Can you believe it? World Pork Expo (WPX) is less than a week away! Most of you are probably in the “crunch-time” mode to get the final touches complete before you take your adventure to Des Moines, Iowa, in the Hawkeye state. As you finish packing your show clothes and trailers, we combined a list of some of the top places to visit while in Des Moines after the shows or in your downtime during the day. These range from museums, amusement parks, shopping and more. Safe travels to WPX, and we are looking forward to seeing everyone there!
Lucky for us, WPX is hosted here! The Iowa State Fairgrounds is an extremely popular place in Iowa, especially during the summer. The fairground takes up approximately 450 acres and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places because of its buildings. The Iowa State Fair is consecutively ranked highly amongst the top things people should do during the summer. So, if you make it back to the Des Moines area in August, make sure to stop by.
Picture courtesy of http://www.blueribbonfoundation.org/.
2. Adventureland Amusement Park
For the thrill seekers of the family, a trip to Des Moines’ amusement park could be a must-do while you are there. But, don’t worry – there are plenty of fun options to do for those who are not very enthusiastic about jumping on a huge roller coaster. Hours vary depending on the day so be sure to check out their website.
Picture courtesy of http://www.thewildwoodlodge.com/des-moines/local-attractions/.
Lions, tigers and bears – oh my! If you are looking to venture out of the pig world for a few hours and want to visit some more exotic animals, the zoo might be a great place to visit. They have a wide range of exhibits from Australia to penguins and a lot more in between.
Picture courtesy of http://www.blankparkzoo.com/.
Looking for a free activity to do? Try the Des Moines Art Center. With a vast array of artwork from different periods in the art world, you are sure to find this attraction interesting.
Picture courtesy of http://www.desmoinesartcenter.org/visit/Default.aspx.
Whether you just want to go shopping or maybe forgot your show clothes at home (unfortunately, it just happens sometimes), stop by the Jordan Creek Town Center. They also have places to dine and a movie theater to catch a movie after getting chores done.
Picture courtesy of http://vccusa.com/experience/new-mall-construction/.
“Take me out to the ballgame; take me out with the crowd.” Baseball season is here! Sadly, the Iowa Cubs are on the road while most of the action is going on at WPX. There is however a game Saturday, June 6, in town if you are interested in watching some minor league baseball on your way home from the show.
Picture courtesy of http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g37835-d1752074-Reviews-Principal_Park-Des_Moines_Iowa.html.
Located in downtown and a part of the Des Moines Art Center, the Pappajohn Sculpture Park is home to 27 pieces of art made by 22 of the world’s most famous artists. It is situated on 4.4 acres of land and has guided tours available. Hours are from sunrise to midnight. If you are looking to take a walk on the creative side, the sculpture park would be a great, relaxing, evening activity.
Picture courtesy of https://roadtrippers.com/us/des-moines-ia/activities/john-and-mary-pappajohn-sculpture-park?lat=40.83044&lng=-96.67969&z=5.
Take a step back in time with the Weeks Family and explore the collections of memorabilia they gathered throughout their life at the Salisbury House and Garden. They offer self-guided tours as well as guided tours to uncover the history kept within the walls of the house.
Picture courtesy of http://www.traveliowa.com/aspx/dest.aspx?id=6926.
Everyone has a little “inner geek” in them. Discover the Science Center of Iowa and experience the many platforms to learn about different facets of the science field. There is something for both the young and the young-at-heart!
Picture courtesy of http://pitstopsforkids.com/2010/03/science-center-of-iowa/.
Last but certainly not least, if you are looking to learn more about the rich history and development of the state of Iowa, the State Historical Museum is a place right up your ally.
Picture courtesy of http://www.iowahistory.org/museum/.