Central Iowa Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Central Iowa
Where to stay in Central Iowa
Downtown Des Moines
The abundant dining options and live music are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Des Moines. A stop by Polk County Courthouse or 801 Grand might round out your trip.
Capitol Park
While there might not be top attractions in Capitol Park, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and Iowa State Capitol Building.
Historic East Village
Historic East Village is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to State Historical Museum of Iowa and Wooly's while you're in town.
Court District
Travellers come to Court District for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Science Center of Iowa and Polk County Courthouse while you're in town.
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.
Southwestern Hills
Though Southwestern Hills may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Air Lanes Bowling Center and Gray’s Lake Park.
Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines
Reviewed on 17 Aug 2025
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton
Reviewed on 21 Aug 2025
Motel 6 West Des Moines, IA
Reviewed on 19 Aug 2025
Kasa Downtown Des Moines
Reviewed on 13 Aug 2025
Popular places to visit
Iowa State University
Explore the campus of Iowa State University during your trip to Ames. In the area, you can attend a football match or basketball game.
Adventureland
Bring the family to Adventureland and enjoy this exciting theme park in Altoona. Experience the area's great live music and lively festivals.
University of Northern Iowa
Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Northern Iowa during your trip to Cedar Falls. Discover the beautiful waterfalls in this family-friendly area.
Principal Park
Catch an event at Principal Park during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and lively festivals.
Iowa State Capitol Building
After visiting Iowa State Capitol Building, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and lively festivals.
Iowa State Fairgrounds
Enjoy an outing to Iowa State Fairgrounds during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.
- Adventureland
- Jordan Creek Town Center
- Drake University
- Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino
- Iowa Events Center
- Knoxville Raceway
- University of Northern Iowa
- Blank Park Zoo
- Principal Park
- Iowa State Capitol Building
- Diamond Jo Casino
- EMC Expo Center
- Iowa Speedway
- Des Moines Civic Center
- Grinnell College
- Lake Red Rock
- Surf Ballroom and Museum
- Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
- Outlets of Des Moines
- Iowa Central Community College
- Stephens Auditorium
- Saylorville Lake