Des Moines West KOA

Living History Farms

Discover American’s agricultural heritage as you walk through three working farms - each with authentic crops and livestock. Learn how Native Americans began growing crops in Iowa at the 1700 Farm. See how early farmers opened the prairie with oxen at the 1850 Farm. Find out how the horse-power and cast-iron machines revolutionized agriculture at the 1900 Farm. In the 1875 town of Walnut Hill, join in the excitement of a bustling Iowa frontier town with 14 homes, shops and businesses. Visit Living History Farms online for more information.

Bridges of Madison County

Visit the historic covered bridges, popularized by Robert James Waller's novel, "The Bridges of Madison County" and the feature film starring Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood. Roseman Covered Bridge was built in 1883 across the Middle River, southwest of Winterset, Iowa. Visit The Bridges of Madison County online for more information.

John Wayne Birthplace

While in Des Moines, you should check out the birthplace of an American Icon, John Wayne. See where life began for this world famous star. The four-roomed home built in 1880 has been brought back to its appearance of 1907. Here you can reminisce on the 'Duke's' life by viewing the memorabilia and photographs. Visit the gift shop and welcome center, too. The house is open for public tours. Visit The Birthplace of John Wayne online for more information.

Dallas County Courthouse

Iowa State Capitol

The Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines, signifies the prodigious spirit of Iowa. Built between 1871 and 1886, this magnificent building represents, both inside and out, one of the nation's finest examples of 19th century architecture. One of the most commanding features of the building is the towering dome constructed of steel and brick and is externally gilded with 23-karat gold leaf. Visit The State Capitol online for more information.

Blank Park Zoo

Plan a trip to the Blank Park Zoo on your visit. Animals from five different continents roam through magnificently landscaped habitats. These simulated habitats feature natural exhibits where visitors can observe over 1,000 different species. For children of all ages, there is also a petting area. A gift shop and snack bar complete the Zoo's attractions.Visit Blank Park Zoo online for more information.

Aircraft Supermarket/Golden Circle Air

Browse through a large assortment of ultralight and light aircraft, or watch videos of their history. Ride on one of these "little airplanes" over the most picturesque areas of Iowa -- above the beautiful Raccoon River Valley or the Bridges of Madison County. Lessons are also available. Visit Aircraft Supermarket online for more information.

Art Center

The Art Center complex is composed of three buildings situated at the entrance to Greenwood Park, an impressive hilltop location for this award-winning design by the internationally known architects, Saarinen, Meier and Pei. It's a fitting structure to house the wonderful collections inside. The works of many famous artists from the 19th and 20th centuries are inspiration for taking one of the many classes offered here from painting to sculpture to photography, papermaking, ceramics and many more. Whether a family workshop or an individual project, there's a great variety to choose from. The Art Center is well known for its neighborhood outreach programs. The Arts after Hours program happens on the first Friday of each month bringing live entertainment to the Art Center. There's also a cash bar and coffee bar. A wide variety of lectures, readings, poetry and films are regularly scheduled at the Center, a gem of culture in the heart of Des Moines. Visit The Art Center online for more information.

Billy Joe's Picture Show

Watch a movie, sing karaoke, have a burger. The only place in town with Friday night midnight showings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Visit Billy Joe's Picture Show online for more information.

Bob Feller Hometown Museum

Opened in 1995, it honors Van Meter's native son who set major league records while a pitcher for the Cleveland Indians from 1936 to 1956 and is a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. Visit The Bob Feller Museum online for more information.

Botanical Center

"The Des Moines Botanical Center is one of the most popular cultural attractions in Iowa, providing educational, recreational, and community resources to thousands. Its goal is to provide botanical displays and educational services for the people of Iowa. It is located on 14 acres along the east bank of the Des Moines River, close to downtown. Roughly 15,000 plants, tropical, sub tropical and desert plants.  The center is open all year around 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day). Visit The Botanical Center online for more information.

