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    Des Moines Insider
    All Itineraries

    Quintessential Weekend Getaway

    The perfect 2-day itinerary to experience the best of Des Moines — from the Pappajohn Sculpture Park to the East Village food scene.

    Weekend
    General
    8 stops
    1

    Pappajohn Sculpture Park

    9:00 AM

    Start your morning with a stroll through this world-class outdoor sculpture garden featuring 30+ works.

    Insider Tip: Free admission. Best lighting for photos before 10 AM.
    2

    Scenic Route Bakery

    10:30 AM

    Grab a legendary cinnamon roll and coffee at this East Village staple.

    Insider Tip: Get there early — cinnamon rolls sell out by noon on weekends.
    3

    Des Moines Art Center

    12:00 PM

    Explore three distinct buildings by Eliel Saarinen, I.M. Pei, and Richard Meier.

    Insider Tip: Free admission. The Pei wing has an excellent contemporary collection.
    4

    Centro

    6:30 PM

    Italian fine dining in the heart of downtown for dinner.

    Insider Tip: Reservations recommended, especially Friday and Saturday.
    5

    Court Avenue District

    8:30 PM

    Explore the nightlife scene along Court Avenue.

    Insider Tip: Start at El Bait Shop for one of the largest craft beer selections in the Midwest.
    6

    Downtown Farmers Market

    8:00 AM

    Saturday morning: browse 300+ vendors at the largest farmers market in the Midwest (May–October).

    Insider Tip: Arrive early for parking. Bring a reusable bag.
    7

    Science Center of Iowa

    11:00 AM

    Interactive exhibits for all ages, plus an IMAX theater.

    Insider Tip: Check the planetarium show schedule online before visiting.
    8

    Zombie Burger + Drink Lab

    1:00 PM

    End the weekend with inventive burgers and milkshakes.

    Insider Tip: Try the Walking Ched (fried mac & cheese bun) — it is worth the hype.