West Des Moines
Looking for a charming and vibrant city to explore? Look no further than West Des Moines, Iowa. Located in the heart of the state, this bustling city offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or shopping, West Des Moines has something to offer. Begin your journey by exploring the city’s rich history. From its humble beginnings as a small farming community to its current status as a thriving city, West Des Moines has a fascinating story to tell.
Visit the Jordan House, a historic home built in the 1800s that now serves as a museum, to learn more about the city’s early days. Then, take a stroll through the Valley Junction Historic District, where you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in historic buildings.
With so much to see and do, you’ll soon discover why West Des Moines is a must-visit destination.
Exploring West Des Moines’ History
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and discover the rich history of this charming city. West Des Moines has a fascinating history that dates back to the mid-1800s when the area was first settled by pioneers.
The first permanent settlers arrived in 1846, and the city was officially incorporated in 1893. The city’s name comes from its location to the west of Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa.
In the early years, West Des Moines was primarily a farming community, with agriculture being the main economic activity. However, with the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, the city began to develop rapidly, and new businesses started to emerge.
Today, West Des Moines is a thriving city with a rich history that’s worth exploring. From the historic Valley Junction district to the Jordan House Museum, there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the city’s past and how it’s evolved over time.
Dining Options in West Des Moines
Looking for some great dining options in the area? Check out what’s available in this section!
West Des Moines has a plethora of options to satisfy every craving, from casual to upscale dining experiences. If you’re looking for a quick bite, stop by Blaze Pizza or Chick-fil-A for fast and delicious options.
Or, if you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal, check out Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse or 801 Steak and Chop House for a more upscale dining experience. If you’re looking for something unique, head to Fong’s Pizza for their famous Crab Rangoon pizza or try out the sushi at Wasabi Tao.
For a more casual experience, grab a burger and beer at the Twisted Vine Brewery or a sandwich at Palmer’s Deli and Market. No matter what your taste buds are craving, West Des Moines has something for everyone.
Outdoor Activities for All Ages
Get ready to explore the great outdoors with a variety of activities for all ages, from hiking and biking to playgrounds and picnics.
The city of West Des Moines offers plenty of options to enjoy nature and stay active. You can start by visiting the Raccoon River Park, which is a 630-acre park with a lake, beach, trails, and picnic areas.
The lake is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The beach is a great spot to relax and enjoy the sun, and the trails are perfect for hiking or biking. The park also has a playground, a dog park, and an amphitheater where you can watch concerts and events during the summer.
Another great outdoor spot is the Valley View Aquatic Center, which is a waterpark with water slides, a lazy river, and a large pool. The waterpark is perfect for families with kids, and it’s a great way to cool off during hot summer days.
If you’re looking for a more challenging activity, you can visit the Clive Greenbelt Trail, which is a 11-mile trail that connects several parks and neighborhoods. The trail is perfect for hiking, running, or biking, and it offers beautiful views of the city and nature.
No matter what your age or fitness level is, West Des Moines has plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained and active.
Family-Friendly Attractions
There are plenty of family-friendly attractions in the West Des Moines area that offer fun and exciting experiences for all ages.
One of the most popular is the Valley View Aquatic Center, which features a large outdoor pool, waterslides, a lazy river, and even a sand volleyball court. The center also offers swim lessons and fitness classes, making it a great place for families to spend the day together.
Another must-visit attraction is the Science Center of Iowa. It offers hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that explore science, technology, engineering, and math. Kids will love the chance to explore the human body, learn about outer space, and experiment with different scientific concepts.
There’s also a planetarium and an IMAX theater that showcase the wonders of the universe in a fun and engaging way. With so many exciting things to see and do, the Science Center of Iowa is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Shopping in West Des Moines
If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, you’ll love exploring the shopping options in this vibrant city. West Des Moines has a wide range of shopping destinations that cater to different tastes and preferences. From high-end stores to budget-friendly options, you’ll find everything you need here.
One of the must-visit shopping spots in West Des Moines is Jordan Creek Town Center. This expansive mall has over 150 stores, including popular brands like Nordstrom, Apple, and Sephora. You can spend hours browsing through the different stores and grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the food court.
Another popular shopping destination is Valley West Mall, which has a mix of department stores, specialty shops, and eateries. With its convenient location and ample parking, Valley West Mall is a great place to shop for everything from clothing to home decor.
Conclusion
So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to West Des Moines and experience all that this vibrant city has to offer!
With its rich history, diverse dining options, and countless outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to spend quality time with your family, explore the great outdoors, or indulge in some retail therapy, West Des Moines has got you covered.
So, pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories in this beautiful Iowa gem!
