Des Moines is the capitol of Iowa and is named for the Des Moines River. The area’s economy is based around the insurance industry, financial services, and publishing. In 2010 it was named as one of the Best Cities for Business and Careers by Forbes Magazine.  The area offers residents a variety of options for housing, recreation, and business. Des Moines is home to the Iowa caucuses, prompting many politicians to set up their campaign headquarters in the area.

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Des Moines has a busy and thriving performing arts community.  Residents enjoy Broadway shows and live theater performances at the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines, the Temple for Performing Arts, and the Des Moines Playhouse.  The Des Moines Metro Opera, Ballet Des Moines and the Des Moines Symphony are also popular with residents. Wells Fargo Arena and Simon Estes Riverfront Amphitheater feature a variety of different performances and events. The Des Moines Art Center is popular with residents and features exhibitions, classes, and educational programs. The Pappajohn sculpture park features 24 outdoor sculptures.  Also of interest is the Salisbury House and Gardens, a 42 room mansion built in the 1920’s that hosts special events throughout the year. The Hoyt Sherman Place Mansion includes an art gallery and theater.

One of the most striking features of the Des Moines skyline is the Iowa state capitol and its 23 carat gold leaf dome. Terrace Hill, the governor’s mansion and a historic landmark and the State of Iowa Historical Museum are located nearby. The Des Moines Botanical Center is an indoor conservatory and features one of the largest collections of plant life in the Midwest. The Blank Park Zoo and Great Ape Trust are also popular. Adventureland Park amusement park and Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino are located nearby in Altoona.  Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy 76 different city parks that feature hiking biking, swimming, and golf.

Sports fans can checkout a baseball game of the Iowa Cubs or a basketball game featuring the Iowa Energy. Des Moines is also home to the Des Moines Buccaneers Hockey team and the Des Moines Menace soccer team.

As you can see, Des Moines has plenty to offer their apartment residents. Whether you are eager to live in a booming metropolis or relax in a quaint suburb, Des Moines has something for everyone. If you haven’t narrowed down your apartment search to a specific city or neighborhood within the greater Des Moines area our Area Guides and Neighborhood Reviews will certainly point you in the right direction. Choose from the cities below to learn about their living style, demographics and neighborhoods. Once you find the right area to suit your needs, finding an apartment will be easy.

Learn more about popular cities in the Greater Des Moines Metro

There are cities in the Greater Des Moines Area. Learn more about what each city has to offer when it comes to tips, restaurants, shopping, demographics, and much more.