Des Moines Weekend Guide: Sculpture Park, East Village & the Best Market in Iowa

Des Moines is the most underrated short trip from Omaha. Two hours east on I-80, it has a walkable downtown, one of the best free sculpture parks in the country, and a Saturday farmers market that feels like a regional event. Here's how to do it in a weekend.

Friday evening: East Village check-in and dinner

Stay downtown or in the East Village so you can walk to dinner. Fong's Pizza is the loud, fun introduction to the city — crab rangoon pizza and tiki drinks in a historic building. For something quieter, Django in the Court District is the date-night move.

Saturday morning: the farmers market

The Des Moines Farmers Market takes over the Historic Court District from 7 AM to noon on Saturdays, May through October. Go before 9 for the best selection and fewer crowds. Build breakfast from bakery stalls, then walk it off toward the river.

Saturday afternoon: Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Free, open daily, and genuinely world-class. The 28 sculptures sit in the Western Gateway with downtown as a backdrop. Plan an hour to wander, then sit on the grass and decide where to eat next.

Saturday evening: dinner and a walk

Centro does wood-fired pizza in a converted downtown building — reliable for groups. Zombie Burger is the fun, over-the-top option. After dinner, walk the Western Gateway or the East Village; both are lit well and safe after dark.

Sunday: capitol, gardens, then home

The Iowa State Capitol is one of the most beautiful in the country, and free tours run regularly. If you have kids or need a rainy-day backup, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a short walk from the East Village. Otherwise, one more coffee and a slow drive back to Omaha.

Getting there and around

Des Moines International Airport is 15 minutes from downtown. From Omaha, it's an easy two-hour drive on I-80. Once you're downtown, park the car and walk — the core is flat and compact.