Des Moines, Iowa, US

Des Moines, Iowa, combines vibrant arts, vibrant historic sites, and lush green spaces. Travelers can enjoy cultural festivals and the city's welcoming hospitality. Attractions include museums, gardens, and exciting culinary experiences.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/Chicago

Local Time

08:49 AM

Population

214,133

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

63-83°F (17-28°C) - Warm and humid; thunderstorms possible.

Best Time

Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

DSM

Des Moines International Airport

Distance

Approximately 10-15 minutes and 5 miles from downtown Des Moines via Fleur Drive.

Description

Des Moines International Airport offers nonstop flights to major U.S. cities. It features dining, shopping, and free Wi-Fi. The terminal is accessible with close parking options.

Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, offers a blend of cultural vibrancy and Midwest charm with notable landmarks like the State Capitol Building and Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Visitors can explore the Des Moines Art Center, engage with the lively Farmers Market in the warmer months, and delight in the culinary landscape featuring classic and innovative cuisines. Scenic riverfront trails and green spaces provide outdoor enjoyment, while seasonal festivals add to the city's dynamic atmosphere.

Top trips icon

Des Moines Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Safe

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Travelers should be aware of local laws regarding alcohol consumption and smoking in public places.

Crime Rates

Des Moines has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major cities in the United States. However, like any city, there are areas where crime is more prevalent.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities in Des Moines are of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available. There are no significant health risks specific to the area.

Natural Disasters

Des Moines is susceptible to severe weather, including tornadoes and thunderstorms, particularly in the spring and summer months.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement presence is strong in Des Moines, with the Des Moines Police Department actively patrolling the city and responding to incidents promptly.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Des Moines is generally safe. The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) operates buses that are well-maintained and monitored.

Solo Travelers

Des Moines is generally safe for solo travelers, but standard precautions should be taken.

Recent Developments

There have been no significant recent developments impacting safety in Des Moines. The city continues to focus on community policing and crime prevention strategies.

No data Found...

No data Found...

Top trips icon

Des Moines Monthly Weather Overview

Summary

arrow down icon

Average High


Average Low


Humidity


Rainy Days


Sunny Days


Wind Speed


Daylight Hours


Sunrise


Sunset


Pattern

Best season to visit

arrow down icon

Current Conditions ():

Top trips icon

Best Time to Visit Des Moines

Summary: The best time to visit Des Moines is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when temperatures range from 10°C to 21°C (50°F to 70°F), and numerous festivals color the calendar.

❄️

January

Cold and snowy, with temperatures between -18°F to 34°F (8°C to 1°C). Ideal for winter activities at local parks.

💘

February

Similar to January, February sees cold weather. A quieter time for visiting indoor attractions.

🌱

March

The temperatures begin to rise slightly, ranging from -28°F to 48°F (2°C to 9°C).

🌸

April

Best

Enjoy spring blooms and mild temperatures from 41°F to 61°F (5°C to 16°C), with many festivals starting.

🌷

May

Best

Mild weather persists, with temperatures between 52°F to 70°F (11°C to 21°C), perfect for outdoor explorations.

☀️

June

Best

A great time for outdoor events and activities, with temperatures between 61°F to 81°F (16°C to 27°C).

🏖️

July

Warm and often humid, with temperatures ranging 67°F to 86°F (19°C to 30°C).

🌞

August

Continues similar to July, with various fairs and festivals ongoing.

🍂

September

Best

Temperatures start cooling to 57°F to 77°F (14°C to 25°C), offering beautiful fall foliage.

🍁

October

Best

Experience autumn colors and moderate temperatures, ranging from 45°F to 63°F (7°C to 17°C).

November

Chilly temperatures between 32°F to 48°F (0°C to 9°C) herald the onset of winter.

🎄

December

Cold and festive, with holiday events and temperatures from -21°F to 37°F (6°C to 3°C).

Top trips icon

Seasonal Events in Des Moines

August 8-18, 2024

Iowa State Fair

One of the country's biggest state fairs featuring concerts, contests, and fair food.

Iowa State Fair
June 28-30, 2024

Des Moines Arts Festival

An annual festival showcasing visual and performing arts in Western Gateway Park.

Des Moines Arts Festival
September 13-15, 2024

World Food & Music Festival

A culinary celebration in Downtown Des Moines with international foods and music.

Downtown Des Moines
November 16-17, 2024

Winter Farmers Market

A seasonal extension of the popular Farmers Market offering local produce and crafts.

Downtown Des Moines
Top trips icon

Popular Foods in Des Moines

Iowa Tenderloin

A large deep-fried pork tenderloin sandwich, a Midwest staple.

Corn Dogs

A popular fair food made of hotdogs coated in cornmeal batter and deep-fried.

Maid-Rite

A seasoned loose meat sandwich served on a steamed bun, iconic to Iowa.

Scotcharoos

A dessert bar made with Rice Krispies, peanut butter, chocolate, and butterscotch.

Sweet Corn

Iowa produces luscious sweet corn, especially enjoyed grilled in summer.

