Des Moines Zip Code Map
Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, is a vibrant and charming destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an adventure seeker, or a nature lover, you’ll find plenty of attractions and activities to explore. To help you plan your trip, we’ve created a comprehensive travel guide that covers the top things to do in each zip code.
Zip Code 50309: Downtown Des Moines
If you’re looking for a lively urban experience, zip code 50309 in downtown Des Moines is the place to be. Here are some of the top attractions and activities:
Top Attractions:
- Des Moines Art Center
- Iowa State Capitol
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Science Center of Iowa
Hidden Gems:
- The Republic on Grand rooftop bar
- Raygun souvenir shop
- Java Joe’s Coffee House
- The Basement arcade and bar
Food Scene:
Downtown Des Moines is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants and bars to choose from. Here are some of the top picks:
- Malo for Mexican cuisine
- Fong’s Pizza for Chinese-inspired pizza
- Alba for European-style dishes
- The Continental Lounge for craft cocktails and small plates
Budget-Friendly Tips:
If you’re traveling on a budget, here are some tips to save money in downtown Des Moines:
- Visit the free Des Moines Art Center
- Take a self-guided walking tour of the city’s architecture
- Grab a slice of pizza at Fong’s for a cheap and tasty meal
- Check out the farmers market for fresh and affordable produce
Outdoor Adventures:
Despite being a city, downtown Des Moines offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Here are some of the top activities:
- Bike or walk along the Des Moines Riverwalk
- Take a paddleboat ride on Gray’s Lake
- Visit the Brenton Arboretum for a nature walk
- Attend a summer concert or festival in the parks
Historical Landmarks:
Des Moines has a rich history, and downtown is home to many important landmarks and sites. Here are some of the must-see attractions:
- Iowa State Capitol building
- World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
- Salisbury House and Gardens
- Historic East Village neighborhood
Family-Friendly Activities:
If you’re traveling with kids, downtown Des Moines has plenty of fun and educational activities that the whole family will enjoy. Here are some of the top picks:
- Science Center of Iowa
- Blank Park Zoo
- Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
- Des Moines Public Library
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
If you’re looking for something unique and unexpected, here are some off-the-beaten-path experiences to try in downtown Des Moines:
- Visit the Des Moines Social Club for art and music events
- Take a ghost tour of the city’s haunted sites
- Attend a roller derby match with the Des Moines Derby Dames
- Explore the underground tunnels beneath the city
Natural Wonders:
Despite being a city, Des Moines is surrounded by beautiful natural areas. Here are some of the top spots to discover:
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Des Moines Water Works Park
- Pleasant Hill Park and Lake
- Brown’s Woods Forest Preserve
Vibrant Nightlife:
Downtown Des Moines has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Here are some of the top spots:
- The Lift for craft cocktails
- Up-Down arcade bar
- El Bait Shop for beer lovers
- The Garden Nightclub for dancing and drag shows
Local Markets:
If you’re looking for locally made goods and fresh produce, check out these markets in downtown Des Moines:
- Des Moines Farmers Market
- The Market at Valley Junction
- East Village Farmers Market
- Des Moines Downtown Farmers Market
Beaches and Mountains:
While there aren’t any beaches or mountains in Des Moines itself, there are plenty of nearby destinations to explore:
- Lake Red Rock for beach activities
- Pikes Peak State Park for hiking and scenic views
- Maquoketa Caves State Park for spelunking
- Saylorville Lake for boating and fishing
Cultural Immersion:
To get a taste of the local culture in Des Moines, check out these museums and cultural institutions:
- Iowa State Historical Museum
- Salisbury House and Gardens
- World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
- Des Moines Art Center
Art and Music Scene:
Des Moines has a thriving art and music community, with many venues and events to explore. Here are some of the top picks:
- Des Moines Social Club for art and music events
- Wooly’s for live music shows
- Val Air Ballroom for dancing and concerts
- Des Moines Symphony for classical music performances
Walking Tours:
To get a sense of the city’s history and architecture, take a guided or self-guided walking tour in downtown Des Moines. Some options include:
- Downtown Des Moines Walking Tour
- Historic East Village Walking Tour
- Des Moines Architecture Tour
- Des Moines Ghost Tour
Architectural Marvels:
Des Moines has many beautiful and unique buildings to admire. Here are some of the top architectural marvels in downtown:
- Iowa State Capitol building
- World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
- Salisbury House and Gardens
- Des Moines Central Library
Historical Sites:
Des Moines has a rich history, and many important sites and landmarks have been preserved. Here are some of the top historical sites to visit:
- Iowa State Capitol building
- Iowa Historical Museum
- Living History Farms
- Drake University campus
Biking Routes:
Des Moines is a bike-friendly city, with many trails and routes to explore. Here are some of the top biking routes in downtown:
- Des Moines Riverwalk
- Gray’s Lake Park trail
- High Trestle Trail
- Bill Riley Trail
Wellness Retreats:
If you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate, Des Moines has plenty of wellness retreats and spas to choose from. Here are some of the top picks:
- East Village Spa for massages and facials
- Maharishi Ayurveda Health Center for holistic treatments
- Spa at West Glen for luxury spa services
- YogaSix for yoga classes and workshops
Adventure Sports:
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Des Moines has plenty of adventure sports to try. Here are some of the top picks:
- Zip line at Sleepy Hollow Sports Park
- Rock climb at Climb Iowa
- Kayak or paddleboard on Gray’s Lake
- Mountain bike at Banner