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 801 Grand or Des Moines Civic Center might round out your trip.
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 Des Moines' Downtown Farmers' Market while you're in town.
Drake
While visiting Drake, you might make a stop by sights like Knapp Center and Des Moines Community Playhouse.
Western Gateway
While visiting Western Gateway, you might make a stop by sights like John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park and Pappajohn Sculpture Park.
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.
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton
Reviewed on 5 Oct 2025
Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines
Reviewed on 5 Oct 2025
Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines - Merle Hay Road
Reviewed on 6 Oct 2025
Kasa Downtown Des Moines
Reviewed on 1 Oct 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 lively festivals and great live music.
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 lively festivals and great live music.
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 lively festivals and acclaimed theatre scene.
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
