Most Popular Des Moines Tourist Attractions
Des Moines tourist attractions can be found in the heart of the city and in surrounding towns and counties. Here are some of the most popular Des Moines tourist attractions for those visiting Iowa's capital.
Bridges of Madison County
Just a short drive southwest of Des Moines, visitors will encounter charming Madison County, home of the picturesque covered bridges popularized by Robert James Waller's novel "The Bridges of Madison County" and the subsequent film starring Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood. While only six of nearly 20 original bridges remain, five of them are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. While there, stop by Winterset to visit the birthplace of American icon John Wayne.
Iowa State Capitol
Visible for miles in all directions around Des Moines, the central dome of the Iowa State Capitol, gilded with 23-karat gold leaf, is a commanding symbol of the state government and 19th century architecture. Built between 1871 and 1886 from various types of marble, steel and brick, the Capitol has four other copper domes at each corner of the building. Tours are available Monday through Saturday and last about 80 minutes.
Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad
Enjoy the beauty of America's heartland aboard a 1920s-era locomotive as you travel through the Des Moines River Valley from Boone, Iowa, to the old mining town of Fraser, crossing the 156-foot-high Bass Point Creek High Bridge. You can bring food on board or opt for a dinner, dessert or picnic train, which take the same route in historic 1950s railcars, which are enclosed and air-conditioned.
Des Moines Botanical Center
Located close to downtown on the east bank of the Des Moines River, the Des Moines Botanical Center has a collection of more than 15,000 exotic plants outdoors on its 14-acre grounds and inside its interactive display greenhouse. Special events are held regularly and the property also has a cafe and gift shop.
Historic Valley Junction
If shopping, dining and entertainment are on your itinerary, Historic Valley Junction provides a place for all three activities, with more than 120 art galleries, clothing boutiques, antique stores, restaurants and specialty stores -- all located in a nostalgic, renovated railroad district. The original downtown West Des Moines offers regular events such as live music concerts, a summer farmers market and holiday happenings.
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Posted on Jun 27, 2011 by Brian Bixler
