10 TOP Things to Do in Central Iowa (2026 Activity Guide)

Iowa State University featuring heritage architecture and a lake or waterhole

Reiman Gardens which includes a garden and signage as well as a family

Iowa State Capitol Building which includes a park and heritage architecture

Reiman Gardens showing wildflowers and a park

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What to do in Central Iowa

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.

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.

Aerial View of the Iowa State Fair in the Des Moines Metro Area

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.

Iowa Events Center

Learn about the events happening at Iowa Events Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and acclaimed theater scene.

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.

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.

Casey's Center

Catch an event at Casey's Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and acclaimed theater scene.

Adventureland

Bring the family to Adventureland and enjoy this exciting amusement park in Altoona. Experience the area's lively festivals and great live music.

Areas of Central Iowa

State Historical Society of Iowa Museum which includes a high rise building, landscape views and a city

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.

View into downtown from the Capitol Building.

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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.

Historic East Village

Find beautiful government buildings, cultural attractions and a garden oasis in this older section of the city extending along a pretty riverfront.

Checked out the Mars Cafe in Des Moines, IA. Great spot with good seating, wifi, and a pretty good latte. Nice flavor to the espresso. A good spot for a light lunch wit good sandwiches.

If I have to be in Iowa it's nice to find a good coffee joint.

Drake

If you're spending some time in Drake, Knapp Center and Des Moines Community Playhouse are top sights worth seeing.

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 Air Lanes Bowling Center and Gray’s Lake Park.