Things to do in Des Moines

Des Moines might not be the most visited city in Iowa, but it does have its own unique charms. A mecca for art lovers all around the world, Des Moines offers a variety of destinations which provide inspiration and creativity for visitors. Apart from its art scenes, Des Moines is also home to many impressive historic buildings and scenic sites.

Des Moines Art Center

Three world-renowned architects, Eliel Saarinen, IM Pei and Richard Meier, transformed this building with various art masterpieces into something of a piece of art itself. The building boasts exquisite architecture and an array of impressive collections of contemporary art dating from the 19th and 20th centuries including famous works by Edward Hopper, Jasper Johns, Georgia O'Keeffe, Henri Matisse, and Francis Bacon. The centre is also a location for various youth and evening events. Hungry visitors can also visit the Art Centers restaurant, ranked as five star by the Des Moines Register.

Capitol Building

This remarkable building, whose sparkling 23-carat gold leaf dome can be seen for miles, is one of the nations most beautiful capitol buildings. The building was built in the state-of-the-art architectural style and is lavishly decorated with many kinds of materials. Apart from a main gold dome, the four surrounding copper-topped domes are also very impressive. The building boasts an exquisite interior featuring delightful woodwork and 29 different types of marble used throughout. Many interesting historic flags and state records are on display on the second floor.

Terrace Hill

The official residence of the Governor of Iowa, Terrace Hill welcomes visitors to wander around in the home of Iowas first millionaire, Benjamin Franklin Allen. Marked as an outstanding example of Second Empire architecture, the building boasts many rooms that unveil unique art, architecture and antiques. You can see the dining room, sitting room, music room and library, which has a variety of old books. The governor and his family live on the third floor, which is not open to public. You can also go up the tower and witness amazing views of the city.

State Historical Society of Iowa Museum

Fascinating history of the city is revealed in this state museum. You will get to travel back in time to when mammoths roamed around Iowa and glaciers were to be seen everywhere. Visitors can also pretend to live the life of a Native American and learn how to push a plough and carry buckets with a shoulder yoke. There are also many notable collections including various fossils, wildlife and US Civil War flags.

Science Center of Iowa

A must-visit attraction for science lovers, Science Center of Iowa reveals a number of impressive displays at six different learning stations. Here, you can observe the stations of chemistry and physics, see for yourself how things move, learn more about your genes, be amazed with planetarium shows in a 50-foot dome and look through an ant farm. There is also an IMAX theatre, screening famous classic shows such as Lewis & Clark: Great Journey West, Superman Returns and the like.

Blank Park Zoo

Observe all kinds of animals and get a chance to feed giraffes and go on an adventurous tour around the zoo. Many events are also held here throughout the year including a special drinking festival, the Zoo Brew, and events for children such as Night Eyes, which is organised during Halloween.