Attractions and Places To See around West Des Moines - Top 13
Best attractions and places to see around West Des Moines include a mix of historical landmarks, natural parks, and cultural sites. The area features significant historical buildings like the Jordan House, alongside expansive natural spaces such as Raccoon River Park and Brown's Woods. West Des Moines also offers diverse cultural experiences and points of interest, including revitalized districts and entertainment venues.
Best attractions and places to see around West Des Moines
- The most popular attractions is Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge, a bridge that spans the Des Moines River. This single-arch pedestrian bridge features two paths, one for cyclists and one for pedestrians, with a glass floor over the middle of the river.
- Another must-see spot is Neal Smith Trail, a 26-mile paved trail through Des Moines. It is traffic-free and follows the Des Moines River, offering a route through the city.
- Visitors also love Gray's Lake Park, a 166-acre park with a large lake at its center. A paved path surrounds the lake, including a bridge that can be illuminated at night.
- West Des Moines is known for its historical landmarks, expansive natural spaces, and cultural sites. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from urban forests to entertainment venues.
- The attractions around West Des Moines are appreciated by the komoot community, with 12 upvotes and 7 photos shared.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
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Each year beginning in 2013, notable women from Iowa’s history are honored at this bridge. Local citizens provide the nominations, which are then reviewed by a committee that selects the recipients. Selections include women who have made a positive impact on the lives of others, achieved extraordinary accomplishments, inspired future generations, and who have been agents of change for the betterment of the state of Iowa, our nation, or the world.
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Neal Smith Trail
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Brown's Woods
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Trestle to Trestle Trail
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Gray's Lake Park
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Tips from the Community
Brown's Woods, in West Des Moines, is the state's largest urban forest, encompassing 486 acres of mature oak and hickory trees. The area offers over 4 miles of moderate hiking trails, including the Gateway Trail (0.5 miles), Preparation Loop (0.5 miles), Wilderness Loop (1.4 miles), and North Loop (2 miles). These trails all traverse rolling hills and small streams in forested environment. The preserve also serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds during spring and fall, attracting species such as warblers and vireos, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. This is also a popular spot with foragers; visitors are permitted to collect nuts, fruits, or edible mushrooms for non-commercial use, provided the plants are not harmed. However, activities like removing plants, hunting, trapping animals, and cutting wood are prohibited. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a six-foot leash, and owners are reminded to clean up after their pets.
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The Trestle to Trestle Trail goes from Des Moines to Johnston. It is a fairly short trail at 3.7 miles long but it is a very good connector trail. It runs past some heavily wooded forests and the Des Moines River on the way so the scenery is great. It is also a good quality asphalt trail.
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Gray's Lake Park has a total size of 166-acres and is located in the heart of Des Moines. The lake of the same name is the park's main feature and is surrounded by a path for cycling and hiking. One of the highlights is the bridge that crosses the lake, as it can be illuminated in the evening and nighttime.
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Gray's Lake Park is a 166-acre park. The main feature of the park is the large lake, which give the park its name, and is located in the middle of the park. There is also a paved walking and biking path that goes around the lake and includes a bridge that crosses the water.
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Gray's Lake Park is a 166-acre park. Its main feature is the large lake in the center of the park. There is also a paved walking and biking path that goes around the lake and includes a bridge that crosses the water.
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The Neal Smith Trail is a 26-mile trail through Des Moines along the Des Moines River. It is fully paved and traffic free, so it is a great way to move through the heavily populated city.
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This iconic bridge spans the Des Moines River, linking the east and west sides of the city at the northern edge of the riverwalk loop. This single-arch pedestrian bridge features two paths crossing the Des Moines River, one for cyclists and one for pedestrians, with the walkway over the middle of the river having a glass floor. Each year beginning in 2013, notable women from Iowa’s history are honored at this bridge. Local citizens provide the nominations, which are then reviewed by a committee that selects the recipients. Selections include women who have made a positive impact on the lives of others, achieved extraordinary accomplishments, inspired future generations, and who have been agents of change for the betterment of the state of Iowa, our nation, or the world.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I visit in West Des Moines?
