Des Moines is theheart of Iowa.
Farmers' market Saturdays, free art and sculpture, the Iowa State Fair and 46 neighborhoods, in one local guide.
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Des Moines residents The US Census Bureau's Vintage 2025 estimate put the City of Des Moines at 212,086 people on July 1, 2025.
Neighborhoods served by the City of Des Moines The city's own website says it serves more than 214,000 residents throughout 46 neighborhoods.
At the Downtown Farmers' Market across 12 city blocks The Downtown Farmers' Market, in the Historic Court District, listed 305 vendors from 74 cities in 42 counties for its May-to-October season.
In the 4.4-acre Pappajohn Sculpture Park The downtown park holds more than 30 works, and John and Mary Louise Pappajohn gave its first 24 sculptures.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main airport in Des Moines?
Des Moines International Airport, with the airport code DSM, is the main commercial airport for Des Moines and central Iowa. Its website lists 35 nonstop destinations served by six airlines.
How many people live in Des Moines, Iowa?
The US Census Bureau's Vintage 2025 estimate put the City of Des Moines, Iowa, at 212,086 residents on July 1, 2025. The city says it serves residents throughout 46 neighborhoods.
When is the Iowa State Fair?
The Iowa State Fair is held for 11 days in August at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, 3000 East Grand Avenue in Des Moines. The fair says it draws more than a million people each year.
Is the Des Moines Art Center free?
Yes. The Des Moines Art Center, at 4700 Grand Avenue in Des Moines, states that admission is always free.
Is the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in downtown Des Moines free?
Yes. The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a 4.4-acre park in downtown Des Moines and an extension of the Des Moines Art Center, lists free admission.
When is the Des Moines Downtown Farmers' Market?
The Downtown Farmers' Market in Des Moines' Historic Court District runs on Saturdays from May through October, from 7 a.m. to noon (8 a.m. to noon in October). It spans 12 city blocks.
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