Brass Armadillo Antique Mall

You can furnish every room in the house, or simply add to your collection when you shop at the Brass Armadillo Antique Mall in Des Moines. More than 450 antique and collectible dealers under one roof! Visit The Brass Armadillo online for more information.

Civic Center

Every year, the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines welcomes a quarter of a million people to enjoy the wonder, the suspense and the joy of live theater. As a member of the League of American Theatres and Producers, Inc., the trade association of Broadway in New York and across the country, the Civic Center takes great pleasure in presenting the highest quality of professional touring theater productions to Central Iowa. Ballet, symphony, Broadway shows and concerts! Visit The Civic Center online for more information.

Crusoe Umbrella

Located in Nolan Plaza, downtown Des Moines. Visit Crusoe Umbrella online for more information.

Des Moines Metro Opera

Des Moines Metro Opera was founded in 1973 by Robert L. Larsen for two important purposes: To provide an opportunity for gifted young American singers to perform and to educate Midwestern audiences about opera, something they have limited opportunity to experience. For thirty years, Metro Opera has accomplished this by offering three productions each year during the Summer Festival in June and July. In 1975, the Company began the Apprentice Artist Program for college and post college age singers. In 1987, DMMO created OPERA Iowa. In its short history, this innovative educational troupe has introduced over 460,000 students and adults to opera in Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Japan and China. In October 2000, the Greater Des Moines Partnership awarded Des Moines Metro Opera its Celebrate Business "Best Kept Secret Award". Visit Des Moines Opera online for more information.

Des Moines Playhouse

The Des Moines Playhouse was founded in 1919 by members of the Iowa Press and Authors Club. Although the Little Theatre Movement was causing similar enterprises to spring up across the country, The Playhouse is unique in that it has operated continuously, under various names and in various homes, since its founding. With more than 80 years of uninterrupted service, The Playhouse is among the six oldest continuously-operating community theatres in the U.S. It is also the second largest community theatre in the U.S. Visit The Playhouse online for more information.

Des Moines Symphony

The Des Moines Symphony is a full-service professional orchestra. The orchestra performs seven pairs of classical concerts throughout the season, as well as a pops performance, family concerts, in-school ensemble performances, and its annual Yankee Doodle Pops concert, a free performance on the State Capitol grounds on July 3rd. Established in 1937 as an adjunct of Drake University, the Des Moines Symphony separated completely from Drake University in 1969. In 1979, the Symphony found a home in the newly established Civic Center, and now performs all of its indoor full orchestra concerts there. In 1987, Maestro Joseph Giunta joined the Des Moines Symphony as Music Director and Conductor, and is now celebrating 15 years of conducting the Des Moines Symphony. Visit Des Moines Symphony online for more information.

Des Moines Water Works Park

Biking, jogging, picnicking, fishing and hiking are a few of the activities that park patrons enjoy. Picnic areas, complete with tables and grills, are located in several areas of the park. Large, open areas are available for team sports such as softball, tag football and soccer. Visit Water Works Park online for more information.

Downtown Farmers' Market

"The Downtown Farmers Market is an open-air pedestrian-only market, which spans approximately 13 city blocks. Located in the historic Court Avenue District, it mirrors the history, culture, diversity, and people of Des Moines. Thanks to it’s committed management and vendors the Downtown Farmers Market has been nationally hailed as one of the best farmers markets in the nations by “Bon Apetit” and Country Living” magazines. Every week we bring fresh fruits, vegetable, home-baked pastries and breads, specialty cheeses and wine, hand crafted apparel and jewelry, together with music, magic and more! May to October (Mother's Day weekend to Halloween weekend). Visit The Downtown Farmers' Market online for more information.

Fort Des Moines

The museum and education center honors the U.S. Army’s first officer candidate class for African American men in 1917, and the establishment of the first Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC’s) in 1942. Visit The Fort online for more information.

Francesca's House

Fully restored for the film "Bridges of Madison County", the home's exterior and interior remain exactly the same as they were for the shooting of the movie and is open to the public for guided tours throughout the summer months. Visit Francesca's House online for more information.

