West Des Moines: A Blend of History and Modernity
Discover West Des Moines: Where history meets modern attractions, from Valley Junction's charm to Jordan Creek's shopping and Raccoon River Park's nature.
West Des Moines, Iowa, offers a mix of historical charm and contemporary attractions. From its roots as a railway junction to its modern shopping centers and cultural venues, the city provides a diverse experience for visitors.
A brief summary to West Des Moines Iowa
- 828 12th St, West Des Moines, Iowa, 50265, US
Local tips
- Explore Historic Valley Junction for unique shops, art galleries, and local restaurants.
- Visit Jordan House to learn about its role in the Underground Railroad.
- Enjoy outdoor activities at Raccoon River Park and Walnut Woods State Park.
- Check out the Val Air Ballroom for concerts and events in a historic setting.
- Shop at Jordan Creek Town Center for a wide variety of retail options.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown Des Moines, the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) provides bus service to West Des Moines. Several routes connect the two cities, with buses departing from DART Central Station. A single ride costs $1.75. Reduced fares are available for eligible riders. Check the DART website for specific routes and schedules.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Des Moines and West Des Moines. A typical ride from downtown Des Moines to West Des Moines costs between $17 and $21. UberX and Lyft Standard are common options, with UberX often slightly cheaper. Prices may vary depending on demand and time of day.
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Driving
West Des Moines is accessible via Interstates 35, 80, and 235. From downtown Des Moines, take I-235 West to reach West Des Moines. Parking options vary, with some areas offering metered parking and others having parking garages. Metered parking costs vary, and parking garages like those near the Iowa Events Center may charge around $13 per car. Check local signage for specific parking regulations.
Discover more about West Des Moines Iowa
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
West Des Moines Iowa
0.0 km
Discover West Des Moines: Where history meets modern attractions, from Valley Junction's charm to Jordan Creek's shopping and Raccoon River Park's nature.
Cobblestone Marketplace
4.1 km
Experience local culture at Urbandale's Cobblestone Marketplace, offering unique shops, diverse dining, and vibrant community events.
El Barco Méxican Restaurant
4.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors and a vibrant atmosphere at El Barco in Urbandale, IA. Fresh ingredients, generous portions, and friendly service await!
1908 Draught House
4.5 km
West Des Moines' top spot for sports, beer, and good times. Catch the game with friends and enjoy a wide selection of brews and tasty food.
St Andrews Apartments
4.7 km
Discover the charm of Urbandale, Iowa, at St Andrews Apartments, your cozy home away from home for short-term stays.
Holiday Illahee Hills
4.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and community at Holiday Illahee Hills, a premier retirement destination in Urbandale, Iowa.
Hidalgo Mexican Bar and Grill
5.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine in Urbandale, IA, with flavorful dishes, refreshing drinks, and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere at Hidalgo Mexican Bar and Grill.
Blue Shark Ale House
5.1 km
Urbandale's prime sports bar with a wide beer selection and tasty food, perfect for game nights and family outings.
Spice Pot - Breads & Biryani
5.1 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors at Spice Pot - Breads & Biryani in Urbandale, IA, offering a diverse menu of biryanis, breads, and classic dishes.
Color Works Tattoo
5.1 km
Urbandale's top-rated tattoo studio offering custom designs, a welcoming atmosphere, and award-winning artists dedicated to bringing your vision to life.
Palmer's Deli & Market
5.1 km
A Des Moines metro staple since 1989, Palmer's Deli offers handcrafted sandwiches, fresh salads, and homemade soups in a casual setting.
Middlesex Plat Historic District
5.1 km
Explore the Middlesex Plat Historic District in Des Moines, Iowa, where history, architecture, and culture intertwine to create a memorable travel experience.
Coaches Kolaches
5.2 km
Bringing a taste of Texas to Urbandale, Iowa, with authentic and innovative kolaches baked fresh daily.
Witmer House
5.2 km
Discover the rich history and unique antiques at the Witmer House, a must-visit historical landmark in Des Moines, Iowa.
Walker Johnston Tennis Courts
5.2 km
Enjoy a game of tennis at Walker Johnston Park's well-maintained courts, a community favorite in Urbandale, Iowa, offering free access and a vibrant atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jordan House
2.7 km
Explore the rich history of West Des Moines at the captivating Jordan House Museum, where the past comes alive through interactive exhibits and engaging tours.
