Des Moines
Des Moines, Iowa’s capital city, offers a refreshing take on Midwest travel with a blend of creativity, history, and community pride. Its downtown skyline is anchored by the gold-domed Iowa State Capitol, which offers free guided tours and a striking view from its hilltop perch. Just across the river, the East Village mixes old brick storefronts with indie shops, coffee houses, and vibrant murals. It's where old meets new, a theme that runs throughout the city’s evolving identity.
Art plays a central role in Des Moines, both in galleries and out in the open. The Des Moines Art Center features works by Monet, Hopper, and Warhol and admission is always free. A short drive away, the Pappajohn Sculpture Park invites visitors to wander through 4.4 acres dotted with large-scale contemporary sculptures by world-renowned artists. For music fans, the 80/35 Festival brings live bands and crowds to downtown each summer, while the Des Moines Civic Center regularly hosts Broadway tours and local performances year-round.
Des Moines also knows how to throw a fair. The Iowa State Fair, held every August, is one of the largest and oldest in the country. Beyond the butter cow and deep-fried creativity, it hosts livestock shows, carnival rides, concerts, and quirky contests (like beard-growing and rubber chicken tossing). The fairgrounds turn into a city of their own for 11 days, drawing more than a million visitors from across the region.
Learn More About Des Moines
Iowa Artists 2026: Henry Payer
From 1/17/2026 - 6/17/2026
The 2026 edition of Iowa Artists welcomes Sioux City-born artist Henry Payer, a member of the Ho Chunk people, who will explore his Indigenous American history and identity through his signature mixed media works. The exhibition, Aagakink Haciwi: We Live Opposite Each Other, will feature a suite of collages combining historical archives with personal experience, and a new sculpture symbolizing the Ho Chunk's enduring search for a homeland, offering attendees a unique blend of Native traditions and Western popular culture.
Honey, You’re a Wonderful Model
From 2/14/2026 - 5/17/2026
Honey, You're a Wonderful Model is an immersive installation featuring the hand-drawn animated films of Austrian artist Maria Lassnig, filled with zany characters and slapstick humor that delve into the complexities of human relationships, sexuality, grief, and artistic creation. The event not only showcases Lassnig's unique animations but also includes her rarely seen drawings and paintings from the 1970s, providing a comprehensive look at her work as a pioneering and feminist artist.
Gaelic Storm
On 3/5/2026
Gaelic Storm is an Irish and Scottish band founded in Santa Monica, California, in 1996. They also major in Celtic rock genres. They appeared in the film, The Titanic, and recorded songs for the soundtrack of the movie. Their album, "Go Climb A Tree," was released on the July 28, 2017.
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
From 3/6/2026 - 3/22/2026
In the realm of theater adaptations, The Lightning Thief stands out as a captivating and magical journey for fans of Rick Riordan's beloved book series. This electrifying production brings the mythical world of Percy Jackson to life on stage, delivering an engaging, musically infused experience that will thrill both die-hard fans and newcomers to the story.
Felipe Esparza
On 3/6/2026
Felipe Esparza is an acclaimed actor and stand-up comedian. He started performing stand-up comedy in 1994. The Mexican-born comedian was born in 1970. He has been hosting his weekly podcast, What's Up Fool?, since 2014.
Red Hot Chilli Pipers
On 3/6/2026
The Red Hot Chilli Pipers are a Scottish Celtic rock band. They were formed in 2002 and gained international recognition in 2007 after winning the BBC talent competition "When Will I Be Famous?" Three highland bagpipers and a conventional marching snare drum are part of the band's lineup.
Gary Allan
On 3/7/2026
Gary Allan is a country music singer who has a gold-certified debut album “Used Heart for Sale” and multiple platinum albums including “Smoke Rings in the Dark.” Many of his singles reached the top 10 of US Billboard Hot Country Songs, such as “Watching Airplanes,” “The One,” and “Life Ain’t Always Beautiful.”
