8 days in Des Moines Itinerary

Des Moines is the capital and the most populous city in the U.S. state of Iowa. Venture out of the city with trips to Room Escape Games (in Cedar Falls), Ames (Iowa State University & Reiman Gardens) and Lost Island Water Park (in Waterloo). There's much more to do: get in on the family fun at Adventureland, get a sense of history and politics at Capitol Building, steep yourself in history at John Wayne Birthplace & Museum, and stroll around Pappajohn Sculpture Park.

To find traveler tips, reviews, photos, and more tourist information, you can read our Des Moines sightseeing planner.

In June, daytime highs in Des Moines are 84°F, while nighttime lows are 64°F.