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Downtown Des Moines Neighborhoods

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) offers a range of housing options designed to fit every lifestyle. From riverfront townhomes to character-filled apartments in the Historic East Village, Downtown living blends style, convenience and connection. Step outside your door to dinner on Court Avenue, commute seamlessly via the the skywalk or unwind with a walk through the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park near Sherman Hill. Whatever you’re looking for, you can find your home in Downtown DSM.

With walkable neighborhoods, modern amenities and vibrant surroundings, Downtown DSM makes it easy to live where you work—and love where you live.

Graphic of a blueprint of a house that says "1000+ new housing units planned or under construction downtown."

Downtown Des Moines Neighborhoods & Housing

Interested in finding out more about Downtown DSM neighborhoods? From the Historic East Village to the growing Gray's Lake Area neighborhood, there's a location perfect for you to connect to the community and find the perfect home in Downtown DSM.

  • Gray's Lake Area – Right along Gray’s Lake and seamlessly connected to Downtown, this area blends natural beauty with city energy. Enjoy miles of scenic trails, nearby local eateries, and the Lauridsen Amphitheater—home to a dynamic lineup of performances and events—all with easy access to the expansive 1,500-acre Water Works Park
  • Historic Court District – At the heart of Downtown DSM, this District is in the center of everything, with access to trails, restaurants, entertainment and the famed Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health Des Moines.
  • Historic East Village – Here, block after block of locally owned shops, restaurants and services set the tone—surrounded by condos and lofts and a strong sense of neighborhood pride.”
  • Market District – One of the newest neighborhoods in Downtown DSM, this area is planned to take shape with new townhomes—many featuring rooftop views—and continued development alongside access to the Principal Riverwalk and more.
  • Sherman Hill – Historic apartments nestle against grand homes, all shaded by skyward-reaching trees. It has also been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1979.
  • Western Gateway Park – Art fans, this one is for you. The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park stands at the center of the Western Gateway and that’s only the start of this amenity-packed neighborhood.