East Village, Des Moines


Book Description

East Village was not always the fashionable destination it is today. When the first settlers arrived in 1843 on the muddy banks of the Des Moines River, it was in direct violation of a treaty with the local natives. The settlement grew so quickly that by 1855, the fledgling city had been selected to be the state capital, and the building was constructed in East Village. The next century saw rivalries with the western half of the city, the birth and battle of one of the city's largest red-light districts and the construction of some of Des Moines' most prized historic treasures. Historian Hope Mitchell investigates the people and events that shaped the culture and landscape of Des Moines' most dynamic neighborhood.




East Village


Book Description

A little neighborhood in the shadow of the state capitol, East Village in downtown Des Moines used the statehouse dome as a backdrop to establish itself in what was low, mostly unusable land along the Des Moines River. Just after the dawn of the 20th century, the neighborhood burgeoned with blue-collar industry and corner stores, while boasting the convenient use of railroads for industrial development and travel. It seemed to be in competition with the west side, where the insurance industry and wealthy neighborhoods blossomed on high ground. By midcentury, though, East Village suffered as a mobile population chose suburban shopping malls over traditional mom-and-pops. By 1990, buildings were in disrepair, and crime was increasing. A group of dedicated individuals came together and, with assistance and cooperation from the city, brought East Village back into focus, with a clear urban identity that sparked a renewed sense of pride.




Insiders' Guide® to Des Moines


Book Description

A first edition, Insiders' Guide to Des Moines is the essential source for in-depth travel and relocation information to Iowa's capital. Written by a local (and true insider), this guide offers a personal and practical perspective of Des Moines and its surrounding environs.




100 Things to Do in Des Moines Before You Die


Book Description

Nestled smack dab in the center of the Midwest where two of the longest interstates in America meet sits Des Moines. Iowa’s capital city offers a small town feel with big city fun, with a great food scene, local breweries that welcome your four-legged friends, miles of bike trails with beautiful scenery, and tons of art and history. 100 Things to Do in Des Moines Before You Die will help guide you to all the fun places to play, explore, learn, and eat in this community-driven city. Skate around at the largest open skatepark in the nation. Take a tour of the only five-domed capitol in the United States. Feast on steak at a Des Moines chophouse, but don’t forget to kick off your day with a hearty breakfast, where you might just run into Aquaman. Find the best view of the city or navigate miles of the city through temperature-controlled skywalks. Pet an alpaca, then challenge yourself at the state’s largest indoor climbing facility. Des Moines–raised writer Erin Huiatt shares incredible places to explore in 100 Things to Do in Des Moines Before You Die. Pick an itinerary or create your own using this book full of fun ways to entertain yourself, friends, and families.




East Village


Book Description




Wildland Sentinel


Book Description

In Wildland Sentinel, Erika Billerbeck takes readers along for the ride as she and her colleagues sift through poaching investigations, chase down sex offenders in state parks, search for fugitives in wildlife areas, haul drunk boaters to jail, perform body recoveries, and face the chaos that comes with disaster response.




City Maps Des Moines Iowa, USA


Book Description

City Maps Des Moines Iowa, USA is an easy to use small pocket book filled with all you need for your stay in the big city. Attractions, pubs, bars, restaurants, museums, convenience stores, clothing stores, shopping centers, marketplaces, police, emergency facilities are only some of the places you will find in this map. This collection of maps is up to date with the latest developments of the city as of 2017. We hope you let this map be part of yet another fun Des Moines adventure :)




East Village


Book Description




Des Moines Architecture & Design


Book Description

Des Moines boasts a remarkable architectural portfolio rich in depth and quality. The town drew wide attention in the nineteenth century with structures like the Iowa State Capitol and the Terrace Hill mansion. Des Moines embraced the City Beautiful movement in the twentieth century and became home to well-known work by Eliel and Eero Saarinen, notably the city's innovative Art Center. A contemporary architectural renaissance produced lauded landmarks like the Meredith Headquarters, the Des Moines Public Library and the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Author Jay Pridmore crafts an illustrated survey of the architecture and design of Iowa's largest city.




Iowa's Best: 365 Unique Adventures


Book Description

UPDATED AND EXPANDED FOR 2025-2026! Iowa...a state filled with exciting adventures, heartwarming culture, and unforgettable experiences! Embark on a year-long journey through the diverse landscape and rich culture of the Hawkeye State with "Iowa's Best: 365 Unique Adventures - The Essential Guide to Unforgettable Experiences in the Hawkeye State (2025-2026 Edition)". From the rolling farmland to vibrant cityscapes, Iowa has a unique adventure waiting for you every day of the year. This meticulously curated guide invites you to explore Iowa like never before. Immerse yourself in essential experiences, delve into cultural treasures, find fun for the whole family, discover urban hotspots, bask in natural beauty, relish culinary delights, and indulge in a variety of activities that make Iowa truly special. Organized into distinct categories such as "Nature and Wildlife Adventures," "Outdoor Adventures," "Seasonal Adventures," "Culinary Adventures," and "Adventures at Quirky Roadside Attractions," this guide ensures that you have a trove of activities to choose from based on your interest. Also included are invaluable chapters on "Travel Basics," "Accommodation Suggestions," "Transportation," "Local Cuisine," and "Additional Resources," providing practical information to help you plan your journey more effectively. Each activity is presented with a detailed description, necessary information, insider tips, and reasons why it will make your Iowa trip memorable. No two adventures are the same - you're assured a unique experience each day, whether it's exploring a historic landmark, taking part in a local festival, or relaxing in a nature retreat. "Iowa's Best: 365 Unique Adventures" is not just a travel guide, it's your companion in discovering the hidden gems and local favorites that encapsulate Iowa's charm and spirit. Join us on this journey through the heartland of America and create your own unforgettable experiences in Iowa. So whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, a foodie, or a family on vacation, make the most of your Iowa adventure with this essential guide. Explore, experience, and enjoy Iowa in 365 unique ways!