he history of Des Moines begins in 1843 with Captain James Allen, who supervised the construction of a fort at the confluence of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers. The government used Fort Des Moines to control the Meskwaki and Sauk tribes it had moved to the region from eastern Iowa. However, in 1846, the government shifted the tribes to the Indian Territory and abandoned the fort. Non-Native Americans occupied the abandoned fort, and on May 25, 1846, the Iowa state legislature designated Fort Des Moines as the seat of Polk County. The fort emerged as a town due to the settlements, although the Flood of 1851 destroyed a significant portion. The city continued to thrive despite the challenges. The state incorporated Fort Des Moines as a city in 1851, and voters approved the charter. In 1857, the name was shortened to “Des Moines,” and it became the second state capital. The area experienced slow growth during the Civil War, but its size exploded after a railroad link in 1866. The Des Moines Coal Company was also a significant driver of change in the region. While Des Moines has suffered challenges such as the Great Flood of 1993, it continued to thrive in architecture, transportation, and other infrastructure. The population increased, and economic developments made Des Moines a significant city in the Midwest.

Enjoying art, culture, and history is one of the many things you should do in Des Moines. Start by visiting the Des Moines Art Center, one of the best tourist attractions in Iowa. You will see art exhibits, sculptures, and modern and contemporary art. Visit the State Historical Museum and learn about the city and the state’s rich history.

You should enjoy the performing arts and live music concerts throughout the city and revive your creative spirit. The Simon Estes Riverfront Amphitheater, an outdoor concert venue on the banks of the Des Moines River, is a primary destination for many residents and visitors. The venue hosts music events, including the Alive Concert Series. Live performances are among the most entertaining things in the city.

Visit the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, featuring an indoor conservatory of more than 15,000 exotic plants. It is one of the largest collections of subtropical, tropical, and desert-growing plants in the Midwest. Enjoy nature by exploring thousands of flowers that bloom every year, or visit Blank Park Zoo, a zoological park offering tours and educational classes.