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Des Moines Journals

Des Moines Highlights

A travel journal to Des Moines by CheapSk8

Quote: Des Moines, Iowa is probably not the first place you think of when you think of excitement. But, Des Moines has a lot to offer, whether you're traveling with kids or a business person with a few hours to kill.
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Des Moines Highlights Best of IgoUgo

Overview

Quote:
Take in some of the history (visit the Iowa Capitol, Living History Farms, the Historical Society), have some fun (at the Science Center, Botanical Center), and just relax in Des Moines. The prices are low, the people are friendly, and while it may not be your top spring break destination, it is a great weekend trip. Quick Tips: Many Iowans have never set foot on a farm, so drop your preconceived notions, and visit Des Moines with an open mind. Best Way To Get Around: You will need a car to get around Des Moines. Though public transportation (buses) and taxis are available, neither is a particularly reliable or efficient way to get around. Fortunately, with the exception of some ...Read More

Marriott Des Moines Best of IgoUgo

Hotel | "The Des Moines Marriott"

Quote:
The Des Moines Marriott Downtown is a nice place to stay and is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Des Moines. Through www.priceline.com, you may be able to get a room here very inexpensively ($35-50 per night). Even if you have to pay full price, though, this is still a Marriott that lives up to the expectations you have of a Marriott--great service, nice rooms, room service, valet parking ($14/day), indoor pool, restaurant, etc.

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on March 28, 2004

Marriott Des Moines
700 GRAND AVE
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
515-245-5500

Embassy Suites Des Moines - On the River Best of IgoUgo

Hotel | "Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines On The River"

Quote:
Like all Embassy Suites, this hotel is good for families or business travelers because of the large size of the suites, the ability to keep food in the refrigerator, etc. The free cooked-to-order breakfast in the atrium by the waterfall is also great. (But be forewarned that the line for pancakes, omelets, etc. can be long. If you're in a hurry, you may end up with cold cereal so you don't have to wait in line.) But this property is especially convenient for families visiting Des Moines because of its location and amenities. In addition to an indoor pool and waterpool, the hotel has a wonderful sundeck that is great for getting pictures of the Des Moines skyline. Parking at the hotel...Read More

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on April 5, 2004

Embassy Suites Des Moines - On the River
101 EAST LOCUST ST
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
515 244-1700

Koa Des Moines West Best of IgoUgo

Hotel | "Des Moines West KOA"

Quote:
Best Things Nearby:This is really the problem with this facility--unless you are there for the Bridges of Madison County, John Wayne Birthplace, or Living History Farms, there isn't much to do nearby. To visit any of the attractions in Des Moines (Capitol, Botanical Center, Science Center, etc.), you have to drive into Des Moines, often through commuting traffic in the mornings. Best Things About the Resort:If you are there to relax and get away from the world, or to visit the Bridges of Madison County, John Wayne birthplace, or Living History Farms, it's a good choice. Resort Experience:I love KOAs, but this one leaves some things to b...Read More

Member Rating 3 out of 5 on April 5, 2004

Koa Des Moines West
3418 L Avenue
Des Moines, Iowa 50069
(515) 834-2729

Raccoon River Brewing Company Best of IgoUgo

Restaurant

Quote:
Although reservations are accepted, they are almost never necessary at this Des Moines institution. Raccoon River Brewing Company features sandwiches and hearty entrees along with fresh beer brewed on the premises at reasonable prices with friendly service. The pasta dishes and "house specialties" for dinner--tuna, salmon, etc. are around $15-16. For lunch, pasta dishes and sandwiches are under $10 each. Late at night, it is a popular gathering spot (especially Tuesday night for salsa dancing and Friday and Saturday nights for live music) but for dinner or lunch it's a good place to take the entire family for a good meal. The location--10th & Mulberr...Read More

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on March 28, 2004

Raccoon River Brewing Company
200 10th Street & Mulberry
Des Moines, Iowa
515-362-5222

Science Center of Iowa Best of IgoUgo

Attraction

Quote:
The Science Center is more than just a museum. It has hands-on exhibits that teach everything from static electricity to how volcanoes erupt. For less than half the price of the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, you can enjoy a far less crowded science musuem with almost as many hands on activities.

Even if you aren't very interested in science, the laser show is worth the visit.

The Science Center's website is:
http://www.sciowa.org/

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on March 28, 2004

Science Center of Iowa
401 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy.
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
515/274-6868

Iowa State Historical Society Best of IgoUgo

Attraction

Quote:
The Iowa State Historical Society is interesting for anyone interested in history in general or the history of Iowa in particular.

The Historical Society is not just dusty old junk--there are many interactive exhibits, and an inexpensive cafe makes for a nice place to rest. Admission is free, as is the parking.

The Historical Society is located about 1 block downhill from the Iowa Capital, and the two make for a nice morning or afternoon worth of sight-seeing.

The Iowa State Historical Society's website is: http://www.iowahistory.org/index.html

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on March 28, 2004

Iowa State Historical Society
600 East Locust
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
(515) 281-6412

About the Writer

CheapSk8

CheapSk8
Chicago, Illinois

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