Des Moines is the capital city of Iowa, a state found in the American Midwest. Des Moines Iowa was named after the Des Moines River, which was adapted from the French Riviere Des Moines, meaning "River of the Monks." It is hypothesized that the river, and in turn, the city, got its name in reference to the Trappist monks who once lived at the mouth of the river. However, the true origin of this city's unusual name is unknown. It is an unknown part of Iowa history.

Present-day Des Moines is a booming city. This city is the largest in Iowa, with a large part of its economy based on the insurance industry. Though, insurance is not what brings thousands of tourists to this large city; tourists come for the many Des Moines events and attractions. Things to do in Des Moines range from museums and performing arts shows, to amusement parks and sports events. Des Moines attractions are many, and this city offers something for every traveler.

Des Moines Iowa prides itself on its cultural events and organizations, and the city has the infrastructure to host it all. The Civic City of Greater Des Moines is a popular place for visitors and residents, as it plays host to a number of Iowa attractions such as Broadway musical performances and an array of other performances. Live theatre and comedy events are usually hosted at The Temple for Performing Arts or the Des Moines Playhouse. The Funny Bone Comedy Club is also a popular place for comedian shows in the city. Des Moines is also home an active orchestra, symphony, and ballet company, each of which have performances throughout the year.

Iowa Map

The lively music scene offers lots of things to do in Des Moines. The city is host to two large venues, Wells Fargo Arena, which is the largest, and the Simon Estes Riverfront Amphitheatre. Each of these have many large concerts throughout the year. If the local music scene is preferred, Des Moines has many smaller venues that host local and regional bands mostly every weekend. Many of the popular Des Moines events even center around music. Such events include Jazz in July, which is a month-long jazz festival with live concerts held throughout the city.

One of the most popular family Des Moines attractions is Adventureland Park, which is actually located in the Des Moines suburb of Altoona Iowa. Adventureland Park is an amusement park that is the largest in the state. It has over one hundred shows, rides, and attractions. Located next door to the park is Adventureland Inn, one of the most popular family resorts in Iowa.

Sports also brings lots of tourist to Iowa, as sports are some of the biggest events in Iowa. Des Moines Iowa is host to several sporting teams. Such teams include baseball's Iowa Cubs, hockey's Iowa Chops and Des Moines Buccaneers, soccer's Des Moines Menaces, and basketball's Iowa Energy. The venues for these sports include the Wells Fargo Arena and the Buccaneers Arena.

Des Moines events are plentiful throughout the year. The many Des Moines attractions pull people to the area from all across the country. This bustling city has lots of opportunities for fun for any traveler. It is a great vacation destination in the Midwest.