Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines Symphony

Iowa State Capitol

Century-old building features 275-foot gold-leafed dome flanked by four smaller domes, grand staircase and beautiful woodwork. See legislative and old Supreme Court chambers, Governor's office, five-story law library, scale model of Battleship Iowa, collection of first-lady dolls. Tours last 60

Fort Des Moines Memorial Park and Education Center

America's largest memorial to black and female soldiers. A 4.6-acre memorial park includes 20,000 sq. ft. museum and historic chapel.

Blank Park Zoo

Beautifully-landscaped 22-acre zoological park featuring naturalistic exhibits with more than 800 animals from five continents, including lions, tigers, sea lions, snow leopards, giraffe. Train ride, camel ride, gift shop and cafe. Discovery Center includes Iowa'

Des Moines Playhouse

The Playhouse presents 12-14 musicals, comedies, dramas and family shows each year.