Des Moines Children's Museum
3.0 km
Explore the Des Moines Children's Museum for a fun-filled, educational adventure that inspires creativity and curiosity in every child.
Raccoon River Park
3.1 km
Explore the beauty of nature at Raccoon River Park, a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and families in West Des Moines.
Greenwood - Ashworth Park
3.2 km
Explore the enchanting Greenwood - Ashworth Park in Des Moines, Iowa, a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and family-friendly fun.
Clare and Miles Mills Rose Garden
3.2 km
Discover over 200 rose varieties in a serene Des Moines garden, a vibrant and fragrant escape within Greenwood Park.
Des Moines Art Center
3.2 km
Explore world-class art and architecture at the Des Moines Art Center, a cultural hub with free admission and stunning collections.
Salisbury House & Gardens
4.0 km
Explore the exquisite Salisbury House & Gardens, a cultural treasure in Des Moines, Iowa, blending historic architecture with stunning gardens.
Des Moines Water Works Park
4.4 km
Explore 1,500 acres of natural beauty, recreation, and community events at Des Moines Water Works Park, an urban oasis in Des Moines.
Brown's Woods
4.7 km
Discover Iowa's largest urban forest in West Des Moines: Hike scenic trails, observe wildlife, and escape into nature at Brown's Woods.
Walnut Woods State Park
4.8 km
Discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities at Walnut Woods State Park, a tranquil oasis in West Des Moines, Iowa.
Jackaline Baldwin Dunlap Park and Arboretum
5.1 km
Discover a serene urban retreat in Urbandale, Iowa, with walking paths, diverse flora, and peaceful gardens at this unique park and arboretum.
Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park and Garden
5.1 km
Discover a peaceful retreat in Urbandale, Iowa, with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a serene atmosphere at Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park and Garden.
Breakout Games - Des Moines
5.2 km
Experience thrill and teamwork at Breakout Games - Des Moines, where escape room adventures await for families, friends, and corporate groups.
Get Air Trampoline Park
5.3 km
Experience high-flying fun for all ages at Urbandale's premier trampoline park, featuring trampolines, foam pits, and exciting attractions!
Walker Johnston Park
5.5 km
Explore Urbandale's Walker Johnston Park: Playgrounds, sports, trails, and a tranquil pond await in this expansive recreational haven.
Essential places to dine
Maxie's Supper Club
0.2 km
Experience the best of family-friendly dining at Maxie's Supper Club in West Des Moines – where delicious meals meet warm hospitality.
Gilroy's Kitchen + Pub + Patio
0.9 km
Discover the flavors of America at Gilroy's Kitchen + Pub + Patio - where comfort food meets lively atmosphere in West Des Moines.
Grand Junction Bar & Grill
1.3 km
Experience delicious American cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Grand Junction Bar & Grill in West Des Moines.
St. Kilda Collective
1.3 km
Explore St. Kilda Collective: A vibrant restaurant blending artisanal flavors with community spirit in West Des Moines.
Paula's Cafe
1.3 km
Experience delightful comfort food at Paula's Cafe in West Des Moines' historic Valley Junction - where every meal feels like home.
Cooper's on 5th
1.4 km
Experience delectable American cuisine and craft cocktails at Cooper's on 5th in West Des Moines' charming Valley Junction.
Heavenly Asian Cuisine & Lounge
1.4 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Heavenly Asian Cuisine & Lounge in West Des Moines—where every dish tells a story.
The Hall DSM
1.5 km
Discover The Hall DSM: A vibrant beer hall in West Des Moines with delicious pizza and a lively atmosphere perfect for gatherings.
Chuck Celsi's Tavern Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience mouthwatering pizzas and vibrant nightlife at Chuck Celsi's Tavern Restaurant in West Des Moines.
G Mig's 5th Street Pub
1.5 km
Experience the best of Valley Junction at G Mig's 5th Street Pub - where great food meets lively atmosphere in West Des Moines.
Eggs and Jam
1.6 km
Discover delicious brunch at Eggs and Jam in West Des Moines – where breakfast favorites meet culinary creativity.
Fiesta Mexican Restaurant
1.9 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Fiesta Mexican Restaurant in West Des Moines - where every meal feels like a celebration.
Jethro's BBQ 'n Bacon Bacon
2.0 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue and unique bacon-infused dishes at Jethro's BBQ 'n Bacon Bacon in West Des Moines.
Mi Patria Ecuadorian Restaurant
2.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of Ecuador at Mi Patria Restaurant in West Des Moines - where tradition meets taste.
Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que
2.3 km
Experience authentic Southern-style barbecue at Famous Dave's in West Des Moines – where flavor meets tradition in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hinge
1.3 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds at Hinge, a charming boutique in Valley Junction, West Des Moines, offering local craftsmanship and a delightful shopping experience.
Iowa Made Market
1.4 km
Explore Iowa Made Market for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of Iowa in every piece.
Happy DSM
1.4 km
Explore Happy DSM, a charming gift shop in West Des Moines, offering unique local crafts and souvenirs that celebrate Iowa's vibrant culture.
Judy K's
1.4 km
Explore Judy K's Gift Shop for unique handmade treasures and local art in the heart of Valley Junction, West Des Moines, IA.
The Spice & Tea Exchange of West Des Moines
1.4 km
Discover a world of exotic flavors at The Spice & Tea Exchange of West Des Moines, where spices and teas inspire culinary creativity.
Memory Lane
1.5 km
Discover unique vintage treasures at Memory Lane, a charming antique store in West Des Moines, perfect for history lovers and collectors.
Heart of Iowa Market Place
1.5 km
Explore the Heart of Iowa Market Place for unique gifts, gourmet groceries, and local treasures in the charming Valley Junction of West Des Moines.
Bing's
1.5 km
Discover Bing's in Valley Junction for an eclectic mix of gifts, games, and garden decor that captures the spirit of West Des Moines.
Sisters
1.5 km
Explore Sisters Boutique in Valley Junction for unique apparel, jewelry, and gifts that embody local artistry and creativity.
MoMere
1.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at MoMere, West Des Moines' charming gift shop in Valley Junction.
A Okay Antiques
1.6 km
Discover unique treasures and vintage finds at A Okay Antiques in West Des Moines, a must-visit for all antique lovers and history enthusiasts.
MintL.A. Boutique
1.6 km
Discover unique women's fashion at MintL.A. Boutique in Valley Junction, a must-visit shopping destination for trendy styles.
The Vinyl Studio
1.6 km
Explore The Vinyl Studio, where fashion meets music in a boutique experience you won't forget!
Atomic Garage Valley Junction
1.6 km
Explore Atomic Garage Valley Junction for a unique blend of vintage clothing and costumes in a lively shopping atmosphere.
Cindy's Boutique in Valley Junction
1.6 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Cindy's Boutique in Valley Junction, where style meets local charm in the heart of Iowa.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cattoors On Grand
0.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cattoors On Grand, a karaoke bar in West Des Moines where unforgettable nights and great company await.
Ladder 13
0.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious offerings at Ladder 13, West Des Moines' favorite bar for fun and relaxation.
Sully's Irish Pub
1.3 km
Sully's Irish Pub: A lively Irish bar in West Des Moines offering delicious food, a vast drink selection, and vibrant live entertainment.
Champions Hideaway
1.4 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Champions Hideaway, a cozy bar in Valley Junction with a welcoming atmosphere and delightful drinks.
Winchester Public House
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance and exquisite cocktails at Winchester Public House in Valley Junction, a must-visit cocktail bar for all travelers.
The Keg Stand
3.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of The Keg Stand, a premier bar in West Des Moines, offering a wide selection of drinks and tasty pub fare.
The Ridgemont
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse drink selection at The Ridgemont, Windsor Heights' favorite local bar for relaxation and socializing.
Tapz Pub
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tapz Pub in Clive, IA, where delicious grill favorites and refreshing drinks meet camaraderie.
Down Under Bar & Grill
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled delights at Down Under Bar & Grill in Clive, Iowa, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Kathy's Irish Pub
3.8 km
Discover the charm of Ireland at Kathy's Irish Pub in Des Moines, where hearty meals and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
The Flying Moose
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Flying Moose, a top bar in Clive, Iowa, featuring cocktails, karaoke, and a lively atmosphere.
Denny Arthur's
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Denny Arthur's - Urbandale's favorite bar and dance club, where the 80s come alive with energetic dance floors and themed nights.
Groucho's Lounge
4.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Groucho's Lounge in Urbandale, Iowa, where delicious food, drinks, and sports come together for unforgettable nights.
Bradley's Inc
4.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and extensive drink selection at Bradley's Inc, the heart of nightlife in West Des Moines, Iowa.
Smoking Goat Pub
4.9 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Smoking Goat Pub in Des Moines, Iowa, where great food and drinks await in a welcoming setting.
