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature
  • Shop for local produce and artisanal goods at the Downtown Farmers' Market
  • Dine at Proof, a cozy yet elegant restaurant that specializes in seasonal gastropub cuisine
Day 2

Artistic Exploration

  • Head to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a unique outdoor art museum featuring works by renowned artists
  • Stop by the Des Moines Art Center to admire its extensive collection of modern and contemporary art
  • Take a break for lunch at Tacopocalypse, a funky eatery serving up fusion tacos and burritos
  • Visit the Salisbury House & Gardens, a stunning Tudor-style mansion filled with art and antiques
  • Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Trostel's Greenbriar, a chic restaurant known for its steak and seafood dishes
Day 3

History and Culture

  • Start your day at the Iowa State Capitol, a majestic building with stunning views of the city
  • Continue on to the State Historical Museum of Iowa, where you'll learn about the state's rich history and culture
  • Have lunch at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab, a fun and creative burger joint with a horror theme
  • Explore the Living History Farms, a unique outdoor museum that showcases how Iowa's agriculture and farming has evolved over the years
  • Dine at Django, a stylish French brasserie that's a local favorite for its seafood and charcuterie plates
Day 4

Family-Friendly Fun

  • Spend your morning at the Blank Park Zoo, where you'll get up close and personal with a variety of animals from around the world
  • Grab lunch at Fong's Pizza, a quirky spot that offers Chinese-inspired pizzas like Crab Rangoon and Kung Pao Chicken
  • Visit Adventureland, a thrilling amusement park with roller coasters and other rides for all ages
  • Catch a movie at the charming Fleur Cinema, an independent theater that screens foreign and indie films
  • Have dinner at Centro, a lively Italian restaurant that serves up fresh pasta and wood-fired pizzas
Day 5

Relaxation and Recreation

  • Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely morning at the hotel
  • Grab brunch at The Waveland Cafe, a cozy diner known for its classic breakfast dishes
  • Spend your afternoon at Gray's Lake Park, where you can go for a walk, bike ride, or paddleboat ride on the lake
  • Have a late lunch at El Bait Shop, a laid-back bar with a massive selection of craft beers and pub grub
  • End your stay on a high note with dinner at Baratta's, a traditional Italian restaurant that serves up hearty dishes like lasagna and veal parmigiana.

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

3-Day Romantic Getaway: Des Moines Delights

Des Moines, the capital and largest city of Iowa, offers a romantic getaway experience in the heartland of America. The city's vibrant arts, culture, and culinary scenes entice couples with its unique charm and character. From exploring museums to indulging in romantic meals, Des Moines has everything to create unforgettable memories for a romantic trip.

Romantic Weekend Getaway: Discover Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa, is a charming city perfect for a romantic getaway. Take a stroll through the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, enjoy a Broadway show at the Des Moines Civic Center or sip wine and enjoy live music at Summerset Winery for an unforgettable experience. Don't forget to indulge in local cuisine at popular restaurants like Bubba, Django or Centro.

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.

Fun-filled day trip: Des Moines Delights

Des Moines is a vibrant city, rich in culture, history, and entertainment. It is home to notable landmarks such as the Iowa State Capitol and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, as well as numerous arts and cultural events. Visitors can also explore the city's many restaurants, bars, and shopping centers, making it a great destination for a fun-filled vacation.