Steven Curtis Chapman
On 3/9/2026
Steven Curtis Chapman is a Grammy-winning Christian singer-songwriter known for his deeply inspirational lyrics and blend of pop, rock, and worship music. With a career spanning over three decades, he has written some of the most iconic songs in contemporary Christian music, such as Cinderella and Dive. His heartfelt music and dedication to faith-based storytelling have made him a beloved figure in the genre.
Jeff Tweedy
On 3/10/2026
Jeff Tweedy is a musician, songwriter, author, and record producer. He's best known as the singer and guitarist of his band Wilco whose 2004 studio album, A Ghost Is Born, won the Grammy for Best Alternative Album. His most popular singles as a solo artist include "Guess Again," "The Weight," and "Love Is The King."
Railroad Earth
On 3/11/2026
Railroad Earth has built their own tracks and veered off of the quintessential bluegrass path. Come dance and enjoy the unforgettable bluegrass sounds.
Tommy Castro
On 3/11/2026
Tommy Castro is a blues, R&B, and rock guitarist and singer from the United States. Since the mid-1990s, he has been recording. His music has taken him from small-town performances to national and international tours. His success was cemented when he was named Entertainer of the Year at the 2008 Blues Music Awards.
Toto
On 3/11/2026
Formed in 1977, Toto is a rock band based in Los Angeles that has sold more than 40 million records around the world. Known for blending elements of pop, funk, soul, R&B, blues and jazz, the band has earned several Grammy Awards with singles like "Rosanna" and albums like Toto IV.
Jurassic Quest
On 3/13/2026
Jurassic Quest is the largest and most realistic interactive dinosaur event in North America where lifesize moving museum-quality dinosaurs are exhibited. Guests can walk through the Cretaceous, Jurassic, and Triassic periods to feel what it was like to live with more than a hundred animatronic dinosaurs.
Wheatus
On 3/13/2026
Wheatus is best known for their cult hit "Teenage Dirtbag," delivering quirky alt-rock with a nostalgic twist. Their shows blend humor, charm, and early-2000s throwback appeal.
Two Feet
On 3/17/2026
Zachary William "Bill" Dess, better known by his stage name, Two Feet, is a New York City-based American singer, songwriter, and producer. Tenafly High School in Tenafly, New Jersey, is his alma mater. Before joining Two Feet, Dess played in local jazz and blues bands.
Charlie Parr
On 3/22/2026
Charlie Parr is a country blues artist from the U.S. He was born in Minnesota and spent most of his boyhood in Hollandale before moving to Duluth to pursue his musical career. Charlie Patton, Bukka White, Reverend Gary Davis, Dave Van Ronk, and Mississippi John Hurt are his inspirations.
Spring Arts and Crafts Show
From 3/13/2026 - 3/15/2026
The Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Show is the largest in Iowa, featuring over 250 exhibitors from 7 states showcasing and selling the Midwest's finest handcrafts. Attendees can expect a wide variety of products, including oak furniture, pottery, jewelry, clothing, floral wreaths, stained glass, food items, lawn and garden art, and much more, all spread out over 80,000 square feet of display space.
Des Moines St. Paddy's Half Marathon, 5K, and Marathon Run and Walk
On 3/14/2026
The Des Moines St. Paddy's Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K is a festive event that caters to runners of all levels. Attendees are encouraged to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #StPaddysRun, with all official information available on the event's website.
Heartland Comics and Collectables Show
On 3/14/2026
This event offers free admission to a treasure trove of vintage collectibles, including Pokémon trading cards, comics, toys, action figures, records, and video games. It's a paradise for collectors and enthusiasts who love to delve into the nostalgia of yesteryears.
Enchanted Valley
On 3/20/2026
This adults-only event offers a fun-filled painting class where attendees can create their own scented candle before the session begins. The venue provides a variety of beverages for purchase, including beer, wine, canned cocktails, champagne, and soft drinks, and ensures that groups booking separately can enjoy the experience together.