Funny Bone Comedy Club

Our very own live comedy club. Some of the best comedians on the circuit. Visit The Funny Bone online for more information.

Gray's Lake Park

A lighted, two-mile trail encircling the lake connected by a 1/4 mile pedestrian bridge.  Boat rental available. Visit Gray's Lake Park online for more information.

Historic Valley Junction

If you fancy just strolling and browsing, then come down to Historic Valley Junction. Here you'll find over 120 shops! Antiques, art galleries, framing, bakeries, gourmet foods, clothing, floral and bouquets, furniture and home decor, gifts and collectibles, hair and beauty, jewelry, photography, restaurants and bars, specialty stores and more! Fun by day or night! Visit Valley Junction online for more information.

Hoyt Sherman Place

A grand manor home built in 1877 by prominent businessman Hoyt Sherman; the structure is now a museum and performing arts center. The original house and gallery display an impressive collection of 19th and 20th century paintings and elaborately carved 17th century furniture as well as many rare, ancient artifacts. The newly renovated historic theater built in 1923, hosts and impressive array of world renowned musicians, theatrical productions, and local performing arts events. Visit The Sherman Place online for more information.

Iowa Historical Museum

The Iowa Historical Building serves as an exciting place where Iowans and other visitors can experience the past. Housed within the building are the historical museum, historical library and archives, historic preservation offices, and administration offices of the Department of Cultural Affairs, the State Historical Society of Iowa, the Historical Foundation, and the Iowa Arts Council. You can visit state-of-the-art exhibits which allow you to explore the past in a way you many never have before. The interactive exhibits enable you to see, hear, and even touch Iowa's history. Another of the building's attractions is the library and archives, where genealogical and historical researches uncover the past. Visit The State Historical Society online for more information.

Jordan House Museum

The Jordan House, a stately Victorian home of Italianate Gothic design, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a member of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program. It is one of the oldest structures in Polk Country and the oldest in West Des Moines. Built by one of West Des Moines’ first settlers, James C. Jordan, the house today serves both as a museum for West Des Moines and as the office of West Des Moines Historical Society. The sixteen period rooms serve as a fitting backdrop of displaying the many antique treasures gathered from the rich heritage of West Des Moines. Visitors will also be interested in both the Underground Railroad Exhibit and the many artifacts from the regular railroad which played an important role in the early years of West Des Moines. Visit The Jordan House online for more information.

Majestic Lion Antique Center

The Majestic Lion has been voted Des Moines' #1 antique mall for a reason. With 250 selected dealers in more than 35,000 square feet, the Majestic Lion offers Central Iowa's largest and most exquisite inventory of quality antiques. Merchandise is displayed in a spacious, clean, well lit environment; shopping is easy and relaxed with wide aisles, accessible booths, bright showcases, and all-season, comfort-controlled temperature. A professional sales staff is always available to help you find that special piece of furniture or a particular collectible item of interest. Visit The Majestic Lion online for more information.

National Balloon Museum

Located in Indianola, IA, the National Balloon Museum chronicles more than 200 years of ballooning history. The museum’s extensive collection includes hundreds of artifacts related to the history and science of hot air balloons, gas balloons and air ships, as well as competitive events through the years, record-setting flights and more. The museum also features a gift shop full of balloon gifts and souvenirs. Visit The National Balloon Museum online for more information.

Patriotic Rock

The Patriotic rock, located at the Schildberg Construction - Jefferson Quarry and painted by Ray ""Bubba"" Sorensen.  The rock was a local graffiti rock for twenty years for the surrounding schools.  Out of respect, the local students have not defaced the painting in the past five years since Bubba has been painting his tribute. ""I love my country, and I do it out of respect for the veterans."" Quoted Ray ""Bubba"" Sorensen. Bubba draws a sketch of his idea on paper and then draws the design by free hand onto the rock. This takes him anywhere from one to three weeks to paint and he has been doing it for five consecutive years. Bubba is interested in military history and gets his ideas from books, movies, previous artwork and images by other artists. The rock is located on Highway 25, just 1 mile south of Interstate-80 near Greenfield, exit 86. Visit Freedom Rock online for more information.

