3 day itinerary for Des Moines

Itinerary

Des Moines is a great city with plenty of things to do and see. Here's an ideal itinerary for 3 days in Des Moines:

Day 1:

Start your day with a visit to the Des Moines Art Center. This museum has an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by artists like Edward Hopper, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Andy Warhol. After exploring the museum, head to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, which is located just outside the museum. This park features over 20 sculptures by artists like Jaume Plensa, Louise Bourgeois, and Richard Serra.

For lunch, head to the East Village neighborhood. This area has plenty of great restaurants to choose from, including Zombie Burger, which serves up delicious burgers and milkshakes. After lunch, take a stroll through the neighborhood and check out the local shops and boutiques.

In the afternoon, head to the Iowa State Capitol. This beautiful building is home to the governor's office, the Iowa Senate, and the Iowa House of Representatives. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the building.

For dinner, head to the Court Avenue District. This area has plenty of great restaurants and bars to choose from, including Fong's Pizza, which serves up delicious pizza and tiki drinks.

Day 2:

Start your day with a visit to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. This beautiful garden features a variety of plants and flowers, including a tropical conservatory and an outdoor garden. After exploring the garden, head to the nearby Science Center of Iowa. This museum has plenty of hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that are fun for all ages.

For lunch, head to the Ingersoll neighborhood. This area has plenty of great restaurants to choose from, including Eatery A, which serves up delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. After lunch, take a stroll through the neighborhood and check out the local shops and boutiques.

In the afternoon, head to the Blank Park Zoo. This zoo features a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. You can also take a ride on the zoo's train or carousel.

For dinner, head to the West Des Moines neighborhood. This area has plenty of great restaurants and bars to choose from, including Jethro's BBQ, which serves up delicious barbecue and craft beer.

Day 3:

Start your day with a visit to the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Even if the fair isn't in town, you can still explore the grounds and check out the various buildings and exhibits. After exploring the fairgrounds, head to the nearby Living History Farms. This outdoor museum features a variety of historic buildings and exhibits that showcase life in Iowa during the 19th century.

For lunch, head to the Drake neighborhood. This area has plenty of great restaurants to choose from, including Gazali's, which serves up delicious Mediterranean cuisine. After lunch, take a stroll through the neighborhood and check out the local shops and boutiques.

In the afternoon, head to the Des Moines Riverwalk. This scenic trail runs along the Des Moines River and offers great views of the city skyline. You can also rent a bike or kayak to explore the river.

For dinner, head to the East Village neighborhood. This area has plenty of great restaurants and bars to choose from, including El Bait Shop, which serves up delicious tacos and craft beer.