View source for Des Moines

{{Infobox settlement
 | name               = Des Moines
 | official_name      = City of Des Moines
 | settlement_type    = Capital city
 | image_skyline      =
 | image_caption      = Downtown Des Moines
 | subdivision_name1  = Iowa
 | subdivision_name   = United States
 | established_date   = 1851
 | population_total   = 215,000
 | area_total_km2     = 238
 | timezone           = Central (CST/CDT)
 | postal_code        = 50301–50395
 | area_code          = 515
}}
'''Des Moines''' is the capital and most populous city of [[Iowa]]. Located in the central part of the state, it is a major hub for insurance, finance, and U.S. presidential politics. The city combines modern urban development with Midwestern values and charm.

== Overview ==

* Capital of Iowa since 1857
* Known for hosting the '''Iowa caucuses''', which play a crucial role in U.S. presidential elections
* Located along the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers

== Landmarks and Attractions ==

* Iowa State Capitol – with a gold dome and panoramic city views
* Pappajohn Sculpture Park
* Des Moines Art Center
* Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
* Science Center of Iowa
* Principal Park – home to the Iowa Cubs (minor league baseball)

== Economy ==

Des Moines is a major national hub for:
* '''Insurance and financial services''' – headquarters of Principal Financial Group, EMC, and more
* '''Government and education'''
* '''Healthcare and logistics'''
* '''Tech startups and data centers'''

== Culture and Lifestyle ==

* Vibrant downtown with local breweries, restaurants, and farmers’ markets
* Hosts the Des Moines Arts Festival, Iowa State Fair, and 80/35 Music Festival
* Strong cycling culture, parks, and greenbelt trails
* Rapid urban revitalization with a growing young professional population

== Education and Research ==

* Drake University – a private liberal arts and law school
* Des Moines University – medical and health sciences
* Several public and private K-12 school systems

== Transportation ==

* Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
* DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) buses
* Interstate highways I-35 and I-80 pass through the city

== Fun Facts ==

* "Des Moines" comes from French meaning “of the monks,” likely referencing early missionaries
* Frequently ranked among the best places to live and work in the U.S.
* The gold leaf on the state capitol dome is real 23-karat gold

== See Also ==
* [[Iowa]]
* [[Midwestern States]]
* [[United States Capitals]]
* [[United States Cities]]