THIS POST WAS WRITTEN IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CATCH DES MOINES. ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.
Some where behind the tree lined highways lie a vibrant city waiting to be explored. I have a goal of visiting all fifty states in my lifetime. However, to be honest, Iowa wasn’t that high on the list. What brought me to Des Moines, Iowa was my son’s journey in the AAU Junior Olympics for track & field but will bring me back to Iowa is the city’s unique culture, trendy hot spots, beautiful architecture and rich history!
I spent an entire week here becoming one with the arts and culture scene, indulging in good eats, thrill seeking, partaking in local events and most importantly creating new memories with my family that will last a lifetime.
Catch The Ultimate Family Guide To Des Moines Below!
Where To Stay
West Des Moines // The area is centrally located with easy access to US 80. This highway took us everywhere we needed to go with ease. Bustling with popular hotel chains, shopping and restaurants a short drive away and a corporate lifestyle at every turn, this area is a great option on your visit to Des Moines.
Downtown// If walking out the front door of your hotel onto the city’s streets to explore by foot is ideal to you, then staying downtown will surely fit the bill. Trendy eatery’s, cute street murals, boutique shops and rich culture is at every turn. It’s the perfect place to go for a stroll. With countless options at your finger tips, your hardest choice will be which way to go first!
What To Do
Iowa State Capitol // The Iowa State Capitol is a gem! The architecture is so elegant and the inside is absolutely breathtaking. With a goal of visiting all of the US State Capitols, I was happy to cross this one off of my list. Tours are provided at no cost or you can opt for a self-guided tour. We opted for the tour guide and it was great to hear the history and be able to ask questions. The artwork throughout is so beautiful and to know that it was hand painted makes one appreciate it even more. I highly recommend adding this to your places to visit when in Des Moines.
State Historical Museum // Just a short walk from Iowa State Capitol, it’s worth every step! The kids and I really enjoyed all this museum offered. We learned so many cool facts about Iowa and the exhibits were really fun to explore. Admission is complimentary and I was completely shocked because it offers its patrons so much to see. Combine this destination with the Iowa State Capitol and you have a FREE day of fun!
John & Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park // I love cute little parks and this one fits the bill. Right in the heart of downtown Des Moines, its the perfect location for a stroll. There are so many cool sculptures here, 29 to be exact. They are really fun to look at, read about and of course snap pictures with. Also, there is plenty of metered parking surrounding every corner so parking should be a breeze. The kid’s will definitely get a kick out of this so add it to the list.
Gray’s Lake Park // There are two things that I look for when I travel to a new city. One, is cool street murals and the other is a nice park. As soon as I came across this park, I knew it was a must see! The lake is huge, the walking trails are heavily in use, picnic tables adorn the property, there is plenty of shade, you can rent paddle boats & canoes, water sports are at an all time high, there is a designated beach area, it makes the perfect place for a picnic and its close to downtown. However, my favorite amenity that this park offers is the pedestrian bridge. Its a nice stretch during the day and it also lights up beautifully in an array of colors at night. Its well worth a walk across to catch the best views of the lake. Go see for yourself!
Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge // You can spot this beauty miles away! Overlooking the Des Moines river, its a great addition to the area. It is home to two pathways, one for walkers and the other for Bike Riders. We caught some awesome views of the city’s skyline from here. It was also relaxing to see and hear the sound of the raging waterfall that takes place right underneath the bridge itself. The perfect place to stroll about has just been given to you! Thank me later.
Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens // Just foot steps away from the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge, prepare to be transported to China as you enter this Asian Garden. Highlighting the importance of diversity in the community, it’s in a stunning location right off of the Des Moines river. I’m a fan of everything it symbolizes and the meaning it alludes as you explore the property. Combine the two attractions for a lesson on rich culture and a great representation of what the city stands for.
Adventureland Resort // Part amusement park, part water park this place is big on fun! Its the perfect place to spend a day with your family seeking thrills. With fun rides, good eats, great shows and the best way to cool off, its an easy option for thrill seekers and non-thrill seekers alike. A day of fun for the whole family awaits you. Go own your fancy!
Iowa Cubs Game // Baseball fans rejoice and grab some tickets to see the icubs in action! They are Des Moines minor league team but the game is not short on fun. The same tactics are used to lure the crowd in for a fun night under the stars. It was the kids first baseball game and they had a ton of fun singing songs, attempting to catch balls and other paraphernalia, watching the kissing cam, chowing down on signature eats and feeding off the crowds excitement.
Street Art Hunt // No travel is complete without hunting for the coolest street art to pose in front of. Afterall, if you don’t have pictures it didn’t happen, right!?! I found some really nice pieces while I was out exploring. Let’s see what you find!
Where To Eat
Zombie Burger // This has got to be the coolest eatery ever! With several locations to choose from, we opted for the downtown location and I’m so happy we did. This place get’s really crowded but we were able to snag patio seating without a wait. Their menu is adorned with some of the weirdest burgers ever. The combinations are things you wouldn’t think would taste great together, but boy was I wrong. I decided to try the Trailer Trash Burger and I highly recommend it. It was so good! The decor is a bit fun and a bit creepy as zombies take over the entry and make the perfect photo opp to document your visit here. They are also known for their delicious cereal shakes. Keeping in mind that my children like Cinnamon Toast Crunch, I decided to treat them to a shake and they loved it! Put your nerves to rest and follow your appetite straight to Zombie Burger
Molly’s Cupcakes // This cute little sweet shop is a must visit! You can create your own cupcake or choose from the endless options already displayed for you. There are unique swings surrounding the counter for seating. I think this is the highlight of every ones visit! With a sprinkle station full of different sprinkles you can help yourself to, complimentary water on display and cool sayings written on the walls, this makes the trendiest cupcake shop to add to your social media portfolio. Pick your flavor!
Black Cat Ice Cream // I heard this was the best ice cream in Des Moines so of course I had to try it! Situated in a tiny space adjacent to Pappajohn Sculpture Park it’s a sure bet after a brisk stroll. You can normally find long lines as there is walk up to the window service only. Their flavors change weekly and you definitely won’t get bored. They offer unique flavors and even ice cream flights! We tried the Georgia Peach + Molasses, Chocolate and Cream Cheese Lemon Cake. I must say they were very refreshing.
Tasty Tacos // I love Mexican cuisine and soon as I saw their fluffy flour shells I knew I had to give it a try. This chain has a wide variety of options to choose from at affordable prices. The tacos are very filling. I got two and couldn’t finish both.
Hurt’s Donuts // This is the cutest donut shop ever! It puts me in the mind frame of a restaurant before a donut shop. You will find plenty of seating, cute art, and the stench of sweetness in the air! Good luck trying to narrow down your donut choices. They have a vast selection to choose from and this makes it so difficult to choose. I will say the donuts were nice and fresh! My favorite selection was the “Jesus” donut. Be sure to snap a picture with some of the cutest instagrammable art work to let your followers know you were there. After all, if you don’t have a picture it didn’t happen, right!?
The Reason We Went To Iowa #AAUJROGAMES
Bonus: Attended the National Balloon Classic during our visit
Find more information to help you plan your visit HERE.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Des Moines?
What are you waiting for!?! GO OWN YOUR FANCY!!!
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