West Des Moines is rich in history. You can explore the Jordan House, a significant landmark from 1850 that served as a station on the Underground Railroad, offering guided tours. Another must-visit is Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge, which honors notable women from Iowa's history. Additionally, Historic Valley Junction, a revitalized railroad district, offers a glimpse into the past with its charming brick streets and historic architecture.
Where can I find natural parks and outdoor spaces in West Des Moines?
For natural beauty, Raccoon River Park is a vast 631-acre park featuring Blue Heron Lake for water activities and a 3.2-mile nature trail. Walnut Woods State Park offers dense forests and trails along the Raccoon River. Brown's Woods, Iowa's largest urban forest, provides over 4 miles of hiking trails. While technically in Des Moines, Gray's Lake Park is easily accessible and features a large lake with a paved path.
Are there good hiking trails in West Des Moines?
Yes, West Des Moines offers several hiking opportunities. Brown's Woods features over 4 miles of moderate hiking trails, including the Gateway, Preparation, Wilderness, and North Loops, traversing rolling hills and streams. Walnut Woods State Park also provides trails for hiking. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes listed in the Hiking around West Des Moines guide.
What are some popular cycling routes near West Des Moines attractions?
Cyclists will enjoy the Neal Smith Trail, a 26-mile paved, traffic-free route along the Des Moines River. The Trestle to Trestle Trail is a 3.7-mile asphalt connector trail with great scenery. Many other cycling routes are available, such as those around Gray's Lake Park. Discover more options in the Road Cycling Routes around West Des Moines guide.
Are there any dog-friendly parks or trails in the area?
Yes, Brown's Woods welcomes dogs on a six-foot leash, making it a great spot for a walk with your canine companion. Raccoon River Park also features a spacious dog park, providing an off-leash area for pets to play.
Are there wheelchair-accessible trails or attractions in West Des Moines?
Several attractions in the area are wheelchair-accessible. The Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge and the Neal Smith Trail are both designed with accessibility in mind. Gray's Lake Park also features a paved path around the lake that is wheelchair-friendly, including its illuminated bridge.
What family-friendly activities are available in West Des Moines?
Families can enjoy a variety of activities. Raccoon River Park offers a swimming beach, playground, and paddle sports on Blue Heron Lake. The Des Moines Children's Museum in Valley West Mall provides interactive exhibits. For entertainment, Spare Time West Des Moines has bowling, arcade games, and laser tag. Many local parks, like Quail Cove Park, also offer unique features for children.
Where can I go for shopping and entertainment in West Des Moines?
Jordan Creek Town Center is Iowa's largest shopping mall, with over 150 stores, restaurants, and a movie theater. Historic Valley Junction offers a unique shopping experience with over 160 independent boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. For entertainment, Smash Park provides pickleball, games, food, and drinks, while Spare Time West Des Moines offers bowling and arcade games.
What cultural sites can I explore in West Des Moines?
Beyond historical landmarks, West Des Moines has cultural gems. The Jordan House Museum showcases artifacts related to the city's history. The Foundry in Valley Junction is a cultural hub hosting local food vendors, live music, and art exhibits. The Val Air Ballroom, a historic venue, now hosts concerts, and Historic Valley Junction itself provides a unique cultural atmosphere with its independent shops and galleries.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in West Des Moines?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The unique design and purpose of the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge are often highlighted. The extensive, traffic-free nature of trails like the Neal Smith Trail for cycling and the serene environment of Gray's Lake Park are also popular. The community values the well-maintained outdoor spaces and the rich historical context of sites like the Jordan House.
When is the best time to visit West Des Moines for outdoor activities?
The spring and fall seasons are particularly pleasant for outdoor activities in West Des Moines. During these times, the weather is mild, and areas like Brown's Woods become crucial stopovers for migratory birds, making them ideal for birdwatching. Summer also offers opportunities for water activities at Raccoon River Park and the popular farmers market in Historic Valley Junction.
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