Rotary Riverwalk Park: A Downtown Oasis
A playful downtown park on the Des Moines Riverwalk, perfect for a quick escape and scenic views.
Rotary Riverwalk Park, nestled along the Des Moines River, offers a tranquil escape in the heart of downtown Des Moines. This small park features a playground with a unique climbing structure, swings, and access to the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge.
A brief summary to Rotary Riverwalk Park
- 821 W River Dr, Des Moines, Downtown Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, US
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the day to climb on the bobber statue and enjoy the swings.
- Take a walk across the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge for views of the river and Asian Gardens.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the adjacent Lauridsen Skatepark.
Getting There
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Walking
From the heart of downtown Des Moines, such as the Des Moines Public Library, head east towards the Des Moines River. Cross the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge. Rotary Riverwalk Park is located at the west end of the bridge.
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Public Transport
The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) provides bus service throughout Des Moines. Several DART routes serve downtown Des Moines, with connections to DART Central Station. From DART Central Station, walk east towards the river and the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge. Check the DART website for specific routes and schedules. A single ride fare is $1.75.
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Parking
Several parking options are available in downtown Des Moines. Metered street parking is available, with rates typically ranging from $0.25 to $1.25 per hour. Several parking garages are also located nearby, with hourly rates around $1 and daily maximums around $10. Free parking is available after 5 PM and on weekends in the Polk County Administration and Election Office Lots near Court Avenue. Be aware that parking can be limited during events.
Discover more about Rotary Riverwalk Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Des Moines Building
0.7 km
Experience urban living at The Des Moines Building, where comfort meets convenience in the heart of Downtown Des Moines.
Court District
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Discover the unique community spirit and vibrant culture of the Court District in downtown Des Moines, where art and non-profit initiatives thrive.
State Historical Society of Iowa
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Polk County Historic Courthouse
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Saint Paul's Episcopal Cathedral
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Temple Theater
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Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker
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Civil War Mortar
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Senator William B. Allison Memorial
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Bates Park Historic District
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S-36 Submarine Memorial
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Unmissable attractions to see
Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
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Robert D. Ray Asian Garden
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Des Moines Historic District
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Augmented Reality Mural -interactive- on Northern-most half pike
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World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
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Des Moines Civic Center
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Cowles Commons
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Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
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The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction
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East Village Mural
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Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market
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Des Moines Sky Walks
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State Historical Building
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Des Moines Heritage Trust / East Union Depot
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Science Center of Iowa
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Essential places to dine
Buzzard Billy’s
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Clyde's Fine Diner
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Splash Seafood Bar & Grill
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Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
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Scopri Restaurant
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Open Sesame
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Ceviche Bar
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Lucca
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Bar Nico
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Fong's Pizza
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Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
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The Iowa Taproom
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Alba Restaurant
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Olympic Flame Restaurant
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The Continental
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Chapter 2 Jewelry, Apparel, and Accessories
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KIN
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MARNe
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Janes - Family Shop
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May Eleven
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She Home & Gift
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Aimee
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Fontenelle Supply Co.
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Porch Light
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Goldeneye Curations
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East Village Emporium
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True Style
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Domestica
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The Plaza Shoppe
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Vzz Vintage
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bellhop
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Black Sheep
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Nightingale Cocktail
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the LiFT
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85 Bar
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Ken's - a not so secret speakeasy
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Locust Tap
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Alleged Lee's
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Tonic Court Ave.
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The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar
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The Copper Cup
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Shorty's Somewhat Fancy Bar
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Pints Bar Rooftop - PBR Country
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503 Cocktail Lab and Tasting Room
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Beechwood Lounge
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