Best Things To Do in West Des Moines, Iowa
Explore Jordan Creek Town Center, a premier shopping destination. Visit Raccoon River Park for outdoor activities and scenic views.
West Des Moines, Iowa, offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. Jordan Creek Town Center stands as a top shopping and dining hub. Raccoon River Park features a picturesque lake, trails, and a beach. The city also boasts a vibrant arts scene with the Des Moines Art Center.
Historic Valley Junction provides unique shopping experiences. Families can enjoy the Science Center of Iowa. West Des Moines is perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Its diverse attractions cater to all interests. Discover the best of the Midwest in this welcoming city.
Explore Historic Valley Junction
When visiting West Des Moines, a trip to Historic Valley Junction is a must. This charming district offers a unique blend of history, culture, and shopping. Stroll through the streets and experience a vibrant community atmosphere.
Boutiques And Shops
Historic Valley Junction is home to many unique boutiques and shops. You can find one-of-a-kind items that you won’t see anywhere else. The shops offer a range of products, from handmade crafts to vintage clothing.
- The Nook: A cozy shop with charming home decor.
- MoMere: Known for its stylish and trendy apparel.
- Vintage & Made Fair: Perfect for those who love vintage finds.
Dining Options
After shopping, try one of the many dining options. There are restaurants to suit every taste. Enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends.
- Cozy Cafe: A favorite for breakfast and brunch.
- G Mig’s 5th Street Pub: Known for its hearty pub fare.
- Cooper’s on 5th: Offers a fine dining experience.
Whether you are shopping or dining, Historic Valley Junction has something for everyone. Make sure to explore this delightful area on your visit to West Des Moines.
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Visit Raccoon River Park
If you’re planning a trip to West Des Moines, Iowa, make sure to visit Raccoon River Park. This beautiful park offers a range of activities for everyone. From relaxing on the beach to exploring nature trails, there’s something for everyone.
Beach And Boating
Enjoy the serene setting of the park’s beach area. It’s perfect for a sunny day out. Pack a picnic and relax on the sandy shore. Feel the cool breeze as you sunbathe or take a swim in the lake.
For water enthusiasts, the park offers boating facilities. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe and explore the waters. The calm lake is ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Here’s a quick look at the beach and boating options:
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Beach | Open daily, lifeguards on duty, picnic spots available |
| Kayaking | Rentals available, beginner-friendly |
| Paddleboarding | Great for all skill levels |
| Canoeing | Scenic routes, rentals available |
Nature Trails
Discover the beauty of Raccoon River Park through its nature trails. These trails are well-marked and suitable for all ages. Walk or bike through lush greenery and enjoy the fresh air.
The park has several trails, offering different levels of difficulty. You can choose a short, easy walk or a longer, more challenging hike. Along the way, you’ll encounter local wildlife and beautiful scenery.
- Short Loop Trail – Easy, 1 mile
- Lake View Trail – Moderate, 2 miles
- Woodland Trail – Challenging, 3 miles
Each trail provides a unique experience and stunning views. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the moments!
Enjoy Jordan Creek Town Center
Jordan Creek Town Center is a bustling hub in West Des Moines, Iowa. It offers a variety of activities for everyone. From shopping to dining, there’s something for all ages.
Shopping Experience
Jordan Creek Town Center boasts a diverse range of stores. You can find top brands and unique boutiques. The shopping experience here is one of a kind.
- Apple Store: Get the latest gadgets and tech support.
- Sephora: Find top beauty products and expert advice.
- Von Maur: Enjoy high-end fashion and excellent service.
- Build-A-Bear Workshop: Create a custom stuffed animal.
Dining And Entertainment
Jordan Creek Town Center has a variety of dining options. You can enjoy fast food or sit-down meals. There are choices for every taste and budget.
| Restaurant | Cuisine |
|---|---|
| Cheesecake Factory | American |
| P.F. Chang’s | Asian |
| Bravo! Cucina Italiana | Italian |
| Chick-fil-A | Fast Food |
Entertainment options are also plentiful. Catch a movie at the 20-screen theater. You can also enjoy the scenic lake and walking paths. The town center hosts events and live music too.