Prairie Meadows Race Track & Casino

With 1,500 slot machines, free live entertainment, live racing April – October and great food; Prairie Meadows really is More Than You Imagine! Visit Prairie Meadows online for more information.

Raccoon Ridge 3-D Archery

Raccoon Ridge Archery is Iowa's premier 3d Archery Course.  RRAC offers a wide range of high-quality 3d targets for you to shoot at.  The Bluff shot, aerial targets, running deer, and tower speed shoots are novelty areas that will really test your skills! Plus, Raccoon Ridge is making additions and improvements all the time...it's NEVER the same course twice! Stuart, Iowa. Visit Raccoon Ridge online for more information.

Salisbury House

Salisbury House is a 42-room mansion located in Des Moines, Iowa. Modeled after the King's House in Salisbury, England, this American Castle is nestled on a ten-acre estate of virgin woodlands in the heart of Iowa's capital city. Iowans Carl and Edith Weeks built Salisbury House between 1923 and 1928. True to the history and design of the King's House, Salisbury House reflects the Tudor, Gothic, and Carolean periods of architecture. The mansion contains authentic 16th century English oak, English flintwork, and rafters that date back to the time of Shakespeare. Salisbury House is filled with the Weeks' original furnishings and collection of rare objects of art, paintings, tapestries, books, and letters. Salisbury House has been called a "national treasure" by the National Trust For Historic Preservation and was featured on the national television series America's Castles on the A & E Cable Network and Home and Garden Television's Christmas Castles. Visit Salisbury House online for more information.

Science Center of Iowa and IMAX Dome Theater

A 110,000 square foot facility will house three theaters - IMAX Dome Theater, John Deere Adventure Theater and Star Theater, seven themed interactive galleries, the Iowa Learning Center, gift shop and food cafe. Visit Iowa's Science Center online for more information.

Sleepy Hollow

Sleepy Hollow is Des Moines' unique 60 acre year-round outdoor sports and family recreation complex.  Sleepy Hollow emphasizes year round activities and family fun. Summer activities include baseball/softball batting range, miniature golf, go-karts, golf driving range, 9-hole par 3 golf course, climbing wall, and sand volleyball courts. Visit Sleepy Hollow online for more information.

Summerset Winery

Summerset Winery is one of the few operating wineries in Iowa that specialize in grape wine made from grapes grown in their own vineyards. Located in Indianola. Visit Summerset online for more information.

Terrace Hill

Benjamin Franklin Allen, Iowa's first millionaire, built Terrace Hill as his family home. Construction of this 18,000-square-foot home began in 1866 and was completed in 1869. The original cost of $250,000 included the Mansion, Carriage House, all of the furnishings, and approximately 30 acres of land. The house contained very modern features for its time, such as hot and cold running water, gas lights, a lift, and indoor restrooms. Terrace Hill was built on the far-western edge of Des Moines. It was referred to as ""The Palace of the Prairie."" The population of Des Moines at that time was fewer than 7,000 people. Today, the Greater Des Moines metropolitan area has a population of half a million people, and Terrace Hill is in the heart of the city. While the skyline of Des Moines has changed, the 90-foot tower of Terrace Hill still provides a commanding view of the capital city and its golden-domed Capitol, which was built several years after Terrace Hill. William Boyington, a popular Chicago architect of his time, designed Terrace Hill. Visit Terrace Hill online for more information.

Trainland USA

Trainland U.S.A. is an operating toy train museum, displaying Lionel trains and accessories. This exhibit represents three eras of time; frontier, steam, and diesel. All scenery is hand painted and the entire layout is glass enclosed. Four control panels create an automated train control system with their own telephone communications. There are approximately 60 operating Lionel accessories still in their original state. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Visit Trainland USA online for more information.

Valley Junction Farmer's Market

There are over 150 vendors on display outdoors every Thursday evening, May 11 - September 28, offering fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and arts & crafts. Held in conjunction with Music in the Junction which is a free outdoor concert series featuring various local bands. There is a "Refreshment tent" located in the alley directly in front of the stage! Visit Valley Junction online for more information.

