As the capital of the state of Iowa, Des Moines is a bustling city filled with attractions, restaurants, and shopping. It’s no wonder that many people flock to this place for a good time, but getting there can be half the fun! If you’re starting your adventure from Ames, Iowa and want to make your way down to West Des Moines, Iowa, then you’re in for a treat. The journey takes approximately an hour, and along the way, you’ll come across some of the most beautiful stops and sites that this great state has to offer.
Here, we’ll take you on a journey highlighting the top places to see when driving from Ames, Iowa to West Des Moines, Iowa. You’ll discover the best spots to take a break, take in the fresh air, and enjoy the views. Whether you’re traveling with your family, significant other or alone, we’ve got you covered!
1. Reiman Gardens
Start your journey off right by exploring the beauty of Reiman Gardens, located in Ames, Iowa. Step into a world of tranquillity as you walk through the gardens of this lovely spot. You’ll see yourself surrounded by a sea of flowers in varying shades that will thrill your senses and leave you in awe. If you’re lucky, you may catch a groom and his bride taking their wedding photos against the backdrop of the garden's marvellous scenery.
If you’ve got kids, then Reiman Gardens is an excellent place for them to discover. It’s filled with interactive exhibits, winding mazes, and seasonal botanical displays. An absolute highlight of the Gardens is the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing, featuring hundreds of different butterfly species, and a fun activity center for kids to get involved. You can even catch a bite to eat and sip on some refreshment at the cafe while you take in the surroundings.
2. Iowa Arboretum
After a trip to Reiman Gardens, your love for nature certainly won’t end. The next stop on your journey will take you to Iowa Arboretum, located in Madrid, Iowa. This beautiful destination boasts about 460 acres of natural landscapes that feature a diverse range of plant species, ponds, and streams that wildlife calls home.
Iowa Arboretum offers different types of gardens that are uniquely designed to take you on a scenic journey through all stages of growth with their inhabitants. From flowering bulbs and blooming trees to verdant grasses and cactuses, the Iowa Arboretum has a plant life exhibit for everyone. There are plenty of walking paths and trails to explore, and if the weather is on your side, nothing can prevent an early-morning bird walk.
3. Penoach Winery
The Penoach Winery is a winery located in Adel, Iowa, and the perfect spot to wind down and enjoy the fruits of the surrounding farm's labour. It’s a family-run business, with Barbara and Ken Pennington owning it. They have been keeping the art of winemaking alive for over a decade, and the results of their labour show in the taste of their wines.
The winery is situated in a converted barn, which gives off a homey ambiance. The Penoach Winery boasts of several types of wine ranging from red to white to drier or sweeter wines, which you can experiment with during your stay. You can either make a reservation to have a personal wine tasting event or follow the recommendation of the skilled staff. If you’d like to learn more about the wine-making process, you can book a tour of the winery with Ken himself.
4. Living History Farms
At Living History Farms in Urbandale, Iowa, you'll learn all about the farming practices of Iowan settlers in the 1700s up to the 20th century. Living History Farms is an open-air museum that features three different eras of living. The first is the era of the Native American tribe who lived in the region and showcases housing, farming practices, and trade practices. The second period features scenes dating back to the era of the 1700s, where you can learn more about the settlers themselves and their farming methods.
Finally, there's the farm of the year 1900, which captures the essence of life during the early 20th century. You'll get up close and personal with animals, learn to use old-style farming tools, and participate in cooking and craft workshops. It’s a fun-filled day of learning and experiencing Iowa history.
5. Jordan Creek Town Center
End your day trip in style at Jordan Creek Town Center, West Des Moines Iowa. Jordan Creek Town Center is an outdoor shopping mall with plenty of stores and restaurants to choose from. It's an open-air shopping center that offers large parking lots, making it convenient for shoppers.
Jordan Creek Town Center is the perfect place to find everything you need. You'll find a broad range of shops, from high-end to affordable, as well as cozy cafes, restaurants, fast-food chains, and cinemas. Take a break and watch the latest movie, enjoy meals at the fancy restaurants or hunt for good finds in your favorite stores. From jewellery to clothes to electronics, Jordan Creek Town Center has you covered.
Conclusion
From gardens to wine to outdoor shopping malls, it’s clear that there’s so much to enjoy while driving from Ames, Iowa to West Des Moines, Iowa. The sights and experiences along the way will keep you entertained and refreshed, making the drive feel shorter than it is. While our list above is just the tip of the iceberg, we hope that it inspires you to explore even more of the beautiful state of Iowa. So, clasp your seat belts and hit the road, the adventure of a lifetime awaits!