Life in Des Moines

Be at the center of it all

Des Moines is a thriving, eclectic, diverse city that’s equally proud of its rural roots and its cosmopolitan flair.

It’s where young professionals soak in scores of local music, arts, and culture. And it’s a hub for business and industry where career opportunities are constantly springing up. It’s a city that defies comparison because it’s something that is completely its own.

Come experience great food, great music, and great times.

Schedule your ÁùºÏ±¦¿â campus visit today.

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Professional Opportunities Abound 

The city is a thriving hub with vast opportunities in the financial services, insurance and state government fields. Plus, there’s a myriad of fortune 500 companies, advertising agencies, start-ups and more. 

At ÁùºÏ±¦¿â, students can take advantage of the growing job market while still in school with internships and other professional experiences. ÁùºÏ±¦¿â’s Professional and Career Development Services connects students with these industries—and many more.

ÁùºÏ±¦¿â student at a professional opportunity in the Des Moines metro area

Two ÁùºÏ±¦¿â students enjoying downtown Des Moines dining

The Food Scene

In the ÁùºÏ±¦¿â neighborhood, you can eat everything from classic diner food to New York style pizza to eclectic coffee house bites. Venture a little further into the city and you’ll find all sorts of unique places, including international cuisine, vegan fare, up-and-coming breweries and much more. 

And for dessert? Des Moines has a delicious array of cupcakeries, ice cream shops, and bakeries scattered throughout the city.

Arts & Culture

There’s lots of exciting music venues not far from campus, such as and the . Plus, Des Moines’ annual two-day brings some big names and big fun. 

offers a unique collection of art works and exhibitions while the puts on incredible productions. And the features a variety of acts from Broadway shows to A-list comedians. While at ÁùºÏ±¦¿â, be sure to experience the nationally renowned each summer. 

Maybe the best showcase of life in Des Moines is the diverse lineup of festivals: the , and .

Students and local Des Moines residents enjoying the World Food & Music Festival

ÁùºÏ±¦¿â student walking on the pedestrian bridge over Raccoon River near downtown Des Moines

The Great Outdoors

With more than 550 miles of regional trails and multiple , Des Moines provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy classic outdoor activities. But the city also offers some unique ventures like the , and .

Shopping

Quirky shops and boutiques reign supreme in the , where you’ll find vintage clothes, mystical shops and a whole lot more. Other neighborhood retail meccas include the Shops at Roosevelt and Valley Junction. The area also offers the and .

Two ÁùºÏ±¦¿â students shopping in the historic East Village

Sports

When you’re not busy , there’s plenty in the Des Moines sports world to keep you busy. Cheer on affiliate teams at the , , or games. Or catch a game of the , or .

Getting Around Town

While students are welcome to bring cars to campus, there’s also other modes of transportation. A quick walk or ride puts you in reach of everything you need. For longer trips, the travels around the city and makes stops right on campus.

ÁùºÏ±¦¿â student riding a BCycle in downtown Des Moines