West Des Moines

This is your travel guide for West Des Moines, Iowa

1 : Visit Jordan Creek Town Center [<2 hrs]

Explore the largest shopping complex in Iowa, boasting over 150 stores, a variety of restaurants, a movie theater, and a man-made lake with gondola rides. Enjoy shopping for popular brands, dining at diverse eateries, or watching a movie in this vibrant shopping destination.

2 : Discover Raccoon River Park [<3 hrs]

Enjoy outdoor activities at this expansive park, which features a beach for swimming, hiking and biking trails, a nature lodge, picnic areas, and a playground. Rent paddleboards, kayaks, or canoes to explore Blue Heron Lake. The park is also home to various wildlife species, making it a great spot for birdwatching.

3 : Explore Valley Junction Historic District [<2 hrs]

Stroll through the charming streets of this historic district filled with boutiques, art galleries, antiques shops, and restaurants housed in renovated buildings. Discover unique gifts, handmade crafts, and local art while immersing yourself in the area’s rich history. Don’t miss the weekly farmers’ market featuring local produce, live music, and food vendors.

4 : Visit the Historical Jordan House [<1 hr]

Take a guided tour of this restored Italianate-style house built in 1850, which serves as a museum showcasing the history of the Underground Railroad, early settlers of Iowa, and local architecture. Learn about the influential Jordan family and their contributions to the community while exploring the period-furnished rooms and exhibits.

5 : Attend a Show at the Funny Bone Comedy Club [<2 hrs]

Laugh the night away at this popular comedy club that hosts a variety of stand-up comedy shows featuring both established and up-and-coming comedians. Enjoy a night of entertainment, food, and drinks in a casual and intimate setting. Check the schedule for upcoming performances and book tickets in advance to secure your seat.

Background Info

Weather

West Des Moines experiences a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures average around 85°F (29°C) with occasional thunderstorms. Winter temperatures can drop to around 20°F (-7°C) with snowfall. Average annual rainfall is around 36 inches, and humidity levels range from 60% to 80%.

Language

English is the predominant language spoken in West Des Moines.

Cost Of Living

The cost of living index in West Des Moines is slightly lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to reside. Housing costs, utilities, and transportation are relatively reasonable compared to other U.S. cities.

Other

West Des Moines has a low crime rate, good public school system, and offers a variety of recreational activities, making it a family-friendly and desirable place to live. The city also has a growing economy with diverse job opportunities in industries such as finance, insurance, technology, and healthcare.