Identity summary
2 to 5 days
Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Possible without car depending on area
Heritage · Nature
Good accessibility
Sweet rhythm
General presentation
Des Moines
Prairie capital, civic architecture, art and gardens.
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For a stay of 2 to 5 days, a quiet rhythm works well. Also to be anticipated: conditions to be checked according to the season. The trip can be organised without a car if the drop point and local connections are selected in advance. The main sites are generally easy to access.
Strengths and constraints
Strengths
- Iowa State Capitol
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Before you choose
- Car often useful
- Conditions to be checked by season
Places worth visiting
A selection to start dreaming and organizing the stay — not an exhaustive list of everything there is to see.
Culture and heritage
Iowa State Capitol
The Iowa State Capitol is recognized by its golden domes that shine above Des Moines. Inside, monumental staircases, legal library, painted decors and legislative rooms make up a very visual visit, with as a bonus an unobstructed view of the city centre from the hill.
Nature and landscape
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Pappajohn Sculpture Park installs major contemporary works in the lawns of Western Gateway, in the heart of the Des Moines The sculptures are discovered in open air, between buildings, paths and benches, making art very accessible without losing the pleasure of an urban walk.
Culture and heritage
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden offers a plant parenthesis at the edge of the Des Moines River, with a large tropical greenhouse, outdoor gardens and seasonal collections. In winter or in gray weather, the humid heat of palm trees and orchids completely changes the atmosphere of the city.
Culture and heritage
Salisbury House
Set in a wooded area of Des Moines, Salisbury House is re-opened with an English mansion with dark beams, worked stone and richly decorated rooms. The visit reveals both the collection of the Weeks family and Tudor architecture, between library, art works, tapestries and calm views of trees.
Practical tips
This information helps determine whether the destination suits the planned trip before further research.
To go further
More activities
Restaurants, walks, culture, leisure and outings to search without leaving the destination card.
The nearest destinations
The closest ideas on the map, to extend your trip.
Similar destinations
Same landscapes and the same pace of travel, elsewhere in the world.
