12 Iowa Capital's Mustsee Attractions

Iowa, a state nestled in the heart of the United States, boasts a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant landscape. The capital city, Des Moines, serves as a bustling hub with a myriad of attractions that showcase Iowa's unique charm. From historic sites to natural wonders, these 12 must-see attractions offer a diverse and captivating experience for visitors.

1. Iowa State Capitol

The Iowa State Capitol, often referred to as the “Capitol of the Heartland,” is an iconic landmark and a symbol of Iowa’s rich political history. The building, completed in 1886, is a stunning example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Visitors can explore the grand rotunda, adorned with intricate frescoes, and admire the golden dome that dominates the city skyline. The Capitol offers free tours, providing an insightful look into Iowa’s legislative processes and the state’s history.

Capitol Building Complex

Beyond the Capitol itself, the Capitol Building Complex is a hub of governmental activity. This area includes the Supreme Court Building, the State Library of Iowa, and the historic Old Capitol, which now serves as a museum. The Old Capitol, with its red brick exterior and white columns, is a picturesque reminder of Iowa’s early days.

Capitol Tour Highlights

• The majestic House of Representatives Chamber with its ornate ceiling and gold-leafed details.
• The Senate Chamber, featuring beautiful stained glass and a hand-carved mahogany rostrum.
• The Supreme Court Room, where visitors can learn about Iowa’s legal history and view the original bench used by the state’s first Supreme Court.

2. Des Moines Art Center

A haven for art enthusiasts, the Des Moines Art Center boasts an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. The center is renowned for its architecture, featuring three distinct buildings designed by renowned architects Eliel and Eero Saarinen and I.M. Pei. The collection showcases works by Picasso, Warhol, and O’Keeffe, among others, offering a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums.

Art Center’s Architectural Wonders

The Art Center’s buildings are works of art in themselves. The main building, with its sleek lines and unique shape, is an iconic landmark. The sculpture park, designed by I.M. Pei, offers a tranquil outdoor space with sculptures by Henry Moore and Alexander Calder.

Exhibit Highlights

• The permanent collection, which includes a wide range of media, from paintings and sculptures to photography and video installations.
• The contemporary art gallery, which features rotating exhibitions of emerging and established artists.
• The unique outdoor sculptures, which provide a dynamic contrast to the natural landscape.

3. Principal Riverwalk

Stretching along the Des Moines River, the Principal Riverwalk is a vibrant urban park that offers a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This 3-mile-long pathway is lined with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and picturesque bridges. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, rent a bike or paddleboat, or simply relax on the riverbank and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

Riverwalk Attractions

The Riverwalk is more than just a scenic pathway. It is home to several unique attractions, including:

• The Des Moines River Aquaramp, a floating water park with water slides and play structures.
• The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, featuring a diverse collection of modern sculptures by renowned artists.
• The Des Moines Civic Center, a performing arts venue that hosts a variety of shows and concerts.

4. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

A lush oasis in the heart of the city, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a year-round destination that delights visitors with its diverse plant collections and stunning displays. The garden’s conservatory, with its soaring glass walls, offers a tropical escape, featuring exotic plants from around the world. Outdoor gardens showcase Iowa’s native flora and provide a peaceful retreat.

Garden Highlights

• The Conservatory, which features a rotating display of seasonal flowers and plants, creating a vibrant and ever-changing landscape.
• The Outdoor Gardens, where visitors can explore Iowa’s natural beauty and discover unique plant species.
• The Garden’s Events, which include seasonal festivals, educational workshops, and special exhibits, offering a dynamic experience throughout the year.

5. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, this museum and aquarium offers a unique glimpse into the river’s history and the diverse ecosystems it supports. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the river’s cultural and natural significance, from its role in Native American life to its impact on modern transportation and industry.

Aquarium & Museum Exhibits

• The Mississippi River Gallery, which takes visitors on a journey through the river’s history and its impact on the region.
• The Aquarium, featuring a variety of freshwater and saltwater species, including river otters, stingrays, and sharks.
• The Outdoor Exhibits, which include a riverboat ride, a butterfly garden, and a nature trail, offering a hands-on experience with the river’s ecosystem.

