Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene. While many visitors are familiar with the city’s most popular attractions, such as the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and the Des Moines Art Center, there are also a number of hidden gems worth exploring. Here are eight hidden places to visit in Des Moines in July 2024:
July is a great time to visit Des Moines, as the weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures in the mid-80s. There are also a number of festivals and events taking place in the city during this time, such as the Des Moines Arts Festival and the Iowa State Fair. If you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path travel experience, be sure to check out these hidden gems in Des Moines.
1. The Lauridsen Skatepark
The Lauridsen Skatepark is one of the largest and most popular skateparks in the country. It’s a great place to watch skateboarders of all ages and skill levels show off their moves. The park is also home to a number of events and competitions throughout the year.
The Lauridsen Skatepark is located in downtown Des Moines, next to the Des Moines River. It’s open to the public from dawn to dusk, and admission is free.
2. The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a beautiful 14-acre garden that features a variety of plants and flowers. The garden is divided into several different sections, including a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and a butterfly garden. There is also a conservatory that houses tropical plants and flowers.
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is located in downtown Des Moines, next to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. It’s open to the public from 9am to 5pm, and admission is free.
3. The Des Moines Pastoral Symphony Orchestra
The Des Moines Pastoral Symphony Orchestra is a professional orchestra that performs a variety of classical music concerts throughout the year. The orchestra is known for its high quality performances and its commitment to music education. The orchestra performs at a variety of venues in Des Moines, including the Civic Center and the Des Moines Performing Arts Center.
Tickets to Des Moines Pastoral Symphony Orchestra concerts can be purchased online or at the door. Prices vary depending on the concert and the seat location.
4. The Salisbury House and Gardens
The Salisbury House and Gardens is a historic mansion that was built in 1923. The mansion is a beautiful example of Tudor Revival architecture, and it is surrounded by beautiful gardens. The gardens are home to a variety of plants and flowers, and they are a popular spot for weddings and other special events.
The Salisbury House and Gardens is located in the Drake University neighborhood of Des Moines. It’s open to the public for tours from Tuesday to Sunday. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $5 for children.
5. The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a 4.4-acre park that features over 30 sculptures by world-renowned artists. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, and it’s also a popular spot for photo shoots. The park is located in downtown Des Moines, next to the Des Moines River. It’s open to the public 24 hours a day, and admission is free.
6. The Des Moines Art Center
The Des Moines Art Center is a major art museum that features a collection of over 6,000 works of art. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, and photographs. The museum also hosts a variety of exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year. The Des Moines Art Center is located in downtown Des Moines, next to the Des Moines River. It’s open to the public Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is free.
7. The Iowa State Capitol Building
The Iowa State Capitol Building is a beautiful building that houses the Iowa state government. The building is a National Historic Landmark, and it’s one of the most recognizable landmarks in Des Moines. The building is open to the public for tours from Monday to Friday. Admission is free.
8. The Des Moines Farmers’ Market
The Des Moines Farmers’ Market is a vibrant market that features a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. The market is a great place to support local farmers and businesses. The market is located in downtown Des Moines, on Court Avenue between 3rd and 4th Streets. It’s open to the public on Saturdays from 7am to 1pm.
Culture
Des Moines is a city with a rich culture. The city is home to a number of museums, theaters, and art galleries. The city also hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Des Moines Arts Festival and the Iowa State Fair.
Des Moines is also a city with a strong sense of community. The city is home to a number of volunteer organizations and non-profits. The city also has a number of initiatives in place to support local businesses and entrepreneurs.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Des Moines is during the summer months, from May to September. The weather is warm and sunny during this time, and there are a number of festivals and events taking place in the city.
If you are looking to avoid the crowds, you may want to visit Des Moines during the shoulder months, from April to May or from September to October. The weather is still mild during these months, and there are fewer tourists in the city.
Nearby Transportation
Des Moines is located in the center of Iowa, and it is easily accessible by car or plane. The city is served by the Des Moines International Airport, which offers flights to a number of cities across the United States. The city is also served by a number of bus and train lines.
Once you are in Des Moines, you can get around the city by car, bus, or bike. The city has a good public transportation system, and there are a number of bike lanes and trails throughout the city.
Local Food
Des Moines is home to a number of great restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines. The city is known for its barbecue, and there are a number of barbecue restaurants in the city, such as Smokey D’s and Jethro’s BBQ. The city is also home to a number of other great restaurants, such as Alba, Django, and Gateway Market.
Best Hotels
There are a number of great hotels in Des Moines. The city is home to a number of luxury hotels, such as the Des Moines Marriott Downtown and the Hilton Des Moines Downtown. The city also has a number of more affordable hotels, such as the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown and the Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown.
Conclusion
Des Moines is a vibrant city with a rich culture and a thriving arts and food scene. The city is home to a number of hidden gems, such as the Lauridsen Skatepark, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and the Salisbury House and Gardens. The city is also home to a number of great restaurants, hotels, and attractions. If you are looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path travel experience, be sure to check out Des Moines.