- AMC Theatres: Watch the latest blockbusters.
- Lake Walks: Enjoy a peaceful stroll.
- Live Events: Check the calendar for special events.
Jordan Creek Town Center is a must-visit spot in West Des Moines. It offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Credit: www.tripadvisor.com
Discover Living History Farms
Living History Farms in West Des Moines offers a unique look into Iowa’s past. This outdoor museum spans 500 acres and showcases rural life from the 1700s to the 1900s. It’s a perfect place for families and history lovers alike.
Historic Demonstrations
At Living History Farms, you can see historic demonstrations that bring the past to life. Watch blacksmiths forge tools using traditional methods. See farmers plow fields with horse-drawn equipment.
These demonstrations happen daily and provide a hands-on history lesson. Kids and adults alike will enjoy seeing these activities up close.
Interactive Exhibits
The interactive exhibits are a highlight at Living History Farms. Step into a 1700s Ioway Indian Farm and learn about Native American life. Visit an 1850s pioneer farm and see how early settlers lived.
There are also exhibits from the 1900s, showing more modern farming techniques. Touch, see, and experience history first-hand through these engaging exhibits.
| Exhibit | Era | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Ioway Indian Farm | 1700s | Learn about Native American life |
| Pioneer Farm | 1850s | See early settler activities |
| 1900s Farm | 1900s | Explore modern farming techniques |
Living History Farms offers something for everyone. Learn and explore the past in a fun, interactive way.
Relax At Clive Greenbelt Trail
West Des Moines, Iowa, offers a hidden gem for nature lovers. The Clive Greenbelt Trail is perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. This scenic trail stretches along the meandering Walnut Creek. It provides a peaceful retreat for families, friends, and solo adventurers.
Hiking And Biking
The Clive Greenbelt Trail is ideal for both hiking and biking. The trail is well-maintained, ensuring a smooth journey for everyone. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a casual biker, this trail welcomes all. The path is mostly flat, making it accessible for kids and seniors alike.
- Wide paths for easy movement
- Bike rentals available nearby
- Mile markers to track your progress
Scenic Views
The trail offers stunning views of nature. As you walk or bike, you’ll see lush greenery and vibrant flowers. The sound of Walnut Creek flowing adds to the tranquility. Several benches are placed along the trail for resting and soaking in the views.
| Scenic Spot | Features |
|---|---|
| Walnut Creek | Flowing water, serene ambiance |
| Flower Patches | Colorful blooms, great for photos |
| Wooded Areas | Shady spots, cool breezes |
Bring a camera to capture the beauty of Clive Greenbelt Trail. You’ll find countless photo opportunities along the way.
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Experience Art At Des Moines Art Center
West Des Moines offers a vibrant art scene. The Des Moines Art Center stands out as a must-visit spot. This center showcases a blend of modern art and special exhibits. It’s perfect for art lovers and curious minds alike.
Modern Art Collections
The Des Moines Art Center boasts an impressive collection of modern art. The works here span various styles and periods.
- Paintings by renowned artists
- Sculptures that captivate the imagination
- Photographs that tell stories
Each piece in the collection offers a unique perspective. Visitors can explore the diverse range of art forms and techniques. This makes every visit a new adventure.
Special Exhibits
The Des Moines Art Center regularly hosts special exhibits. These exhibits feature both local and international artists. They provide fresh and exciting content for visitors.
- Exclusive art pieces
- Interactive installations
- Workshops and talks
Special exhibits often focus on contemporary themes. They engage visitors with thought-provoking works. Be sure to check the schedule for upcoming exhibits.
