Downtown Des Moines: The Heartbeat of Iowa's Capital

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nuh]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
• Thank youThanks
  [th-anks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?How's it going?
  [hows it go-ing]
• Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [good. yoo]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-lish]
• I don't understandI'm lost
  [im lost]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [ken eye see the men-yoo]
• I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [im ve-ji-tear-ee-an]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCheck please
  [chek pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
• Call the Police!Call the Cops!
  [call the cops]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a dock]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [im lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [im sik]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [i wanna buy]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brows-ing]
• How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
• That's too expensiveThat's pricy
  [thats pricy]
• Can you lower the price?Any discounts?
  [any dis-counts]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thur-tee]
• MorningMorning
  [mor-ning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [even-ing]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [ate]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whats the add-ee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can you show me (on the map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to)]

Downtown Des Moines was originally established in 1843 as Fort Des Moines, a military outpost. The fort was built to protect settlers and serve as a trading post for local Indigenous tribes and European settlers. The area was selected for its strategic location near the confluence of the Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers, which fostered trade and transportation.

By the late 19th century, Downtown Des Moines emerged as a significant commercial hub. The arrival of the railroad in the 1850s spurred economic growth, leading to the establishment of warehouses, factories, and retail stores. This period saw the construction of iconic buildings, such as the Hall of the States in 1883, which reflected the architectural styles of the time and served as a center for business activities.

The early 20th century marked a cultural renaissance for Downtown Des Moines, with the establishment of theaters, galleries, and music venues. The Des Moines Community Playhouse, founded in 1919, became a prominent institution for the performing arts, while the 1931 opening of the Des Moines Art Center highlighted the city's commitment to culture and the arts, showcasing works by renowned artists.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Downtown Des Moines faced economic challenges, prompting a series of revitalization efforts. The city undertook initiatives to restore historic buildings and improve public spaces, leading to the opening of the Court Avenue District, which became a vibrant entertainment area featuring restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

Today, Downtown Des Moines is a dynamic urban center that reflects cultural diversity and innovation. The area hosts a variety of festivals, including the Iowa State Fair and the Des Moines Arts Festival, celebrating the region's artistic heritage. Recent developments, such as the new skyscrapers and public art installations, continue to shape the neighborhood's identity, making it a focal point for residents and visitors alike.

Downtown Des Moines is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Des Moines via various transportation options. If you are arriving from the airport, the Des Moines International Airport is approximately 5 miles from Downtown. You can take a taxi, rideshare, or airport shuttle service, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. For those traveling within Des Moines, the DART bus system provides convenient routes to Downtown from various neighborhoods. Additionally, the downtown area is well-connected to major highways, making it easy to drive in.

Downtown Des Moines is pedestrian-friendly, making walking an excellent way to explore the area. The DART public transit system offers bus services that run frequently throughout the downtown area, providing easy access to attractions. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bicycle from one of the bike-sharing stations available in Downtown. Rideshare services are also widely available for quick trips around town.

Downtown Des Moines is generally a safe area for tourists; however, standard safety precautions should still be observed. It is wise to stay alert, especially in crowded places. Areas to be cautious of include certain neighborhoods on the outskirts of Downtown, particularly at night. Always avoid poorly lit streets and keep your belongings secure. It’s advisable to use well-trafficked routes and to travel in groups when possible.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The local hospitals are equipped to handle emergencies, with Broadlawns Medical Center and MercyOne Medical Center being the nearest facilities. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-urgent health issues, there are several pharmacies in Downtown where you can find over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Don't wear overly casual attire when dining at upscale restaurants. Religion: Do be respectful at religious sites, such as the Cathedral of St. Ambrose, and follow any posted guidelines. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to the elderly or those in need. Don't talk loudly or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and a simple 'Hello.' Don't interrupt conversations when approaching someone. Eating & Drinking: Do try local favorites like Maid-Rites and various craft beers. Don't waste food or leave a mess in public areas.

To experience Downtown Des Moines like a local, visit the Farmers' Market held every Saturday morning, where you can find fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with local artists and musicians often found in the East Village area. For a unique dining experience, explore the food trucks that frequently gather at various locations downtown. Don’t miss the chance to check out local events at the Iowa Events Center or the Des Moines Art Center, which often showcase local talent and culture.