What is downtown like in in Des Moines, Iowa in 2024? Does it even have one?

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Random City

Does Des Moines have a downtown? Is it vibrant? Is it safe? Here's what three local experts had to say about downtown in Des Moines, Iowa.

Des Moines is the capital of Iowa. It’s a large city with a small-town feel. The capitol building is quite beautiful, and is something a visitor to our city should see. Our downtown is growing and thriving, and our old main library building has been transformed into the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates.

HELPFUL REPORT

The downtown section of Des Moines is filled with many business buildings and has many good places to eat. There are multiple murals and sculptures downtown, making it very beautiful in some parts. As for driving downtown, it can be a little tricky. There are many one-ways that can be inconvenient.

Des Moines is so much more than just a flyover city. There are thriving scenes for food, music, art, outdoor living, and more. Our downtown farmer’s market is one of the best in the country, and offers a vast assortment of produce, meat, baked goods, coffee/tea, and specialty foods, and jewelry and home goods. We have a gorgeous sculpture park downtown, beautiful lakes where people can swim or rent boats, and a impressive system of trails for walking, biking, and hiking.

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What is downtown like in in Des Moines, Iowa?

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