Top trips icon

Closest Airports to Des Moines

Regional Airport

Top trips icon

Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO)

Waterloo Regional Airport provides flights within the Midwest. It offers basic amenities like Wi-Fi and parking. Accessible via major roads.

Approximately 2 hours and 115 miles from Des Moines via US-20 W and I-35 N.

Check flight schedules in advance. Consider renting a car for flexibility.

ALO Website

International Airport

Top trips icon

Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

Des Moines International Airport offers nonstop flights to major U.S. cities. It features dining, shopping, and free Wi-Fi. The terminal is accessible with close parking options.

Approximately 10-15 minutes and 5 miles from downtown Des Moines via Fleur Drive.

Utilize mobile check-in to save time. Ride share services are convenient for airport transit.

DSM Website

Top trips icon

Popular Trip Types

Family Vacation Icon

Family Vacation

Des Moines is a fantastic spot for a family vacation with attractions like the Adventureland Park, the Blank Park Zoo, and Science Center of Iowa. Additionally, there are family-friendly accommodations and numerous parks and outdoor spaces for recreational activities.

Cultural Exploration Icon

Cultural Exploration

Des Moines offers a rich cultural experience with its vibrant art scene including the Des Moines Art Center, the striking Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and historical attractions such as the State Historical Museum of Iowa, all of which provide a deep dive into art and history.

Couples Retreat Icon

Couples Retreat

For couples seeking a romantic getaway, Des Moines provides a charming setting with scenic walks at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, intimate dining options in the East Village, and luxurious stays at boutique hotels for a private and relaxing experience.

Girls Shopping Weekend Icon

Girls Shopping Weekend

Des Moines is ideal for a shopping weekend with friends, offering shopping districts like Jordan Creek Town Center, Valley Junction for unique boutiques and antiques, and local artisan markets to discover unique Iowa-made products.

Outdoor Adventure

For lovers of the outdoors, Des Moines offers numerous options such as hiking and biking along the Des Moines River Trail, water activities at Saylorville Lake, and exploring nature at one of the many city parks, ensuring a fulfilling and active retreat.

Top trips icon

Custom Language

Pop

Soda

Commonly used to refer to soft drinks.

Ope

Oops

A Midwestern expression used when bumping into someone or making a mistake.

Hawkeye State

Iowa

Nickname for Iowa, reflecting pride in the state and its university teams.

Ope Just Gonna Sneak Past Ya

Excuse Me

Polite way of navigating crowded spaces.

Farm Strong

Hardworking

Refers to the resilient work ethic associated with farming communities.

Top trips icon

Popular Sports & Teams in Des Moines

Iowa Cubs

The Iowa Cubs are a minor league baseball team based in Des Moines and are the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs.

Iowa Cubs Official Website

Des Moines Menace

The Des Moines Menace is a soccer team that plays in USL League Two and is known for its competitive play and strong community support.

Des Moines Menace Official Website

Iowa Wild

The Iowa Wild is a professional ice hockey team in the American Hockey League (AHL) and serves as the primary developmental team for the NHL's Minnesota Wild.

Iowa Wild Official Website

Drake Bulldogs

The Drake Bulldogs represent Drake University in NCAA Division I sports, with the men's basketball team being particularly prominent.

Drake Athletics

Des Moines Buccaneers

The Des Moines Buccaneers are a Tier I junior ice hockey team in the United States Hockey League (USHL), known for their passionate fan base.

Des Moines Buccaneers Official Website

Top trips icon

Unique customs/traditions

Iowa Nice

A cultural ethos reflecting friendliness and helpfulness towards others.

State Fair Butter Sculptures

Intricate sculptures made from butter displayed during the state fair.

RAGBRAI

An annual seven-day bike ride across Iowa embracing local hospitality.

Cornhole Competitions

A common outdoor game played at gatherings and fairs.

County Fairs

Tradition-rich celebrations with livestock shows and carnival rides.

Top trips icon

Recommended Activities by Group Type

Living History Farms

Living History Farms

Outdoor (Half-day)

Families can step back in time and experience life on a 19th-century farm, which is educational and entertaining for all ages.

Iowa State Fairgrounds

Iowa State Fair

Entertainment (Full-day)

This annual fair features rides, games, food vendors, and live entertainment that cater to family fun and bonding.

Des Moines Art Center

The Des Moines Art Center

Museum (1-2 hours)

The art center offers family-friendly exhibits and workshops, encouraging creativity and appreciation for the arts.

Jester Park

Jester Park

Outdoor (2-4 hours)

With its playgrounds, picnic areas, and nature trails, this park is perfect for families to relax and enjoy outdoor activities together.

Science Center of Iowa

Discoveries in the Dark

Museum (2-3 hours)

Engaging and educational, this immersive experience invites families to explore science in a fun way, making learning enjoyable.

Ticket to travel

Pass along this location with your friends!

Our journey partners

Viator Logo
Google Logo
TripAdvisor Logo
BBB Logo
IATA Logo
Duffel Logo
AWS Logo
footer_linear_gradiant_image

Copyright © 2025 Trip Tap Inc | All Rights Reserved