What to do in Central Iowa, IA

Activities, attractions and tours

Iowa State University which includes a lake or waterhole and heritage architecture
Reiman Gardens featuring signage and a park as well as a family
Iowa State Capitol Building which includes heritage architecture and a garden
Reiman Gardens which includes a park and wild flowers
Des Moines Art Center which includes interior views and art

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What to do in Central Iowa


Popular places to visit

Explore areas of Central Iowa

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

Downtown Des Moines

4/5(1 area review)

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.

Downtown Des Moines
Historic East Village

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.

Historic East Village
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Court District

Travellers come to Court District for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Science Center of Iowa and Principal Park while you're in town.

Court District
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Drake

While visiting Drake, you might make a stop by sights like Des Moines Community Playhouse and Knapp Center.

Drake
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park which includes a high-rise building, a garden and a city

Western Gateway

While visiting Western Gateway, you might make a stop by sights like John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park and Pappajohn Sculpture Park.

Western Gateway
Grays Lake showing a lake or waterhole

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.

Greater South Side

Day trip destinations from Central Iowa