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All the United States Iowa Des Moines

The Atlas Obscura Guide To Des Moines

8 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Des Moines, Iowa

Updated May 27, 2024

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Unusual Attractions in Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa

Zombie Burger + Drink Lab

This zombie-themed restaurant stands out in the heart of corn country.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Des Moines, Iowa

Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Millions of dollars worth of sculpture decorate this Iowa city center.
West End Architectural Salvage

Des Moines, Iowa

West End Architectural Salvage

Piled high inside this warehouse and coffee shop are salvaged goods that span every corner of the globe.
A patio photographed at the Test Garden.

Des Moines, Iowa

'Better Homes and Gardens' Test Garden

The magazine keeps a perfectly groomed display garden for its photo shoots.
World Food Prize Hall of Laureates

Des Moines, Iowa

World Food Prize Hall of Laureates

The headquarters of the prestigious World Food Prize celebrates the heroes in the fight against hunger, has no cafeteria.
The Great Hall.

Des Moines, Iowa

Salisbury House & Gardens

Architectural elements and building materials for this house were transported from Salisbury, England.
Robert D. Ray Asian Garden

Des Moines, Iowa

Robert D. Ray Asian Garden

Dedicated to the humanitarian efforts of the state's former governor.
'In-the-Loop'

Des Moines, Iowa

'In-the-Loop'

A unique work of outsider art sourced from scrap metals and signifies conservation.

Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Des Moines

World Food Prize Hall of Laureates

Des Moines, Iowa

World Food Prize Hall of Laureates

The headquarters of the prestigious World Food Prize celebrates the heroes in the fight against hunger, has no cafeteria.
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Unforgettable Experiences Nearby

Explore Des Moines, Iowa

A

Des Moines Leaderboard

Places Added

  1. Ryan Newman
    2
  2. leiris
    1
  3. BasedGod
    1
  4. kakashichoas
    1
  5. tnorthness
    1
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Add an unusual place to Des Moines.

Places Edited

  1. abandonedexplorerscom
    3
  2. MauiKat
    3
  3. ski queen
    3
  4. Martin
    2
  5. SemiruralYeti
    2
Join the Ranks!
Improve the Atlas with edits and photos.

Places Visited

  1. danwelk323
    8
  2. meganbrown
    8
  3. CSH
    7
  4. angelarene175
    7
  5. HMS Beangle
    7
Join the Ranks!
Visit a place in Des Moines.

Recent Des Moines Activity

  • kelfletcher

    has been to 'In-the-Loop'

    1 day ago
  • kelfletcher

    has been to Pappajohn Sculpture Park

    1 day ago
  • squirelsnut84

    has been to Pappajohn Sculpture Park

    1 day ago
  • squirelsnut84

    wants to go to West End Architectural Salvage

    1 day ago
  • pemasimore

    has been to Robert D. Ray Asian Garden

    1 day ago

Stories About Des Moines

This Iowa Summer Camp Is Abuzz With Mosquitoes

But not in the way you're thinking.
by Katherine R. Bruna
May 27, 2024

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