Iowa State Fair

Each year, the Fair draws around 1 million visitors through its gates. Has a variety of things to see and do, much of it based around agriculture, the arts and food. At night, the beer tents and Grandstand come alive (past performances by Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, The Jackson Five, and Reba McEntire). Park (cheaper) near the capitol building and take an MTA bus over to the fairgrounds, or park closer in front yards of residents (more expensive).

Getting there: Fairgrounds
Hours: 10 days in Aug, Aug 13-23 in 2026
Price: $10, $6 for kids 60+, 5 and under free
Website: iowastatefair.org (opens in a new tab)

Directions Suggest a nearby place

Listing from Wikivoyage: Des Moines, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 28 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

Close by

Do
Sleepy Hollow Sports Park
Various sports throughout the summer and winter seasons. Summer options include batting cages, go-Karts, sand volleyball, golf, mini golf, driving range, and climbing wall. Winter sports include skiing, snowboarding, and tubing--lifts available for all. Rental equipment available.
Prices vary
Eat
Tursi's Latin King
The Latin King
One of the longest-standing restaurants in the area (since 1947), the Italian cuisine and beautiful restaurant setting will please anyone with a desire for a bit of originality. Very busy during the lunch hour, particularly when the state's legislative branch is in session. Small patio available. Full wine list.
$20
See
Capitol Building
One of the more popular state capitols to tour, it is easy to spot it with its sparkling 23-karat gold leaf dome and four-surrounding smaller copper-topped domes. Those wishing to see the inside from a bird's eye view will climb 298 steps before reaching the top from their start on the second floor. Historic flags, some hailing from the U.S. Civil War-era, are on display, and tour staff are available during all hours in which the capitol is open to visitors. Don't overlook the State Law Library, one of the most beautiful and ornate libraries in the world. Cafeteria is on the bottom floor.
Mon–Fri 8AM–4:45PM, Sat 8AM-3:45PM, closed SunFree
See
State Historical Society of Iowa Museum
Exhibits include a venture into Iowa's past when glaciers pushed their way through and mammoths roamed the plains, state's frontier and prairie past where kid-friendly activities such as pushing a plow or carrying buckets with a shoulder yoke can be had. Fossil, Native American, wildlife, and Iowa U.S. Civil War flags on display. Cafe Baratta's inside.
Tue-Sat 9AM-4:30PM, closed Mon, Sun and holidaysFree