DES MOINES IS DESTINED TO BECOME YOUR NEW FAVORITE PLACE TO FROLIC

Des Moines, Iowa, probably isn’t the first place you think of when planning a trip, but it’s got more going on than you think. It’s one of those cities that’s comfortable to be in. You don’t need an itinerary, just a little curiosity and a good pair of walking shoes. 

The downtown area is easy to explore on foot, and there’s a lot to see without feeling like you’re checking off a list. The Pappajohn Sculpture Park is right in the middle of it all, with huge, modern art installations scattered across a grassy park. It’s free, open-air, and it’s a nice way to start a quiet morning.

From there, it’s a short walk to the East Village, which is full of local shops, coffee spots, and some great restaurants. If you like browsing, you’ll find everything from vintage clothing to handmade goods and small bookstores. Food-wise, you’ll find everything from brunch spots to wood-fired pizza to locally sourced dinners that don’t feel over-the-top. It’s casual but thoughtful—and not overcrowded, which is nice.

If you want something outdoorsy to do, there are miles of trails throughout the city. The Des Moines Riverwalk is a nice place to start. It loops through downtown and gives you views of the water, a few historic bridges, and spots to sit and take it in. For something more active, head to Grey’s Lake Park where you can rent paddleboards or kayaks, or just walk the paved loop around the lake. It’s quiet, with lots of open space and a nice view of the city skyline in the distance.

Feeling adventurous? Summit Climbing Gym downtown is a great indoor option, especially if you like rock climbing or want to try something different. There are also places that rent out bikes and e-scooters, which makes it easy to explore without a car. And if you want to get outside the city, Ledges State Park is about 45 minutes away and offers hiking trails with sandstone cliffs, wooded paths, and creek crossings that feel more rugged than you’d expect for Iowa.

Depending on the time of year, Des Moines also has a solid lineup of local events. The Downtown Farmers’ Market runs weekly from May through October, and it’s not just produce. There’s food, live music, local artists, and a good crowd. If you’re around in August, the Iowa State Fair is one of the biggest in the country. Even if you’re not “fair people,” it’s something to see at least once.

What I like most is how relaxed everything feels. You can fill your day if you want to—or not. This city makes space for both. There’s good energy, but it’s not loud. Des Moines is clean, friendly, and easy to navigate. For a long weekend or a week-long reset, Iowa awaits you.
​
Let me know if you have any questions about traveling to Des Moines. I’d love to help answer them and help you get there when the time feels right.