Des Moines, Iowa was originally inhabited by the Native American tribes of the Fox and Sauk. In the early 19th century, it became a trading post for European fur traders and settlers. In 1843, the city was officially incorporated and named after the Des Moines River, which runs through the area. During the Civil War, Des Moines served as an important hub for the Union Army, providing troops, supplies, and support for the war effort. After the war, the city experienced rapid growth and development, with industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and finance thriving. In the 20th century, Des Moines became known as a major center for insurance and financial services, earning the nickname “Insurance Capital of the World.” The city also became a cultural and artistic hub, with a vibrant music and arts scene. Today, Des Moines is a diverse and thriving city, known for its quality of life, strong economy, and vibrant cultural scene.

1. Healthcare
2. Technology
3. Education
4. Retail
5. Hospitality
6. Finance
7. Manufacturing
8. Construction
9. Government
10. Transportation

1. Hiking
2. Skiing
3. Fishing
4. Biking
5. Camping
6. Golfing
7. Boating
8. Wine Tasting
9. Shopping
10. Art Galleries

Average Temperature: Low: 45°F, High: 70°F

Average Precipitation: 2 inches

Elevation: 3,000 feet

Average Home Price: $400,000

Average Household Income: $60,000

1. Historic Old Town
2. Natural History Museum
3. Botanical Gardens
4. Zoo
5. Wineries
6. Waterfront Park
7. Shopping District
8. Art Museum
9. Golf Courses
10. Local Breweries

The top 10 restaurants:

801 Chophouse – Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines

801 Chophouse is the premier steakhouse in Des Moines, offering prime USDA steaks, innovative side dishes, and an award-winning wine selection. The restaurant provides an upscale dining experience and even offers private dining room options.

Wasabi – Waukee

West Des Moines

Wasabi in Waukee offers a diverse sushi menu and is known for its exceptional customer service. The restaurant provides a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular choice for sushi enthusiasts.

Proudfoot and Bird

Des Moines

Proudfoot and Bird is known for its attentive staff, delicious food, and exceptional service. The restaurant offers a variety of popular dishes, including French Onion Soup and Warm Ricotta, creating a delightful dining experience for guests.

Blue Sushi Sake Grill – Des Moines

Des Moines

Blue Sushi Sake Grill in Des Moines offers a unique dining experience with its Southeast Asian eats, including bing bing wraps, sweet potato panang curry, and pad lao noodles. The restaurant’s distinctive neon kung fu chic ambiance adds to its appeal.

Aura Restaurant & Lounge

Urbandale

Aura Restaurant & Lounge offers lively and flavorful tapas, along with vibrant cocktails, creating a unique shared dining experience. The restaurant’s invigorating environment is the perfect place to gather with friends and family.

Cooper’s On 5th

West Des Moines

Cooper’s On 5th in West Des Moines offers American cuisine with a diverse menu, providing a delightful dining experience for guests. The restaurant is known for its exceptional food and welcoming ambiance.

Waterfront Seafood Market

West Des Moines and Ankeny

Waterfront Seafood Market offers a unique seafood dining experience, with fish flown in daily and prepared to guests’ preferences. The restaurant provides a New England-esque bistro atmosphere, offering a variety of seafood options, including scallops, live Maine lobster, sushi, and chowder.

Lucky Lotus

Des Moines

Lucky Lotus in Des Moines offers Southeast Asian eats that can’t be found anywhere else, including bing bing wraps, sweet potato panang curry, and pad lao noodles. The restaurant’s distinctive neon kung fu chic ambiance adds to its appeal.

RoCA

Des Moines

RoCA has been serving small plates with big flavors on Court Avenue since 2014. The restaurant is great for groups who want to try a little of everything, and it has made its mark with its flatbreads, fondue, and sliders for days.

Alba

Des Moines

Alba in Des Moines offers a delightful dining experience with its diverse menu, including options like steak frites and mussels. The restaurant provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular choice for guests.

Current Events:

Apr 12
Thu • 1:00pm

Monster Jam

Wells Fargo Arena – Des Moines

Apr 12
Thu • 7:00pm

Monster Jam

Wells Fargo Arena – Des Moines

Apr 13
Thu • 1:00pm

Monster Jam

Wells Fargo Arena – Des Moines

Mar 14
Thu • 6:30pm

Avenged Sevenfold: Life Is But A Dream…North American Tour

Wells Fargo Arena – Des Moines

Mar 16
Thu • 7:00pm

Chappell Roan

Wooly’s

Apr 10
Thu • 7:30pm

Lil’ Wayne

Wells Fargo Arena – Des Moines

May 04
Thu • 7:30pm

Whose Live Anyway?

Hoyt Sherman Place

May 16
Thu • 7:30pm

Cody Johnson

Wells Fargo Arena – Des Moines

Mar 14
Thu • 8:00pm

Matteo Lane: The Al Dente Tour FINAL DATES

Hoyt Sherman Place