Caucus 2020 Part IV: 10 Instagram-Worthy Selfie Spots in DSM

Some say a picture is worth a thousand words. But it can be difficult to know where to go for that perfect photo. In no particular order, here’s our list of a few of Greater Des Moines’ (DSM’s) most Instagrammable locations.

Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Location: 1330 Grand Avenue, Des Moines

Located in the middle of Downtown DSM, Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a much-visited, often-photographed favorite. Just this past summer, the park added a new spot that’s been a hit with locals and visitors and featured on many an Instagram account: the “Love” sculpture by artist Robert Indiana.

Cheers From Des Moines Mural

Location: 1514 Walnut Street, Des Moines

As a part of the Des Moines Walls Project, the “Cheers from Des Moines” mural by Ben Schuh showcases local DSM landmarks. The mural is painted on the Exile Brewing Company building on Walnut Street.

Raygun

Location: 505 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines

This t-shirt store originated in DSM’s Historic East Village. Its “The Greatest Store in the Universe” mural is just one of its Instagrammable opportunities. Check out the clothing and gift collections for fun Midwest memorabilia and Caucus stickers, socks and t-shirts that are sure to produce the likes and comments you crave.

Gray’s Station Pedestrian Bridge

Location: Gray’s Lake, Des Moines

This lighted bridge connects Downtown DSM with Gray’s Lake. Opening in November 2019, the pedestrian bridge allows visitors to overlook the Raccoon River. See a timelapse of the bridge’s construction by Hubbell here.

My Heart Belongs to Des Moines Mural

Location: The Parker, Corner of 7^th Street + Park Street, Des Moines

Created by DSM artist Jenna Brownlee, the “My Heart Belongs to Des Moines” mural is a homage to the city. Step inside of The Parker to check out a smaller “DSM” blue floral mural, also painted by Brownlee.

Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge

Location: Principal Riverwalk, Des Moines

The Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge recognizes women of Iowa who have contributed to the state through their work. The bridge honored three women in 2019 with new plaques on the bridge, including Theresa “Billee” Davis, Willie Glanton and Ola Miller.

This Must Be the Place Mural

Location: RoCA, Court + Second Avenue, Des Moines

Painted by Anna Frederick, the “This Must Be the Place” artwork is part of larger collection of murals on RoCA’s east side, which also includes the “Home Sweet Des Moines” mural, as well as Van Holmgren’s mural created for The Bachelor.

Tursi’s Latin King

Location: 2200 Hubbell Avenue, Des Moines

This family-owned DSM restaurant serves up Italian dishes like Chicken Spiedini and New York Strip with charbroiled Iowa beef. Tursi’s Latin King’s desserts, drinks and ambiance all have the potential to be included as Instagram-worthy food photography. Don’t forget to tag ‘em, too: #foodie, #DSMfoodie, #goodeats and #DSMUSA.

Find a list of Downtown DSM restaurants from which to snag an Instagram photo here.

EMC Overlook

Location: MacRae Park, 1021 Davis Avenue, Des Moines

Another not-to-miss Instagram-worthy location is the EMC Overlook, which offers media and visitors an opportunity for a flawless post. The 96-foot long deck overlooks Downtown DSM and its lighting system allows for the perfect night photos.

Tip: Here’s a list of popular DSM hashtags you can use in your Instagram posts: #DSMUSA #desmoines #catchdesmoines #traveliowa #thisisiowa #ig_iowa #aroundiowa #iacaucus #iowacaucus

Read other posts from Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Caucus 2020 series, including: 5 New Restaurants in DSM Since 2016, New Bars + Breweries in DSM and New Coffee Spots in DSM.

As first in the nation, the Iowa Caucuses welcome national media and politicians every four years. Find out about the 2020 Iowa Caucuses, as well as the Iowa Caucus Consortium, an initiative of Catch Des Moines and the Greater Des Moines Partnership.