Des Moines Travel Guide — Best Time, Things to Do & Where to Stay

Why Des Moines

Des Moines is the capital and most populous city in Iowa, situated at the confluence of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers in the central part of the state. Serving as the county seat of Polk County, with southern sections extending into Warren County, the city sits at the center of a six-county metropolitan region that houses around 750,000 people. Its name originates from the Des Moines River, a phrase adapted from French meaning "of the monks," which itself was derived from an abbreviated name for an Algonquian subgroup that historically inhabited the area.

Archaeological finds indicate that human communities have occupied the river junction for at least 7,000 years. The modern municipality originated in 1843 with the construction of Fort Des Moines, established to manage the relocated Sauk and Meskwaki tribes. The settlement was incorporated as a city in 1851 and shortened its name to Des Moines in 1857 when it succeeded Iowa City as the state capital. The arrival of the railroad in 1866 and the development of extensive coal mining operations drove rapid expansion. In the early 20th century, civic leaders initiated a beautification effort along the riverfront, beginning a long transition from a blue-collar industrial hub into a professional service center.

Des Moines features a prominent skyline dominated by 801 Grand, the tallest building in Iowa, alongside major mid-to-late 20th-century high-rises including the Ruan Center and the Financial Center. Downtown buildings are joined by an elevated four-mile skywalk system that allows pedestrians to travel between properties. The historic urban center includes the Civic Center Historic District, which preserves notable Beaux Arts architecture such as City Hall and the former public library building, now serving as the headquarters for the World Food Prize.

Visitors to the city can explore a range of cultural and educational facilities. Key sights include the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden on the east bank of the river, the Science Center of Iowa, and the State of Iowa Historical Museum. Performance and venue spaces include the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines and the Iowa Events Center. Additionally, as Iowa's capital, Des Moines holds a recognized position in United States presidential politics, frequently hosting campaign headquarters and serving as the focal point for the nation's earliest presidential primary caucuses.