Des Moines Overview

Des Moines is the capital of Iowa and the state’s largest city, located where the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers meet. It is the center of Iowa government, a major insurance and financial-services hub, and the core of a fast-growing metropolitan area. The city includes state offices, corporate headquarters, historic neighborhoods, riverfront districts, universities, hospitals, parks, and entertainment venues. Its central location makes it a practical base for statewide business, politics, conventions, and regional travel.

Economy

The Des Moines economy is especially strong in insurance, banking, retirement services, state government, health care, publishing, professional services, logistics, and technology. Major employers include public agencies, hospitals, financial institutions, insurers, universities, and regional service companies. Downtown Des Moines has office towers, hotels, restaurants, and event venues, while nearby industrial and suburban corridors support warehousing, data operations, construction, retail, and manufacturing. The city also benefits from startup activity, entrepreneurial programs, and connections to Iowa’s broader agriculture and bioscience economy.

Education

Des Moines Public Schools serves a large and diverse student population, while surrounding districts and private schools expand educational options across the metro. Drake University is a prominent institution in the city, known for law, pharmacy, business, education, journalism, and the Drake Relays. Grand View University, Mercy College of Health Sciences, Des Moines University, and Des Moines Area Community College add programs in health care, liberal arts, sciences, workforce training, and professional fields. These institutions support the city’s hospitals, businesses, public agencies, and civic organizations.

Culture

Des Moines has a strong civic and cultural identity shaped by state government, neighborhood diversity, public art, live music, festivals, and food traditions. The East Village, Sherman Hill, Beaverdale, Drake, Highland Park, and other neighborhoods contribute distinct local character. The Iowa State Fair brings statewide attention every summer, while the Des Moines Arts Festival, farmers market, performing arts events, and minor-league sports keep the calendar active. Museums, galleries, theaters, breweries, libraries, and community events make the city a cultural hub for Central Iowa.

Travel and Entertainment

Popular Des Moines attractions include the Iowa State Capitol, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, Blank Park Zoo, Principal Park, Hoyt Sherman Place, the Science Center of Iowa, and the Wells Fargo Arena area. Downtown offers restaurants, nightlife, hotels, and convention facilities, while Gray’s Lake, Water Works Park, and regional trails provide outdoor recreation. Visitors can also attend the Drake Relays, Iowa Wild hockey, Iowa Cubs baseball, concerts, festivals, and seasonal events throughout the metro area.