Calling all green thumbs to the Des Moines Botanical Center. Meander through the rows of colorful miniature rose bushes, orchids and delicate bonsai trees. Learn tips about how to make a garden grow, sprout your own fragrant herbs and start your very own terrarium.
Nature's largest collection of flowering crab apple trees grow at Water Works Park located in Des Moines. The beautiful 1,500-acre park is skirted by the Raccoon River and besides apples, sports big outdoor activities like biking, jogging, and hiking and picnicking. Naturally, nature lovers love it here!
Art connoisseurs flock to the Des Moines Art Center to appreciate world-renowned artworks on permanent display from artists such as Henri Matisse, Claude Monet, Andy Warhol and Georgia O'Keeffe. Enjoy an art museum dedicated to engaging local and international audiences through prominent paintings, sculptures, modern art and mixed media.
Where's the beef? It's at the Iowa State Fair, also home to the famous annual Butter Cow Sculptures tradition. You'll be attending the official state fair where the state shows off its agriculture might. For 11 days, there is a corral full of indoor and outdoor exhibits, rides, craft shows, musical acts and wild attractions.