Court Avenue District
P.O.Box 93742
Historic District
Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 244-7211
In the heart of downtown, you will find this district has a lot to offer. Saturdays from May through October, a vibrant farmers market comes alive with a wide variety of choice and quality goods. Fine restaurants and many retail shops make it a wonderful place to stroll. When the lights go down, another Des Moines comes alive in this area. Here you will find a variety of musical entertainment, theater and dancing.

Des Moines Symphony
221 Walnut Street
Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 243-1140
Housed in the Civic Center, the Des Moines Symphony is always engaged. The season brings seven pairs of classical concerts, family concerts, a three concert pop series, an annual Yankee Doodle Pops concert and the annual July 3rd concert. Taking its experience into the educational realm, the symphony presents many in-school ensemble performances. More Info

Science Center of Iowa
4500 Grand Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50312
(515) 274-4138
This excellent science center hosts a great permanent collection and many special events throughout the year including live demonstrations and education programs. The Center also features a planetarium complete with laser shows as well as the Challenger learning center with an immersive shuttle simulator.

Blank Park Zoo
7401 SW 9th Street
Des Moines, IA
Plan a trip to this Zoo on your visit. Animals from five different continents roam through magnificently landscaped habitats. These simulated habitats feature natural exhibits where visitors can observe over 800 different species. For children of all ages, there is also a petting area. A gift shop and snack bar complete the Zoo's attractions. More Info

Des Moines Metro Opera
106 W. Boston Ave
Indianola, IA 50125
(515) 961-6221
From its beginnings in 1972, this Opera is proof that the Midwest is hungry for Opera. Sophisticated audiences welcome a diverse selection of contemporary and classic opera. The impressively high subscriber rate assures the Opera a year round operation and has helped it gain worldwide recognition.

Birthplace of John Wayne
224 S. 2nd Street,
Winterset, IA
(515)462-1044
While in Des Moines, you should check out the birthplace of an American Icon, John Wayne. See where life began for this world famous star. The four-roomed home built in 1880 has been brought back to its appearance of 1907. Here you can reminise on the 'Duke's' life by viewing the memorabilia and photographs.

Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino
1 Prairie Meadows Drive,
Des Moines, IA
(exit 142 off I-80)
Tel: (515) 967-1000
(800) 325 9015
For a change of pace and a little fun-filled action, enjoy a day or evening at the racetrack and casino.