Things to do in Central Iowa
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Popular places to visit
Iowa State University
Visit this public university to learn about its agricultural history and explore the many museums and cultural centers on the campus.
Adventureland
Bring the family to Adventureland and enjoy this exciting amusement park in Altoona. Experience the area's great live music and lively festivals.
Principal Park
Catch an event at Principal Park during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music and acclaimed theater scene.
University of Northern Iowa
Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit University of Northern Iowa, during your trip to Cedar Falls. Discover the beautiful waterfalls in this family-friendly area.
Iowa State Capitol Building
A city landmark, this interesting building showcases design and architectural features that created a grand impression in the late 1800s and still inspire today.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Experience the tropics in an indoor garden oasis nearly 100 years old alongside a meandering river in this Midwestern city.
Drake University
Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit Drake University, during your travels in Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.
Iowa State Fairgrounds
Enjoy an outing to Iowa State Fairgrounds during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event.
Jordan Creek Town Center
You can enjoy retail therapy at Jordan Creek Town Center during your visit to West Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event.
Areas of 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 Des Moines Civic Center or Science Center of Iowa 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 Iowa State Capitol Building and Wooly's while you're in town.
Greater South Side
While Greater South Side might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Gray’s Lake Park and Lauridsen Amphitheater.
Court District
Court District is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Science Center of Iowa and Principal Park while in the area.
Beaverdale
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Beaverdale and surrounding area, you can visit Merle Hay Mall and Des Moines Art Center.
Waveland Park
While visiting Waveland Park, you might make a stop by sights like Waveland Municipal Golf Course and Des Moines Community Playhouse.
