The Iowa State Fairgrounds was originally the Charles Thornton Farmstead and has been the home of the rewnoned Iowa State Fair since 1886. Spread across 435 acres (176.03 hectares), these sprawling grounds also have historic buildings and are registered on the National Register of Historic Places. These include structures like the primary house and barn, the 1902 Livestock Pavilion, and the 1904 Agriculture Building. Around half of the open space is used for the annual fair and the remaining is enjoyed as a campground. The entire area is divided into departments, which host concerts, flea markets, livestock exhibitions, and antiques, auto, and trade shows. If you're in Des Moines during the Iowa State Fair, put it at the top of your to-do list.
Built in the early 1900s by the Weeks family, the Salisbury House in Des Moines is an excellent locus of history and culture. Modeled on the King's House based in Salisbury, this courtly edifice is further augmented by rolling, viridescent lawns dotted with an array of blooming flowers and trees. Enlisted on the National Register of Historic Places, this stately manor is awash in the finer nuances of Gothic, Tudor and Carolean architecture. Sprawling across 22,000 square feet (2000 square meters), the house lovingly harbors an array of opulent, lavishly furnished rooms, each of which boasts exquisite architecture coupled with majestic interiors. Hidden in the recesses of the house is a stunning collective of rare antiques, books, and valuable artifacts that chronicle the legacy of the Weeks family. A magnificent canopy of history and beauty, the Salisbury House is a priceless possession of Iowa.
Wooly's is one of the best places in town to catch a live concert. Its name is a wink to the Woolworth Store that once occupied the building, however it is now equipped with state-of-the-art light and sound technology. This all-genre space is known to host indie-rock artists and singer-songwriters regularly. Only cash is accepted if you are buying tickets from their box office.
Embracing the mission of providing only the highest quality scientific exploration through interactive educational programs and exhibits, the Science Center of Iowa has emerged as a leading learning center in Iowa. Everything at the Science Center of Iowa inculcates a sense of curiosity within each of its visitors, be it related to physical science, space technology, or anything in between. Come explore this learning institution and let it satisfy your hunger for knowledge. To make a day of it, stop by the onsite planetarium and IMAX cinema.
Telling the story of Iowa's cultural and agricultural history, Living History Farms situated in the heart of Urbandale is an excellent open-air museum. The many buildings and barns here are built in a rustic style that was prevalent in Iowa during the past centuries to add to the overall setting. A visit to the Living History Farms is ought to be fun and educational at the same time.
Henry Wallace was an agricultural proponent in the 19th Century. The Wallace Centers of Iowa: Wallace House was the residence of this renowned agriculturist who was behind the founding of Wallace's Farmer and Iowa State University (formerly Iowa State College). Built in 1883 in the Italianate-Victorian style of architecture with a wrap-around porch and Ionic columns, this structure is among the oldest in the Sherman Hill Historic District. It was home to the Wallace family till 1940 after which it was turned into an apartment building. Now owned by The Wallace Centers of Iowa, it was restored as a house museum in 1988 following extensive renovations as per the actual photos taken by Josephine, Mr Wallace's daughter. Decked with period furniture donated by the Wallace family as well as mementos, its like walking through a different era. Get to know this family, how they impacted the agricultural reform and more through the various displays and programs. The museum is also available on rent for private events. Donations are accepted for self-guided tours. The lovely garden is open any time.
Henry Wallace was an agricultural proponent in the 19th Century. The Wallace Centers of Iowa: Wallace House was the residence of this renowned agriculturist who was behind the founding of Wallace's Farmer and Iowa State University (formerly Iowa State College). Built in 1883 in the Italianate-Victorian style of architecture with a wrap-around porch and Ionic columns, this structure is among the oldest in the Sherman Hill Historic District. It was home to the Wallace family till 1940 after which it was turned into an apartment building. Now owned by The Wallace Centers of Iowa, it was restored as a house museum in 1988 following extensive renovations as per the actual photos taken by Josephine, Mr Wallace's daughter. Decked with period furniture donated by the Wallace family as well as mementos, its like walking through a different era. Get to know this family, how they impacted the agricultural reform and more through the various displays and programs. The museum is also available on rent for private events. Donations are accepted for self-guided tours. The lovely garden is open any time.
Dr.Norman Borlaug has been often referred to as the "Father of the Green Revolution", for his outstanding efforts in agricultural development. The Nobel Peace Prize is a strong reminder of the results he achieved around the world with increased food production. The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates was a heritage public library that got converted into an exquisite monument. It houses not only Borlaug's achievements but the society works hard to sustain his lifework. Surrounded by colorful gardens and flanked by statues of Norman Borlaug and John Ruan, the hall is made of several ballrooms and galleries. Marble and gold lined columns with a large Rotunda is an arresting sight. All the rooms have been decorated with paintings and artworks to honor the World Food Laureates. Rich wooden walls and carpeted floors everywhere give out a quintessential British vibe. Experience this illustrious place with their guided tours or by renting it for your private events.
The 200-seat black box theater, Stoner Theater in the Des Mones Civic Center offers patrons an intimate experience of the comedy, improv and theatrical performances that take place here.
Housed in a century-old building, Noce is one of the best clubs for cabaret and jazz. Its industrial-chic design replete with old and new elements features musical instruments as decorative objects. This state-of-the-art venue equipped with great acoustics is where you can enjoy live performances by talented musicians and cabaret artistes. Enjoy delightful drinks and tasty snacks as you listen to some soulful music.