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Guide to Des Moines, USA - Iowa
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Click to go to Flight Prices for Des Moines
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Des MoinesOther US state capitals may not be overcome with zeal when they hear mention of Des Moines, but the Iowan capital plays considerably well with visitors, a characteristic others in the region appear rather uninterested in. Never too crowded as to put off potential vacationers and sightseers, Des Moines has what it takes to satisfy the travel critic in all of us - and sports a decent culture scene to boot. You can trace thousands of others' steps along the Des Moines River, jumping into the shallows for some "catch-the-trout" activities (or to cool your heat on especially simmering summer days), and make plans for an evening of sophisticated dining and theatre all in the same day. Never giving the impression that one is too far from the North American wilds, Des Moines is a place where becoming one with nature is easily attainable, yet it still offers the security of innumerable services capable of providing anything from budget accommodations to a full suite of provisions. Yes, it is hard not to love Des Moines for what it is. I.M. Pei sculptures at its Art Center; a vast library inside the Historical Building; and an astounding proximity to the literarily-famed bridges of Madison County. You don't have to be a fanatic for sculpture, or sleep with a Robert Waller novel tucked under your pillow to find Des Moines a wonderful destination, however. Visit the city's parks during your stay, or venture by rail to scope out the wonders of Iowa's countryside. Whatever you choose to do, know that the ordinary is certainly not included in the ticket price.
When to go:
Because it has quite a few bodies of water to show for it, Des Moines is one of those few Midwestern cities that lacks horrid summers, and is brought fresh valley breezes on a near daily basis. Between the months of March and June, Des Moines is considered especially lovely for its displays of blooming spectacles. Also, the spring season is the time when many residents take to the streets in larger and larger numbers (as the days progress) and turn the city into a thriving scene.
Getting there and around:
Similar to most (or all, at this point in time) US capitals, Des Moines is home to an international airport, one that provides access to the North American continent's major cities, but not much else. The closest a European traveler can get to a direct connection to Des Moines is a stop over in Chicago, though it's normally advised to take quantity over quality when considering air transit, in which case you're better off making your first stop in New York. Within the city center, metro buses are clearly the way to go. However, the further you reach, the less Des Moines resembles a metropolis. If you think you're likely to wander about the area in broad terms, you may be better off familiarizing yourself with parking meters and rent a vehicle. Otherwise, public transportation is the logically appropriate method to take.
Attractions:
Modern art is it's forte, and sculpture is its biggest draw. Can you guess the site? Right-o. The Des Moines Art Center is a spectacle the city is no doubt proud to call its own. It's biggest downside is its operating schedule:11:00am-4:00pm Tues-Fri (closed Monday); 12:00pm-4pm Sat-Sun. If a 15,000-year-old relative of the elephant is something you'd like a glimpse of, or a trip through the last century of American progression grabs your attention, a visit to the Iowa Historical Building is due. You may get through the museum quickly, giving you spare time to browse the volumes of the building's library.
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