6. Blank Park Zoo

Blank Park Zoo is a family-friendly attraction that brings visitors face-to-face with a diverse array of animals from around the world. The zoo is committed to conservation and education, offering a unique opportunity to learn about wildlife and the importance of protecting our natural heritage.

Zoo Exhibits & Conservation Efforts

• The African Veldt, where visitors can observe giraffes, zebras, and other African wildlife in a naturalistic setting.
• The Discovery Center, which features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, providing an engaging learning experience for all ages.
• The Conservation Corner, which highlights the zoo’s conservation efforts and the impact visitors can have on protecting wildlife.

7. Salisbury House

Salisbury House is a unique historic home that transports visitors to a different era. This Tudor-style mansion, built in the 1920s, is a meticulously designed showcase of European architecture and art. The house is filled with rare artifacts, antique furniture, and a vast collection of fine art, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its original owners.

Salisbury House Tour Highlights

• The Grand Hall, with its towering ceiling and intricate wood carvings, sets the tone for the entire house.
• The Library, featuring a stunning collection of rare books and a hidden staircase.
• The Garden Room, which offers a tranquil retreat with its beautiful murals and a unique view of the outdoor gardens.

8. Iowa State Fair

The Iowa State Fair is a beloved annual event that celebrates the state’s agricultural heritage and its unique culture. Held over 11 days in August, the fair attracts visitors from across the country with its iconic attractions, including the Butter Cow sculpture, the Grandstand shows, and the famous food offerings that showcase Iowa’s culinary delights.

State Fair Attractions

• The Butter Cow and Calf, a life-size sculpture made entirely of butter, is a traditional and beloved feature of the fair.
• The Grandstand, which hosts a variety of entertainment, from musical performances to rodeo shows.
• The Food Department, where visitors can indulge in a wide range of culinary delights, from deep-fried delicacies to classic fair favorites.

9. Iowa Events Center

The Iowa Events Center is a vibrant hub for entertainment, sports, and cultural events. This complex includes the Wells Fargo Arena, the Hy-Vee Hall, and the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center, offering a diverse range of attractions and experiences for visitors.

Events Center Highlights

• The Wells Fargo Arena, which hosts major sporting events, concerts, and family-friendly shows.
• The Hy-Vee Hall, a versatile venue that accommodates a variety of events, from trade shows to conventions.
• The Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center, which provides a modern and flexible space for conferences, meetings, and exhibitions.

10. Terrace Hill

Terrace Hill, the official residence of the Governor of Iowa, is a historic mansion that offers a glimpse into the state’s political history. This Italian Renaissance-style mansion, built in the late 1800s, is a beautifully preserved example of architectural grandeur. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the mansion’s elegant rooms, furnished with period pieces and adorned with artwork.

Terrace Hill Tour Highlights

• The Grand Staircase, a stunning example of craftsmanship with its intricate wood carvings and ornate railings.
• The Governor’s Office, where visitors can learn about the history of Iowa’s leadership and view artifacts from past administrations.
• The Formal Garden, a beautifully landscaped outdoor space that provides a peaceful contrast to the mansion’s grandeur.

11. Des Moines Farmers Market

The Des Moines Farmers Market is a vibrant, open-air market that brings together local farmers, artisans, and food producers. Held weekly during the summer months, the market offers a diverse selection of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique food items. Visitors can browse the stalls, sample local specialties, and interact with the friendly vendors, creating a lively and community-oriented atmosphere.

Farmers Market Highlights

• The wide variety of fresh, locally grown produce, including rare and heirloom varieties.
• Artisanal foods and crafts, from homemade jams and baked goods to unique jewelry and artwork.
• Live music and entertainment, creating a festive atmosphere that adds to the market’s charm.

12. Living History Farms

Living History Farms is an interactive outdoor museum that brings Iowa’s agricultural history to life. This unique attraction spans over 500 acres and features five historical farms, each representing a different era in Iowa’s agricultural past. Visitors can step back in time and experience the daily lives of Iowa’s early settlers, from the 1700s to the early 20th century.

Living History Farms Exhibits

• The 1700 Ioway Indian Village, where visitors can learn about the lives and traditions of the Ioway people.
• The 1850 Pioneer Farm, which showcases the challenges and innovations of early Iowa farming.
• The 1900 Horse-Powered Farm, where visitors can see how technology transformed agriculture in the late 19th century.