Trip to Des Moines
Top 5 things to do on a Des Moines trip
- Check out the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
- Visit Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- See the Blank Park Zoo
- Go to the State Historical Museum of Iowa
- Explore the Science Center of Iowa
If you’ve never been to Des Moines, you owe yourself a proper adventure of exploring the history and culture it provides.
For the nature lovers and outdoorsmen, Des Moines is home to plenty of beautiful outdoor attractions such as the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and Pappajohn Sculpture Park.
In addition, numerous tours can help you navigate downtown and there are plenty of attractions, such as shopping in the Science Center of Iowa and Blank Park Zoo.
Throughout Des Moines you’ll be able to marvel at its historic architecture, shop and dine downtown, visit museums, and much more.
We’ll try to help simplify your Des Moines trip by providing some our favorite hotels, shops, and restaurants listed below!
Transportation options in Des Moines
Our bus to Des Moines brings you to the Eastbound Side of Cherry Street, between 7th and 8th Street.
A few of our most popular routes in Des Moines include:
Upon your arrival, getting around on your Des Moines trip will be a breeze.
The Des Moines Area Regional Transit or DART offers mass transit bus service throughout Des Moines.
Alternatively, taxis and ride shares are readily available as well.
Learn more about Megabus' top bus routes.
Best places to stay in Des Moines
After your long exhaustive day of sight-seeing, you’re going to need a place to crash. Des Moines is widely known for its amenities and extensive hotel accommodations.
There are plenty of hotels to choose from, making a Des Moines trip accessible for any traveler.
The most lavish hotels in Des Moines would be the Butler House or Des Moines Marriott Downtown, putting you in a central location to many of the city’s sights.
Alternatively, many hotels such as the Days Inn or Travelodge, or other rentals are available at a lower cost and offer plenty of travel options for your trip to Des Moines.
Nightlife in Des Moines
Known for a robust nightlife, you'll find plenty of clubs, restaurants, and bars to frequent in the Court District and East Village.
If you’re looking for a nightclub, look no further than Lime Lounge or the Garden.
Visit Cooper’s On 5th or High Life Lounge for a popular local pub and dive.
Check out Lefty's Live Music for a great music venue.
Where to shop on your Des Moines trip
Whether you’re seeking retail therapy or looking to represent your team, downtown Des Moines will be sure to meet your needs.
There will be no shortage of shopping options while you’re in the limits of Des Moines.
The East Village offers plenty of shops, boutiques, and restaurants to choose from.
Valley Junction is home to various craft fairs and storefronts as well.
In the Valley West Mall, you'll find plenty of retailers and luxury stores.
Best free things to do in Des Moines
- Iowa State Capitol
- Des Moines Art Center
- State Historical Museum of Iowa
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Iowa Hall of Pride
Even the most frugal of travelers will find something to love on their Des Moines trip.
Home to many lakes and parks, the outdoor attractions and public architecture are of no cost to you such as the Pappajohn Sculpture Park.
In addition, many of the Des Moines museums are free to the public, such as the State Historical Museum of Iowa.
You can even soak in the culture on your trip to Des Moines by walking through the East Village, where it often will be buzzing with activity.
Benefits of taking a bus trip to Des Moines
- reserved seating
- fares starting at just $1*
When booking a Des Moines trip, you’re looking for the lowest costs, trip flexibility, and the best means to arrive comfortably and safely.
Look no further, because Megabus offers the easiest and most affordable options for traveling to Des Moines, with fares as low as $1*.
With the money you save on bus tickets to Des Moines, you’ll be left with more to spend on your upcoming Des Moines trip.
Megabus serves more than 100 cities and university campuses across North America, allowing you to choose the bus stop nearest to you and select your flexible schedule for your Des Moines trip.
This will ensure that when you arrive, you can immediately begin exploring the beauty of Des Moines.
On your Des Moines trip, you’ll be offered the highest level of comfort and safety as well as amenities such as onboard restrooms, individual power outlets, three-point seatbelts, and reclining seats.
So if you’re planning on taking a Des Moines trip, book your ticket with us today to reserve your seat and see our first-class amenities firsthand.