Des Moines is a living museum where the future of Iowa is on exhibit today. The State Capitol Building, with its golden dome, radiates the state's more than 170 years of history. In addition to the downtown stores and historical sites, the Salisbury House and Gardens and the Hoyt Sherman Theater also showcase the city's rich cultural legacy.

Catching a baseball game played under the lights is another popular nighttime activity in Des Moines. The Larger Des Moines Botanical Garden has seasonal blooms, and the Science Center of Iowa makes science accessible to all ages.

If you're looking for Des Moines' hippest 'hood, East Village is where it's at. Use our guide to the best sights in Des Moines to plan your trip.

State Fair of Iowa

The Iowa State Fair is held in August each year, and it would be a shame to miss it if you were planning a trip to Des Moines. You may still participate in fair-related activities even if you can't make it to the State Fair itself, thanks to the Fair Tour, which takes place around the region in the weeks and months preceding the fair. Nothing is missing from the fair itself. Guests may enjoy the parade, live performances by famous musicians, livestock and agricultural displays and concerts, amusement attractions, delicious food, and much more! There will be a little entry cost for the main acts, but you can anticipate a lot more for the free stuff.

Botanic Garden of Greater Des Moines

The stock market crash of 1929 scuttled plans to build the Greater Des Moines Botanical Center, which had been in the works since the previous spring. Officially opening to the public in December 1979, the first 25 years of the botanical center's existence were overseen by the Parks and Recreation Department. The Des Moines Botanical and Environmental Center has been under the management of the Des Moines Water Works since January 2004. There are three indoor gardens and eleven outdoor gardens with a wide variety of plants, and they are open daily (except on holidays).

The Park of Sculpture Honoring John and Mary Pappajohn

The 4.4-acre Sculpture Park was opened in September 2009 and featured the work of 22 well-known artists. The Pappajohn family, who donated 28 works of art to the park, is widely recognized as the inspiration behind the park's name and the primary reason so many people chose to walk into Downtown Des Moines through the park. The Des Moines Art Center received a record-breaking donation of artwork with this gift. The park is open from sunrise to midnight every day of the year, and between April and October, visitors may arrange for a guided tour of the sculptures and park.

Blank Park Zoo

Blank Park Zoo is a popular destination for groups with kids of all ages, open daily from 10 am to 4 pm (EST) from October to April and from 9 am to 5 pm (EST) the rest of the year. Ostriches, rhinos, bald eagles, penguins and even Amur tigers are just a few of the animals in the zoo. There are seasonal ostrich, giraffe and parakeet feedings and a Kid Kingdom designed to engage and educate young guests.

The Salisbury House & Garden

Des Moines is home to various fascinating historical attractions, including the beautiful Salisbury House & Gardens. The house was built starting in 1923 and cost around $1.5 million, including furnishings. There were 42 rooms in this home when it was first completed, including 17 bedrooms and 16 baths. The imported English oak floors and paneling are from the 16th century, and the collection of about 10,000 items of antiquities hails from throughout the world. In 2005, work began to restore the structure, and by the fall of that year, it had opened to the public, providing a window into the past.

Adventureland Park

Des Moines' Adventureland Park is a must-see for any family visiting the city. This amusement park has more than a hundred rides, shows, and other attractions. There are some of the most thrilling roller coasters in the country here, and tamer rides for those who want something a little less intense. Kids may enjoy a variety of rides specifically designed for them, as well as some exciting water attractions. Watch a magic show, listen to live music, or discover a dance floor when your family needs a break from the thrills.