Shop Your Way Through Greater Des Moines

Whether you’re checking items off a wish list, hunting for the perfect gift or just treating yourself, Greater Des Moines (DSM) is packed with shopping destinations that fit every style and budget. The DSM’s shopping scene blends convenience, creativity and local charm in every corner of the region.

Here’s your guide to the top shopping spots, so you can shop your way across Greater DSM.

Local Shops and Main Streets in Greater Des Moines

Sometimes the best finds are off the beaten path. These downtown areas and main streets across the region offer small-town charm with a serious shopping lineup — perfect for day trips or leisurely weekend strolls.

Adel Downtown Square

Dallas County
Surrounding the historic courthouse, Adel’s square features boutiques, a bakery and more — all wrapped in small-town Iowa charm. Don’t miss Azalea Lane Boutique for women’s fashion, Real Deals for home décor and seasonal finds, and River to River Bakery & Pizza for fresh pastries and pizza. 

Learn more about shopping in Adel.

Downtown Cumming

Warren County
Tiny but mighty, Cumming offers several gems (especially for cyclists on the Great Western Trail) and a welcoming community feel, with plenty of growth on the horizon. Stop by Middlebrook Mercantile for coffee, wine and local goods. Stop at Ted Lare Design + Build’s seasonal retail shop for plants, garden gear, gifts and more. Explore Wilson’s Orchard & Ciderhouse for farm-fresh produce and seasonal events. 

Learn more about Middlebrook Main Street.

Downtown Grinnell

Poweshiek County
A vibrant college-town vibe with art galleries, bookstores, fashion boutiques and coffee shops all within walking distance. Check out Saints Rest Coffee House for your caffeine fix, McNally’s Foods for local groceries and Grinnell Craft Brewhouse for a taste of local brews.

Learn more about shopping in Grinnell.

Downtown Marshalltown

Marshall County
This revitalized district offers a great mix of shops, public art and local eats — part of the city’s ongoing downtown comeback story. Visit Zamora Fresh Market for fresh produce, Hellberg’s Jewelers for fine jewelry and Thompson True Value Hardware for home essentials.

Learn more about shopping in Marshalltown.

Downtown Pella

Marion County
Step into a Dutch-inspired town square filled with bakeries, gift shops and year-round charm. A must-stop, especially during Tulip Time. Explore Jaarsma Bakery for Dutch pastries (photo below), Frisian Farms Cheese House for local cheeses and Pella Books for a great selection of reads.

Learn more about shopping in Pella.

Downtown Winterset

Madison County
Known for the Bridges of Madison County and a charming courthouse square packed with gift shops, boutiques and local flavor. Don’t miss Piece Works Quilt Shop for quilting supplies and Montross Pharmacy for gifts and more.

Learn more about shopping in Madison County.

Indianola Main Street

Warren County
Boutiques, bookshops and a cozy café or two make this a great spot to unwind and support local businesses. Visit The Stitching Place for sewing needs, Pageturners Bookstore for your next read and Uncommon Grounds for a relaxing coffee break.

Learn more about shopping in Indianola.

Oskaloosa Main Street

Mahaska County
Oskaloosa’s downtown has a classic Americana feel, with a beautiful square, local shops and regular community events. Check out Book Vault for a wide selection of books and Smokey Row Coffee for a cozy atmosphere.

Learn more about shopping in Oskaloosa.

Perry Main Street

Dallas County
Anchored by the historic Hotel Pattee, Perry’s downtown mixes retail, history and arts in one memorable stop. Explore La Poste for art and events, Perry Perk for a delightful coffee experience and Backwards Boutique for unique clothing finds.  

Learn more about shopping in Perry.

Uptown Ankeny

Polk County
A walkable mix of shops, food and entertainment. The High Trestle Trail trailhead adds a steady stream of foot traffic and cyclists to this charming area. Check out shops like Real Deals, Fuzed Jewelry, XOXO Gift and Home and Funky Zebras for a variety of shopping options.
Learn more about shopping in Uptown Ankeny.

Shopping Districts and Small Business Neighborhoods in Greater Des Moines

DSM’s neighborhoods are full of unique, independently owned businesses. These districts are ideal for discovering one-of-a-kind finds, supporting local makers and enjoying a walkable shopping experience with character.

The Avenues of Ingersoll and Grand

Des Moines
Historic charm meets modern style. Home to local boutiques, home décor shops and an evolving restaurant and bar scene, there’s plenty to discover in this evolving neighborhood.

Learn more about The Avenues.

Photo courtesy of Joe Crimmings for The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand

The District at Prairie Trail

Ankeny
Stylish and suburban, this area blends modern shops, dining and entertainment in a walkable community hub. Visit Mainstream Boutique for trendy women’s fashion, Purple Poppy Boutique for chic apparel and gifts and AR Workshop for DIY crafting experiences.

Learn more about The District.

Highland Park/Oak Park Neighborhood

Des Moines
An up-and-coming pocket of north Des Moines, known for vintage shops, locally made goods and a creative, community-driven vibe. Check out The Little Book for curated children’s books and The Slowdown Coffee Co. for beans and a rotating selection of finds.

Learn more about Highland Park/Oak Park

Historic East Village

Des Moines
Trendy and artsy, Historic East Village features DSM staples like Raygun, known for witty apparel and gifts, and Sticks, a longtime staple and hyper-local spot offering handcrafted furniture and art. Also explore AllSpice for a vast selection of spices and oils and Fontenelle Supply for leather goods and menswear.

Learn more about shopping in Historic East Village.

Historic Valley Junction

West Des Moines
A beloved district with 120+ shops, galleries and eateries. Perfect for antiques, art, gifts and all things local. Seasonal events and night markets bring it to life. Don’t miss Hinge for vintage and modern home goods, MoMere for eclectic gifts and Sisters for women’s fashion and accessories.

Learn more about shopping in Valley Junction.

Outlets of Des Moines

Altoona
A go-to for discounted deals on top brands, with over 50 stores in a walkable, open-air layout. Bonus: It’s just minutes from Adventureland and Prairie Meadows. (Pictured below.)

Learn more about the Outlets of Des Moines.

Ready to Shop Local in Greater Des Moines?

No matter your style Greater Des Moines has shopping districts worth exploring. Spend an afternoon (or a weekend!) discovering all the ways to shop small and support the local businesses that make each community in DSM shine.