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.
Historic East Village
Historic East Village is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Wooly's and Iowa State Capitol Building 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.
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.
Drake
While visiting Drake, you might make a stop by sights like Des Moines Community Playhouse and Knapp Center.
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.
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Popular places to visit
Iowa State University
Take a campus tour or just explore the area around Iowa State University, a top university in 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.
Principal Park
You can take time to visit Principal Park during your travels to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.
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.
Jordan Creek Town Center
You can do some window-shopping at Jordan Creek Town Center during your visit to West Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music or attend a sporting event.
- Adventureland
- Jordan Creek Town Center
- Drake University
- Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino
- Principal Park
- Iowa Speedway
- Blank Park Zoo
- Iowa Events Center
- Knoxville Raceway
- Iowa State Capitol Building
- Diamond Jo Casino
- Des Moines Civic Center
- Hy Vee Hall
- Grinnell College
- University of Northern Iowa
- Lake Red Rock
- Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
- Surf Ballroom and Museum
- Outlets of Des Moines
- Saylorville Lake
- Stephens Auditorium