Things to do in Central Iowa

Activities, attractions and tours

Iowa State University featuring heritage architecture and a lake or waterhole
Reiman Gardens showing a park and signage as well as a family
Iowa State Capitol Building which includes a garden and heritage architecture
Reiman Gardens showing a park and wild flowers
Des Moines Art Center showing interior views and art

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What to do in Central Iowa


Popular places to visit

Areas of Central Iowa

State Historical Society of Iowa Museum featuring a high-rise building, landscape views and a city

Downtown Des Moines

4/5(1 area review)

The abundant dining options and live music are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Des Moines. A stop by 801 Grand or Des Moines Civic Center might round out your trip.

Downtown Des Moines
Historic East Village

Historic East Village

Find beautiful government buildings, cultural attractions and a garden oasis in this older section of the city extending along a pretty riverfront.

Historic East Village
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Court District

Travellers come to Court District for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Science Center of Iowa and Des Moines' Downtown Farmers' Market while you're in town.

Court District
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Drake

While visiting Drake, you might make a stop by sights like Knapp Center and Des Moines Community Playhouse.

Drake
Grays Lake showing a lake or waterhole

Greater South Side

While there might not be top attractions in Greater South Side, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Air Lanes Bowling Center and Gray’s Lake Park.

Greater South Side
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park showing outdoor art, a high-rise building and a park

Western Gateway

While visiting Western Gateway, you might make a stop by sights like John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park and Pappajohn Sculpture Park.

Western Gateway

 

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