West Des Moines Map

Located in the heart of Iowa, West Des Moines is a vibrant and thriving city that offers a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. From historical landmarks to outdoor adventures, from the local food scene to the art and music scene, West Des Moines has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that this city has to offer. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Top Attractions

West Des Moines is home to several top-rated attractions that are a must-visit for every traveler. Some of the most popular attractions include:

Jordan Creek Town Center

Jordan Creek Town Center is a premier shopping destination that features over 200 stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. From luxury brands to local boutiques, Jordan Creek has something for every shopper. The mall also features a movie theater, an indoor ice rink, and a children’s play area.

Valley Junction

Valley Junction is a historic district that is home to several boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The district also hosts several events throughout the year, including farmers’ markets, art and wine walks, and live music performances.

Raccoon River Park

Raccoon River Park is a beautiful park that offers several outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The park also features several picnic areas, a playground, and a beach for swimming.

Hidden Gems

While the top attractions are definitely worth a visit, West Des Moines also has several hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. Here are a few of our favorites:

West Des Moines Farmers’ Market

The West Des Moines Farmers’ Market is a local favorite that features several vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The market is held every Thursday evening from May to October and is a great place to sample some of the local flavors.

Brenton Arboretum

The Brenton Arboretum is a beautiful 141-acre nature reserve that features several walking trails, gardens, and a lake. The arboretum also hosts several events throughout the year, including birdwatching walks, photography workshops, and nature hikes.

West Des Moines Historical Society

The West Des Moines Historical Society is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into the history of the city. The society maintains a museum that features several exhibits on the city’s history, including artifacts, photographs, and documents.

Food Scene

The food scene in West Des Moines is diverse and delicious. From local favorites to international cuisine, there’s something for every taste bud. Here are a few of our favorite restaurants:

Malo

Malo is a contemporary Mexican restaurant that offers a unique twist on traditional Mexican flavors. The restaurant also features an extensive selection of tequila and mezcal.

Twisted Vine Brewery

The Twisted Vine Brewery is a local favorite that offers a selection of craft beers and pub food. The brewery also hosts several events throughout the year, including trivia nights and live music performances.

Pho Shobu

Pho Shobu is a Vietnamese restaurant that offers a variety of pho dishes, as well as other Vietnamese specialties. The restaurant also has a sushi bar and a selection of sake and Asian beers.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling can be expensive, but there are several ways to explore West Des Moines on a budget. Here are a few tips:

Visit the Parks

West Des Moines has several beautiful parks that offer free admission. Take a picnic lunch and spend the day exploring the trails and enjoying the scenery.

Take a Walking Tour

Several organizations offer free walking tours of West Des Moines, including the West Des Moines Historical Society and the Valley Junction Foundation. These tours are a great way to learn about the history of the city and explore the local neighborhoods.

Check Out the Farmers’ Market

The West Des Moines Farmers’ Market is a great place to sample some of the local flavors without breaking the bank. Many vendors offer free samples, and the prices are generally lower than at restaurants.

Outdoor Adventures

West Des Moines is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking to fishing and boating, there are several outdoor activities to choose from. Here are a few of our favorites:

Jordan Creek Trail

The Jordan Creek Trail is a 12-mile trail that runs from Water Works Park in Des Moines to the Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and jogging.

Lake Aquabi

Lake Aquabi is a beautiful lake that offers several outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and kayaking. The lake also has several picnic areas and a beach for swimming.

Brown’s Woods

Brown’s Woods is a 486-acre nature preserve that offers several hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. The preserve is home to several species of birds, including woodpeckers, owls, and hawks.

Family-Friendly Activities

West Des Moines is a great destination for families. From parks and museums to zoos and amusement parks, there are several activities that kids will love. Here are a few of our favorites:

Blank Park Zoo

The Blank Park Zoo is a 49-acre zoo that is home to several animal species, including lions, tigers, and bears. The zoo also has several interactive exhibits and a carousel.

Pump It Up

Pump It Up is an indoor play center that features several inflatable attractions, including slides, obstacle courses, and bounce houses. The center also hosts birthday parties and other events.

Science Center of Iowa

The Science Center of Iowa is a hands-on museum that offers several interactive exhibits on science and technology. The museum also has a planetarium and an IMAX theater.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little different, West Des Moines has several off-the-beaten-path experiences that are worth checking out. Here are a few:

West Des Moines Public Art Tour

West Des Moines is home to several public art installations, including murals, sculptures, and paintings. Take a self-guided tour to discover the hidden art gems around the city.

Wine Tasting at Summerset Winery

Summerset Winery is a local winery that offers wine tastings and tours. The winery also hosts several events throughout the year, including live music performances and grape stomping parties.

Haunted History Tour

The West Des Moines Historical Society offers a haunted history tour that explores the city’s spooky past. The tour includes several haunted sites and ghost stories.

Natural Wonders

West Des Moines is surrounded by several natural wonders that are worth a visit. From lakes and rivers to state parks and wildlife preserves, there are several opportunities to explore the beauty of Iowa. Here are a few:

Yellow Banks Park

Yellow Banks Park is a beautiful park that is located on the banks of the Des Moines River. The park offers several outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating.

Ledges State Park

Ledges State Park is a 1,500-acre state park that is known for its beautiful sandstone cliffs and hiking trails. The park also has several picnic areas and a campground.

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

The Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is a 5,600-acre wildlife preserve that is home to several endangered species, including bison and elk. The preserve also has several hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Vibrant Nightlife

West Des Moines may be a small city, but it has a vibrant nightlife scene. From bars and clubs to live music venues, there are several places to party the night away. Here are a few:

Wellman’s Pub and Rooftop

Wellman’s Pub and Rooftop is a popular bar that offers several craft beers on tap, as well as pub food and live music performances. The rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city skyline.

Gas Lamp

Gas Lamp is a live music venue that features several local and national acts. The venue also has a full bar and a selection of pub food.

West Glen Town Center

West Glen Town Center is a shopping and entertainment district that features several bars and restaurants. The district also hosts several events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and festivals.