Cute Kitty
On 3/22/2026
This event offers an engaging scented candle-making class suitable for individuals aged 8 and up. Attendees can enjoy a variety of drinks from the studio bar, including beer, wine, canned cocktails, champagne, and soft drinks, while ensuring they're seated with their friends even when reservations are made separately.
Jim Breuer
On 3/23/2026
Jim Breuer is a standup comedian from New York who has also been a cast member on Saturday Night Live. As an actor, he starred in movies like “Half Baked” and appeared on TV shows like “Family Guy.” He has also hosted podcasts and radio shows such as “Fridays with Jim Breuer.”
The Music Man
From 3/20/2026 - 3/22/2026
Experience the classic musical sensation of The Music Man, a timeless story of upheaval, romance, and redemption. Revel in an endearing look at timeless Americana through the lens of wit and humor.
Daniel Tosh
On 3/25/2026
Daniel Tosh is an American comedian, TV host, writer, voice actor, and executive producer. After appearing on the Late Show with David Letterman in 2001, he starred in Comedy Central specials and hosted the series Tosh.0 for 12 years.
Complexions Contemporary Ballet
On 3/25/2026
Complexions Contemporary Ballet, led by dance icons Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson, is set to captivate audiences with its unique approach to reinventing dance and contemporary ballet. The program includes high-energy performances such as Retro Suite and For Crying Out Loud, showcasing the diversity and raw physicality of the company's stunning 16 dancers.
Church Basement Ladies
On 3/26/2026
Based on the 1997 book, Growing Up Lutheran by Suzann Nelson and Janet Letnes Martin, Church Basement Ladies is a musical comedy which premiered its debut production in 2009.
Marty Stuart
On 3/26/2026
The natural-born entertainer, Marty Stuart, is a country and bluegrass singer, songwriter, and musician from Philadelphia. With more than 30 charting singles on Billboard Hot Country Songs, he has won several Grammy Awards and a Golden Globe nomination.
Iowa Cubs vs. Columbus Clippers
On 3/27/2026
Baseball is packed with big hits, close plays, and the tension of every pitch. Nothing compares to the live experience — being there in person is way more exciting than watching on TV.
Jake Owen
On 3/27/2026
With his signature Southern charm and incredibly soulful lyrics, Jake Owen has built an incredible career that spans many years of amazing albums and chart-topping singles. Recently, he's been selling out shows across the US and gaining loyal followers who will no doubt love the new music he has in store.
Des Moines Comic and Toy Show
From 3/28/2026 - 3/29/2026
This free event promises a paradise for pop culture enthusiasts, with over 100 vendors and artists showcasing a wide array of collectibles. From Pokémon, Star Wars, GI Joe, and Transformers to Ghostbusters, Funko Pops, action figures, vinyl records, posters, and a plethora of comic books, there's something for every geeky heart to buy or sell.
Atlas Moth
On 3/28/2026
This adults-only event offers a unique opportunity to create a scented candle before settling down for a painting class, perfect for those looking to explore their artistic side. Attendees can enjoy a variety of beverages from the studio bar, including beer, wine, canned cocktails, and soft drinks, while painting alongside friends, with the assurance that any unforeseen changes or cancellations will be communicated in a timely manner.
Trisha Yearwood
On 3/13/2026
Trisha Yearwood is a Grammy-winning country music icon known for her powerhouse vocals and heartfelt storytelling. With classic hits like "She's in Love with the Boy" and "How Do I Live," she has been a leading voice in country music for decades.
Jessica Kirson
On 3/21/2026
Jessica Kirson is a high-energy stand-up comic known for her hilarious impressions, bold stage presence, and raw, honest takes on life. Her performances are fast-paced and wildly entertaining.
Whitney Cummings
On 3/28/2026
Whitney Cummings is an actress, comedian, filmmaker, and podcaster from Washington, DC. In addition to creating, producing, and starring in the NBC sitcom, Whitney, she also created the CBS sitcom, 2 Broke Girls, and has released comedy specials like Money Shot.