Best Places for Greater Des Moines Views
Instagram-worthy views and backdrops from across Greater Des Moines (DSM) are perfect for sharing with your fans and followers, family and friends. Set up your next photo in what are considered the best places for views in the entire region! From likes to comments to shares, your content will go from meh to marvelous when you add images from these favorite spots. Check out our list of DSM photo-worthy sites below:
Bridges of Madison County
Ideal for architectural views
The six covered bridges found in Madison County and are said to represent the “birth of American engineering.” Visit the Covered Bridges of Madison County during the fall when the leaves begin to change and the fall colors are at their brightest, including during the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival that takes place in October.
Grinnell College
Ideal for architectural views
The Bucksbaum Art Center, Raynard S. Kington Plaza, Old Glove Factory and Goodnow Hall are just a few of the spaces you can find around the Grinnell College grounds if you’re looking for historical architecture in the region.
Photo Credit: Justin Haworth, Grinnell College
High Trestle Trail Bridge
Ideal for sunset views
Step into one of six overlooks on the High Trestle Trail Bridge that soars 13 stories high above the Des Moines River Valley. Along the bridge are public art installations and blue light illumination beginning at dusk.
Hinterland Music Festival
Ideal for crowd views and music celebrity sightings
Hinterland Music Festival in St. Charles has grown to include both up-and-coming musical acts and well-known names in its lineup. Every August, festivalgoers can capture the magic that happens on various stages over the course of three days. Note: Hit two birds with one stone and stop by the nearby Imes Bridge mentioned above while you’re at this event!
Photo Credit: Gaby Deimeke
Jester Park
Ideal for nature views
Snap a photo of the bison or elk at Jester Park from the viewing and picnic area. Jester Park aims to have around 10 adult bison and 10 adult elk at any given time to maintain a healthy pasture for the animals. Once you've seen the animals, wander the grounds of the Nature Center and walk eight miles of nature trails.
Lake Red Rock
Ideal for water views
Lake Red Rock is Iowa’s largest lake and offers numerous places for posing. From the Red Rock Dam to Cordova Observation Tower, there are so many views of the water in the Red Rock Area in Marion County. And don’t forget that Elk Rock State Park is situated on Lake Red Rock, a photo-ready hiking spot ready to explore.
Living History Farms
Ideal for historical views
What better place to get historical photos than on the grounds of an open-air museum? Living History Farms boasts farm buildings and interpreters that tell the story of Iowa’s prairies and how they were turned into farmland. Visit the 1700 Ioway Farm, the 1850 Pioneer Farm and the 1900 Horse-Powered Farm as well as the 1876 Town of Walnut Hill. Photos at this DSM attraction are permitted for personal, non-commercial use.
Newton Arboretum & Gardens
Ideal for sunrise and sunset views
See sculptures, water features and beautiful landscaping when you visit Newton Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Note: If you take photos or videos and are receiving compensation or payment for a sponsored post, you must purchase a PV Permit.
Photo courtesy to the Newton Arboretum
Molengracht Canal
Ideal for historical views
In Pella, you'll find views of Molengracht Plaza (pictured at the top of the page) to be right out of a tractional Dutch square. See authentic landmarks like the Molengracht Canal, the Vermeer Windmill and more.
Tournament Club of Iowa
Ideal for action-packed views
Check out the Tournament Club of Iowa in Polk City, where you can grab a photo of rolling hills, forestry and more. No matter the season, this Arnold Palmer golf course has 500 acres of photo-worthy opportunities.
There are so many things to do in Greater Des Moines (DSM)! From events and festivals to major attractions, living in DSM means having fun is a given. Check out the trails, Broadway shows, sports teams and more throughout the region. Find out what each community has to offer and build connections in DSM!
Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 6,700 Regional Business Members, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.