Shopping Malls

Jordan Creek Town Center

A new shopping mall has opened in West Des Moines! Jordan Creek Town Center is a $200 million, 200-acre retail, dining, entertainment, and recreation development. The "shopping district" is a two-level enclosed shopping center featuring a dynamic combination of upscale fashion and lifestyle retailers in a streetscape design. The "lake district" highlights a 3.5 acre lake surrounded by bike trails, pedestrian walkways, and a boardwalk offering waterfront dining, a hotel and amphitheater. The "Village" hosts a collection of large and specialty retailers in an open-air lifestyle design with 120+ stores and dozen of eateries! Just 15 minutes from the KOA! Visit Jordan Creek's website for more information.

Merle Hay Mall

With over 100 merchants and a shopper-friendly facility of more than 1.2 million square feet, Merle Hay Mall offers our guests the opportunity to not only shop but to eat, explore, play and so much more. Visit Merle Hay Mall's website for more information.

Valley West Mall

There are 135 choices of specialty shops, department stores, restaurants and service stores located in West Des Moines. Visit Valley West Mall's website for more information.

Golf

River Valley Golf Course

River Valley Golf Course is open to the public and offers 18 challenging holes, Par 72, overlooking the Raccoon River Valley. Hole #12 is a beautiful Island Green. 7 miles from the KOA. Visit River Valley Golf online for more information.

West Grand Golf

Rated "Best Miniature Golf" by Cityview magazine. 18-hole miniature golf course, driving range, putting green, and picnic area. Visit West Grand Golf online for more information.

Madison County Winery

Madison County Winery is a startup native Iowa winery with vineyards located in both Madison and Story counties. Both vineyards are now in production and were planted in 2001 and 2000 respectively. Our Madison County site is located just west of St. Charles, IA while the Story County site is located just south of Colo, IA. The Des Moines West KOA proudly sells a great selection of Madison County Wine. Check out the wine rack display in their store!
COMING SOON: Plans are in the works to build a one-of-a-kind winery/leisure destination on our Madison County vineyard property. Tucked in the rolling hills of south central Iowa, this site overlooks a picturesque valley. With beautiful vistas in all directions it's the perfect setting to escape, relax, and savor a quality wine. Visit http://www.madisoncountywinery.com/index.htm for additional information.

Jasper Winery

Hidden among the rolling hills of Iowa, growing in a swerve towards the sun, are the luscious grapes that have come to a juicy end in a bottle of Jasper wine. Located in Newton, Iowa, Jasper Winery produces high-quality wines using grape varieties that thrive in the relatively cold climate of the Midwest. The Des Moines West KOA proudly sells a great selection of Madison County Wine. Check out the wine rack display in their store! Visit http://www.jasperwinery.com/ for more information.

Red Barron Choppers

Located 4 miles from the KOA in DeSoto, Iowa, this custom chopper shop is the talk of the town! Stop by the showroom to experience their creations in person. Red Barron Graphics apparel available. Visit http://redbarronchoppers.com/ for more information.

Raccoon River Valley Bike Trail

Bikers will encounter all kinds of wildlife, farm animals and birds along the 56-mile trail. They also will ride through new retail shopping developments in Waukee, past the booming brickyards of Adel and within two blocks of the gorgeous "French castle" Dallas County Courthouse in Adel. Experience several sites of mills and livestock shipping terminals that operated in pioneer times, view beautiful Lake Panorama from the trail just north of Panora and cross a 600-foot-long railroad trestle bridge over the North Raccoon River. Complete the ride in Jefferson and hear the carillon playing atop the 162-foot-tall Mahanay Memorial Tower on the Greene County Courthouse Square. Visit http://www.raccoonrivervalleytrail.org/ for additional information.

Iowa Cubs Baseball

The Iowa Cubs are the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. The 2008 season begins April 3 and winds-up July 31. Visit http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/index.jsp?sid=t451 for more information.