Iowa State Capitol
A golden dome over a lavish interior.
Des Moines
Iowa's capital, with a gold-domed capitol, a great sculpture park and the famous Iowa State Fair each August, including its butter cow.
The caucuses bring candidates here every four years. The free Pappajohn Sculpture Park is downtown.
- Best Time
- Spring and fall
- Time Needed
- Half a day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Year-round
- Getting There
- Des Moines International is 15 minutes from downtown.
What to See
2 of 3 are freePappajohn Sculpture Park
Big works in the heart of downtown.
Iowa State Fair
August: butter sculptures and food on a stick.
Know Before You Go
- Check opening hours before you go, especially on weekends and at state buildings.
Where to Stay
Stay downtown.
Where to Eat
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Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Midwest list.