How to Spend 48 Hours in Des Moines

Do: Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Start with a relaxing stroll through the downtown’s iconic Pappajohn Sculpture Park. It’s one of the city’s most photographed locations due to its stunning collection of sculptures, many created by world-renowned artists. See each piece from the paved walkway or get up close and dial into the audio tour on each artwork’s plaque. The park is open dawn to dusk and free to visit.
 

Do: Easter Lake Park

Extend your time outdoors with a visit to the south side’s Easter Lake Park. As one of the country’s most accessible parks, it offers opportunities for outdoor fun for all abilities. Enjoy a peaceful stroll or bike ride (a bike share station is located near the beach) along the four-mile loop trail, go fishing anywhere along the shore or at the accessible fishing dock, and take a refreshing dip at the beach, which also offers standard and adaptive kayak and canoe rentals to get out on the water.
 

Eat: Lua Brewing

When you’re hungry, head to Lua Brewing in Des Moines’ Historic Sherman Hill district to refuel. Recognized as one of the top 50 breweries in the world and one of the area’s best restaurants, Lua’s flavors will wow your tastebuds. Each of their brews is carefully poured and perfectly pairs with their appetizers, burgers, wraps, sandwiches and desserts.
 

Stay: Surety Hotel

When the sun sets, retreat to the Surety Hotel to enjoy a night of luxurious comfort. Located inside a former Savings & Loan building, it merges the best of historic charm and modern elegances. Each room boasts remarkable views of the downtown and is pet friendly. If you’re not ready call it a night, stop by the hotel’s onsite tavern for a nightcap or relax on the courtyard patio.

Eat: Drake Diner

Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast from the Drake Diner. Another famous Des Moines gem, this upscale retro diner has been serving breakfast favorites since 1987. Grab a booth to enjoy made-to-order omelets, pancakes and waffles, any egg combination, smoothies and a breakfast banana split, plus homemade pies and cinnamon rolls.
 

Do: Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Then, enjoy a peaceful stroll through the stunning Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. This vibrant 12-acre public garden boasts impressive indoor and outdoor gardens that celebrate beautiful and sustainable horticulture year-round. Outside, you can admire a diverse collection of gardens, tree-canopied promenades, a reflection pool and fountain, a half-acre water garden and boardwalk and more. Then head inside to the geodesic-domed conservatory to be immersed in the balmy atmosphere of the tropics.
 

Do: Shop in the Historic East Village

Spend the rest of your afternoon exploring the Historic East Village’s collection of historical architecture, shops and restaurants. Park the car and enjoy a short walk to the stunning Iowa State Capitol building, then go on a shopping spree. Discover your next treasure at Reclaimed and Porch Light Antiques; find the perfect gift at Raygun and peruse card, stationery and art at The Permanent Collection Letterpress and Ephemera Stationery. If you need a break, stop by Up Down to sip on local brews while testing your skills at classic arcade games.
 

Eat: Lucca & Cinnaholic

Drop all your finds off at the car, then had back into the East Village for an elevated lunch at Lucca. This classic Italian eatery features a lunch menu packed with handmade pastas, sandwiches, salads and soups.
 

For dessert, head across the street for a rich treat at Cinnaholic. This gourmet cinnamon roll shop features a massive menu of freshly baked organic creations. Select from over 20 unique frosting flavors and decadent toppings to customize your own dessert, or try the edible cookie dough, made-from-scratch brownies and cookies.