By Megan Mitchum + Co
One of the great joys of life in the Des Moines metro is how much there is to discover beyond the obvious. Tucked into its charming districts are independent boutiques, talented local makers, and experiences that give this area its distinct personality. Whether you are new to the area or a longtime local, there is always something fresh to explore. Here are some of the hidden gems of the Des Moines metro that we love sharing with the people we work with.
Key Takeaways
- The metro is full of charming, walkable shopping districts.
- Local makers and artisans give the area its unique character.
- Standout cultural and outdoor experiences are close at hand.
- A rich food and drink scene rounds out the local flavor.
Boutique Shopping Districts
Some of the best shopping in the metro is found not in big malls but in its charming, walkable districts. These pockets are full of independent boutiques and one-of-a-kind finds. They are among our favorite places to send people exploring.
Districts Worth a Stroll
When we point people toward local shopping, these districts always top the list:
- The East Village downtown, full of stylish boutiques and character
- Historic Valley Junction in West Des Moines, known for antiques and shops
- The charming, walkable heart of Beaverdale
- Independent storefronts scattered throughout the metro's neighborhoods
Local Makers and Artisans
Part of what makes the Des Moines area so special is its community of talented makers. From artisans to local brands, the metro celebrates creativity in wonderful ways. Supporting these makers is one of the best ways to experience the local spirit.
Where to Find Local Craft
To discover the work of area makers, we recommend seeking out:
- The beloved Downtown Farmers' Market during the season
- Locally founded favorites like the popular RayGun shop
- Handmade goods from area artisans and craftspeople
- Small-batch roasters and local specialty producers
Experiences Worth Exploring
Beyond shopping, the metro offers an impressive array of cultural and outdoor experiences. Many of these are free or easy to enjoy on a whim. They are the kinds of places that make everyday life here feel special.
Local Experiences We Love
Whenever we share our favorite outings, these come up again and again:
- The Pappajohn Sculpture Park in the heart of downtown
- The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden along the river
- The scenic High Trestle Trail for walking and biking
- Gray's Lake Park for a beautiful stroll near the water
Food, Drink, and Local Flavor
No exploration of the metro would be complete without its food and drink scene. Des Moines has developed a genuine love for local flavor, from coffee to craft beverages. These spots are where the community comes together.
Tastes of the Metro
To savor the local scene, we encourage people to explore:
- The area's growing collection of local craft breweries
- Independent coffee roasters and cozy cafes
- Farm-to-table dining that celebrates Iowa ingredients
- The seasonal food offerings at local markets
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best boutique shopping in the Des Moines metro?
The East Village downtown and Historic Valley Junction in West Des Moines are two of our favorites, both full of independent boutiques and charm. We are always glad to share more of our go-to spots for one-of-a-kind finds.
What are some unique experiences in Des Moines?
The Pappajohn Sculpture Park, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and the scenic High Trestle Trail are all wonderful and distinctly local. These are the kinds of experiences that make the metro such a rewarding place to explore.
How can we discover local makers in the area?
The Downtown Farmers' Market is a fantastic starting point during the season, along with locally founded shops and area artisans. We love pointing people toward the makers and small businesses that give the metro its character.
Reach Out to Megan Mitchum + Co Today
Knowing a community from the inside is what makes living here so rewarding, and sharing the hidden gems of the Des Moines metro is one of the true pleasures of what we do. This area has so much personality, and we love helping people discover it.
If you are thinking about calling the Des Moines metro home, or simply want to explore more of what it offers, reach out to us at Megan Mitchum + Co. We would be glad to share our favorite local spots and help you find the perfect place within this wonderful community.
If you are thinking about calling the Des Moines metro home, or simply want to explore more of what it offers, reach out to us at Megan Mitchum + Co. We would be glad to share our favorite local spots and help you find the perfect place within this wonderful community.
