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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.
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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.
The Great Hall.

Des Moines, Iowa

Salisbury House & Gardens

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

Des Moines, Iowa

Robert D. Ray Asian Garden

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

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

Zombies 1
Nobel Prize 1
Museums 1
Secret 1
Gardens 1
Houses 1
Food 1
Unique Restaurants & Bars 1
Plants 1
Photography 1
Media 1
History & Culture 1

Des Moines Leaderboard

Places Added

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    1
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    1
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    1
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Places Edited

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    3
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    3
  3. abandonedexplorerscom profile photo
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    3
  4. ski queen profile photo
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    3
  5. RStephens profile photo
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    2
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Places Visited

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    8
  2. M mj48155 profile photo
    mj48155
    8
  3. E ellsryan profile photo
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    8
  4. J jorgensenjc profile photo
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    8
  5. M meganbrown profile photo
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Recent Des Moines Activity

  • H hockeyisgood profile photo

    hockeyisgood

    has been to Robert D. Ray Asian Garden

  • S saintshornets1 profile photo

    saintshornets1

    has been to West End Architectural Salvage

  • K kristengranata profile photo

    kristengranata

    has been to Zombie Burger + Drink Lab

  • M morgangladson21 profile photo

    morgangladson21

    has been to Zombie Burger + Drink Lab

  • A abigailannedm profile photo

    abigailannedm

    wants to go to 'Better Homes and Gardens' Test Garden

Stories About Des Moines

This Iowa Summer Camp Is Abuzz With Mosquitoes

But not in the way you're thinking.
by Katherine R. Bruna, Atlas Obscura
May 27, 2024
Aerial image of Vietnam, displaying the picturesque rice terraces, characterized by their layered, verdant fields.
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