Welcome to Des Moines, the capital of Iowa — a city that quietly punches far above its weight. At first glance, Des Moines may feel like a classic Midwestern capital: a golden dome rising above downtown, brick warehouses near the river, and tree-lined neighborhoods stretching westward. But as you’ll discover over the next couple of hours, this city has played an outsized role in politics, finance, agriculture, culture, and even global food security. Every four years, presidential candidates crisscross these streets during the Iowa caucuses, turning local diners and university halls into national headlines. At the same time, major insurance and financial firms manage billions of dollars from offices just blocks away. And along the river, a once-industrial corridor has been transformed into parks, public art, and vibrant gathering spaces. On this self-guided driving tour, we’ll explore Des Moines from multiple angles — its historic Capitol grounds, lively Court Avenue District, cultural landmarks like the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, elegant neighborhoods, and institutions that shape both local life and global conversations. For the best experience, please follow the route as it appears on the map. Some streets can be busy, especially downtown, so take your time, slow down when needed, and enjoy the drive safely. Now, settle in, keep your eyes on the road, and let’s begin discovering Des Moines.
Explore Des Moines with self-guided GPS audio tours designed to help you discover famous landmarks, hidden gems, and local stories at your own pace. With our tour app, enjoy guided walking tours, driving routes, and biking experiences that turn your phone into a personal travel guide. Whether it’s your first visit to Des Moines or a return trip, self-guided city tours make self travel easy, flexible, and unforgettable.
