Des Moines

A vibrant celebration of art and culture in the heart of Iowa.

💡 Plan your visit for the weekend of the festival in late June, and arrive early to snag a good parking spot. Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the outdoor venue.

A legendary state fair showcasing local agriculture and culture.

💡 Plan your visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds, and try the famous butter cow sculpture. Arrive early to find parking and enjoy all the attractions.

Urban park with serene vibes and hidden spots.

💡 Look for the park's hidden benches by the pond for quiet moments.

Discover a tranquil secret forest full of squirrels.

💡 Bring a book to enjoy in serene tranquility.

Home of the legendary fair food and events, including corn dogs.

💡 If visiting during the fair, arrive early to avoid crowds. Be sure to try the fried butter and famous funnel cakes, and bring cash for the best experience.

A beloved burger joint known for its classic flavors.

💡 Try the special house sauce for a unique flavor; visit during lunch for the best deals; check their social media for daily specials.

A must-try at the Iowa State Fair, legendary for its sweetness.

💡 Plan your visit during the fair in August, and bring cash for quick transactions. Grab a stick of butter to enhance the flavor!

Retro diner with delightful homemade pies!

💡 Try the cherry pie—it’s legendary!

An engaging museum showcasing Iowa's rich history.

💡 Plan to spend a few hours; take advantage of guided tours for deeper insights; check for temporary exhibits to enhance your visit.

A stunning example of Renaissance architecture.

💡 Visit during the spring to enjoy blooming flowers in the gardens; free guided tours are available. Bring a camera for stunning architectural photography.

A modern art museum with stunning architecture.

💡 Admission is free; visit during weekdays for a quieter experience. Check out the outdoor sculptures and gardens.

Home to the annual Iowa State Fair, celebrating local culture.

💡 Visit during the fair for a true experience; try the famous fried butter; arrive early for the best parking options.

A stunning neoclassical building topped with a gold dome.

💡 Visit during the week for guided tours; don't miss the surrounding grounds for beautiful gardens.

A modern residential building with a unique architectural design.

💡 Walk around the surrounding area to appreciate the design from different angles. Visit nearby parks for a relaxing afternoon.

A historic Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home in Iowa.

💡 Reservations are recommended for tours; consider visiting during the spring when gardens bloom; photography is allowed in designated areas.

Gorgeous state house illuminated at night

💡 Visit on a weeknight for a more serene experience.

An architectural masterpiece with a stunning gold dome.

💡 Join a guided tour for in-depth knowledge of the building's history, and visit during the spring to enjoy the gardens. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning dome!

Celebrating over a century of the Iowa State Fair's history.

💡 Time your visit around the fair dates to see special exhibits, and be sure to enjoy some fair food while you’re there!

Celebrate Iowa’s sports legends and cultural achievements.

💡 Allow time to explore the interactive exhibits, and visit during weekdays for a quieter experience. Don't forget to capture a photo with the life-sized Iowa sports figures!

Explore the rich history of Iowa from prehistory to present.

💡 Plan to spend at least a few hours to fully appreciate the exhibits. Check for special events and programs that may be happening during your visit.

An interactive hub for science and discovery.

💡 Plan to spend several hours for a full experience; check for live science shows; bring a water bottle for hydration.

Celebrating the heritage and traditions of the Iowa State Fair.

💡 If visiting during the fair, arrive early to explore before the crowds. Check the schedule for special events or workshops. Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the fairgrounds.

Dive into Iowa's geological history!

💡 Check out their schedule for cave-related events and tours!

Explore the art of the unconventional!

💡 Bring an open mind—and maybe even a friend!

Historic governor's home with panoramic views.

💡 Check for guided tours to learn its rich history!

Dramatic valleys steeped in Native American history.

💡 Bring sturdy boots; trails can be rough and under-marked.