Plan a visit to the Des Moines Art Center and immerse yourself in the world of art. It’s a cultural treasure in West Des Moines that promises a memorable experience.
Attend Events At Wells Fargo Arena
Wells Fargo Arena in West Des Moines, Iowa, offers endless entertainment. From thrilling sports events to mesmerizing concerts, there’s something for everyone. This arena is a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists. Let’s explore the best things to do here.
Sports Events
Wells Fargo Arena hosts exciting sports events. The arena is home to the Iowa Wolves, a popular basketball team. Fans can also watch the Iowa Wild, the local hockey team. Each game is full of energy and excitement. The atmosphere is electric, making it a perfect place for sports lovers.
Here’s a quick look at the sports events:
- Basketball games featuring the Iowa Wolves
- Hockey matches with the Iowa Wild
- Wrestling and MMA events
Concerts And Shows
Wells Fargo Arena is also a hub for concerts and shows. It attracts top artists from around the world. Music lovers can enjoy live performances across various genres. The arena’s state-of-the-art sound system ensures an incredible experience.
Some popular shows include:
- Rock and pop concerts
- Country music festivals
- Broadway musicals and theater productions
Here’s a table showcasing upcoming events:
| Event | Date | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| Rock Concert | August 15 | Rock |
| Country Music Festival | September 10 | Country |
| Broadway Musical | October 5 | Theater |
Attending events at Wells Fargo Arena is a fantastic experience. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or a music fan, there’s always something exciting happening.
Family Fun At Blank Park Zoo
Looking for a fun family day out in West Des Moines, Iowa? Blank Park Zoo is the perfect destination. This zoo offers exciting animal exhibits and interactive programs that will delight visitors of all ages. Explore the wonders of wildlife and create lasting memories with your family.
Animal Exhibits
Blank Park Zoo features a wide variety of animal exhibits. From majestic lions to playful penguins, there’s something for everyone.
- African Lions: Watch the king of the jungle in action.
- Penguin Cove: See the penguins waddle and swim.
- Tropical Rainforest: Discover exotic birds and reptiles.
- Australian Outback: Meet kangaroos and wallabies.
Each exhibit is designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitats. This provides an enriching experience for both the animals and visitors. Don’t forget to bring your camera for some fantastic photo opportunities!
Interactive Programs
Blank Park Zoo offers various interactive programs that engage and educate visitors.
- Animal Encounters: Get up close with friendly animals.
- Zookeeper Chats: Learn from the experts about animal care.
- Feeding Sessions: Watch animals enjoy their meals.
- Kids’ Play Area: Let the little ones have some fun.
Interactive programs make the visit even more special. Kids can learn while having fun, and adults can enjoy the educational aspect of the zoo. These programs run throughout the day, so there’s always something exciting happening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Popular Attractions In West Des Moines?
West Des Moines offers many attractions. Jordan Creek Town Center is a top spot for shopping and dining. Raccoon River Park provides outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Valley Junction is great for local shops and art galleries.
What Outdoor Activities Are Available In West Des Moines?
West Des Moines has various outdoor activities. Raccoon River Park offers hiking, fishing, and boating. Walnut Woods State Park is perfect for bird-watching and picnics. Clive Greenbelt Trail is ideal for biking and walking.
Where Can I Shop In West Des Moines?
Jordan Creek Town Center is the main shopping destination in West Des Moines. It features numerous stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Valley Junction offers unique local shops and boutiques.
What Family-friendly Activities Are There In West Des Moines?
West Des Moines is family-friendly. Raccoon River Park has a playground and a swimming beach. The Science Center of Iowa offers interactive exhibits. West Grand Golf offers mini-golf and arcade games.
Conclusion
West Des Moines, Iowa, offers a mix of fun and relaxation. Explore its parks, shops, and eateries. This vibrant city has something for everyone. Plan your visit to experience the best things to do. You’ll find memorable activities and attractions in West Des Moines.
Enjoy your adventure!