When most people think of Iowa, they picture farmland as far as the eye can see. However, the state’s capital city, Des Moines, is a bustling metropolis with plenty to do. Here’s how to spend a day in Des Moines.
Des Moines Boutique hotels
Start your day off with a cup of coffee from one of the many local coffee shops, like Mars Cafe or Smokey Row Coffee Co. Then, walk off your caffeine buzz by strolling through the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. This 4.4-acre park is home to 29 large-scale sculptures by artists like Claes Oldenburg, Louise Bourgeois, and Richard Serra.
Next, stop by the State Capitol building. Take a free tour to learn about the history of the building and see the beautiful architecture up close. Then, head to the nearby Des Moines Art Center to view the contemporary art collection, which includes paintings, sculptures, and photography from artists all over the world.
For lunch, chow down on a hearty sandwich from Zombie Burger + Drink Lab. This restaurant is known for its over-the-top burgers, like the Walking Dead burger topped with pulled pork, bacon, and a fried onion ring.
After lunch, walk over to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. This 14-acre oasis is the perfect place to take a break from the city and admire the flowers, trees, and shrubs. Then, stroll through the East Village, Des Moines’ hipster neighborhood. Browse the unique shops, stop for a drink at el Bait Shop, and listen to some live music at Gas Lamp.
End your day with dinner at Alba. This upscale restaurant serves seasonal American cuisine, like roasted beet salad and roasted chicken. Make sure to save room for dessert – the chocolate pot de crème is to die for.
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Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, you’ll find plenty to do in Des Moines. So, the next time you’re in Iowa, be sure to check out the state’s capital city.
Spending a day in Des Moines, Iowa is easy and enjoyable, especially when you follow this itinerary! And when you're ready to retire for the evening, be sure to stay at one of the city's boutique hotels, like The Hotel Kirkwood or The Sayward-Hayward House.