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Des Moines Destinations

The "S" in Des Moines may be silent, but our city's local events have lots to say for themselves. As one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the Midwest, Des Moines draws in people from near and far to experience its slew of special events. No matter how long you've lived here, or how new you are to the area, there are endless Des Moines destinations just waiting to be discovered. 

Keep scrolling to dive into Des Moines' event calendar, and in the meantime, you can check out some of the area's most sought-after neighborhoods

Upcoming Events

Skate South Saturday All Day Skating

Now - May 25, 2024

1:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Whisk your weekend into an exhilarating blur at Skate South! Lace up your skates and glide into a realm of fun where laughter echoes and memories skate in circles. Every Saturday, the rink becomes a canvas for your joy from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Glide into the heart of Des Moines for a timeless skate session that's perfect for families, friends, and even special celebrations.

Skate South, 10494 County Line Road, Des Moines, IA 50320

2024 Winter Blues Fest

Fri Feb 09, 2024 at 05:00 pm to Sat Feb 10 2024 at 11:45 pm

Dive into the deep blue notes of the Winter Blues Fest, where rhythms rock and spirits soar. For two soul-stirring nights in February, Des Moines becomes the crossroads of melodies and memories. Experience an electrifying line-up from the Ben Levin Duo to Toronzo Cannon, as they strum the strings of the night.

Des Moines Marriott Downtown, 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309

Iowa Spring Home Expo

March 8th - 10th, 2024

Discover the ultimate home improvement destination at the Iowa Home Expo! Join us from March 8th to 10th, 2024, at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, Jacobson Building in Des Moines. Meet local and national remodeling experts, explore the latest trends in home improvement, and get inspired with new ideas for your space. Whether you're a homeowner or a business owner, this event is a must-attend for all things home-related!

Iowa State Fairgrounds, Jacobson Building

Des Moines Career Fair

March 20th, 2024

09:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Get ready for an incredible event in Des Moines - the Des Moines Career Fair! It's not your ordinary job fair; it's a chance to connect with top employers in a wide range of industries. From Government to Sales, Retail to IT, Engineering to Healthcare, and more, this fair has it all. Dress your best, bring your updated resume, and get ready to make meaningful connections.

Marriott, Street, Des Moines, United States

World Ballet Series: Swan Lake

March 21st, 2024

07:00 pm to 09:00 pm

Prepare to be enchanted by the timeless classic, Swan Lake! As part of the World Ballet Series, this legendary ballet will grace the stage for one unforgettable night on March 21, 2024. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Tchaikovsky's music, witness the iconic Dance of the Little Swans, and marvel at the 32 fouettés performed by the mesmerizing Odile.

Stephens Auditorium, 1900 Center Dr, Ames, IA 50011

Our Favorite Year-Round Events

Science Center of Iowa/Blank IMAX Dome Theater Year-round

Open all year, the Science Center of Iowa (SCI) allows you to learn about science in an engaging and entertaining way. Catch the interactive exhibits and live science demonstrations while you learn all about scientific phenomena, from astronomy to dry ice.

401 W Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway | Des Moines, IA 50309

Blank Park Zoo Year-Round

Blank Park Zoo hosts a series of events throughout the year. Join us for DISCOVER the WILD Days, held monthly from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, to learn about our conservation efforts and how we care for our animals. Additionally, don't miss our fun-filled Halloween events like Halloween Zoo Brew, a spooky evening for adults, and Night Eyes, a merry family-friendly tradition featuring light displays, treats, and more. Become a Zoo Member to access exclusive events year-round. Join us in supporting wildlife conservation and enjoying exciting zoo experiences!

7401 SW 9th Street | Des Moines, IA 50315

Des Moines Civic Center Year-round

Spend a night with your loved ones at the theatre! Watch local and touring crews perform a hit musical, or buy a ticket to a stand-up comedian's show when you need a laugh. Des Moines Civic Center is there for you with masterpieces of art, whatever you need, whenever you need them.

221 Walnut Street | Des Moines, IA 50309

Wells Fargo Arena at Iowa Events Center Year-round

If you're tired of watching a game from your couch, head down to the Wells Fargo Arena to catch it live! Whether you're more interested in watching the local high school's wrestling championships or the collegiate basketball team's home competitions, you'll find it at the Arena. Unobstructed sights, no commercials, and seating that might replace your chair as your favorite furniture are only some of the benefits of attending.

730 3rd Street | Des Moines, IA 50309

Tours at Hoyt Sherman Place Year-round

Built in 1923, this theater is part of the Des Moines historic district. Boasting elegant banquet, meeting, and theater areas, Hoyt Sherman Place offers tours, is open for special events, and allows bookings for corporate meeting rooms. Book a day now and experience history in the 21st century.

Historic Sherman Hill, 1501 Woodland Avenue | Des Moines, IA 50309

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Year-round

Feast your eyes on seven acres of vibrant blooming buds, all from 10 distinct gardens. Enjoy an afternoon in the rose garden, or explore the iconic conservatory, home to tropical and desert plants! Stop by the Trellis Café for brunch and then visit the Gardeners Show House to get inspiration for growing your own plants!

909 Robert D. Ray Drive | Des Moines, IA 50309

Some Highlights of Des Moines

Art Appreciation

When you spend the day in Des Moines, make sure to set your sights on some of the city's artistic attractions. Dripping with diversity, the Des Moines arts scene features everything from performing arts stages to sprawling art routes. 

Festivals

There's no better way to celebrate a city's culture than with a fun-filled festival. Think of Des Moines festivals as networking events—ones where you get to know your neighbors in the midst of good food, music, and most importantly, company! 

Outdoor Adventures

When the weather forecast calls for sunshine in Des Moines, there's no doubt you'll find our residents out and about. With more than 150 miles of water passages, there's always a lake or river to be explored in the area. And if you prefer dry land adventures, there are tons of trails to embark on, too!  

Shopping & Dining

Do you consider yourself a foodie? Or maybe more of a shopaholic? Either way, you'll fit right in throughout Des Moines' shopping and dining districts. Des Moines has enough dining options to devote an entire day to eating (hey, we won't judge you). But if you want to break up your meals, there's a lengthy shopping list of must-visit stores in Des Moines.  

Find Your Fun in Des Moines

Ready to Dive into Des Moines?

If you're thinking of buying a home in or relocating to the Des Moines area, then it's time to contact VIA Group Realtors! We want to help you explore the area, discover its fun and unique communities, and find the perfect home for your personalized needs!