Greater Des Moines Shopping
Catch a great deal at one of Greater Des Moines’ many shopping districts. Greater Des Moines is a centrally-located shopping destination with a blend of major, national retailers and unique, local boutiques. With several options right off the interstate, shopping in Des Moines is convenient, affordable and sure to result in some amazing finds. Did you know Iowa has a tax-free shopping holiday? Enjoy tax free shopping at Greater Des Moines retailers the first Friday and Saturday each August.
Here are a few shopping options to add to your list:
Historic East Village
Historic East Village is the eclectic east side of downtown Des Moines. This pedestrian-friendly neighborhood features dozens of local shops and boutiques including the nationally-known Raygun – made famous for their edgy t-shirts including slogans like “Des Moines: French for The Moines” and “Des Moines: Hell Yes”, as well as Sticks, a shop that features some of the most well-known art in Des Moines. Walkable from Court Avenue, Historic East Village is home to several locally-owned Des Moines restaurants and breweries. After dinner at HoQ, pop over to the Iowa Taproom to sample from over 100 Iowa beers on tap or Molly’s Cupcakes for a sweet end to your night.
Historic Valley Junction
Just minutes from downtown in West Des Moines, Historic Valley Junction is a charming, renovated railroad district with a collection of more than 120 retail businesses, including art galleries, fashion boutiques, antique shops, restaurants and specialty stores. Wrap up a day of shopping with pizza from Bix & Co. or a slice of fudge from The Heart of Iowa Marketplace.
Jordan Creek Town Center
Located right off Interstate 80 in West Des Moines, Jordan Creek Town Center is a huge retail, dining and entertainment destination featuring a two-level enclosed shopping mall with over 100 retailers, a movie theater and restaurants. At Jordan Creek, you can find major retailers, department stores and dining options to fit every budget. Grab brunch at HomeGrown just down the road or opt for a fine-dining experience at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.
Uptown Ankeny
Who doesn’t love a small town, main street vibe? Uptown Ankeny is home to that and so much more. This neighborhood is quaint, friendly, and offers plenty of shops to fill your afternoon. Grab a bouquet at Carmen's Flowers, get a permanent piece of jewelry at Fuzed, or find a resale item you can’t live without at Real Deals.
Merle Hay Mall
Merle Hay Mall is Iowa’s first enclosed shopping mall with 1.2 million square feet of retail space featuring Target, Old Navy, Kohl’s and Ross. Take a break from shopping at the Merle Hay Mall food court, which features several ethnic food options.
Outlets of Des Moines
The only outlet mall in Greater Des Moines, Outlets of Des Moines is an open-air shopping destination conveniently located at the Interstate 80 and US-65 interchange in Altoona. Shop the biggest names in fashion including Michael Kors, J.Crew Factory, kate spade new york, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Under Armour Factory House. Blend shopping with thrill-seeking by stopping at Adventureland Park and Adventure Bay or Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Casino, and Hotel, both located minutes away.
Southridge Mall
As the only enclosed shopping center serving the south side of Des Moines, Southridge Mall features a range of retailers including Foot Locker, Marshalls, Party City and Target. The Southridge 12 Theaters, an AMC Classic Theater, is located on the south-east side of the mall.
Valley West Mall
A premier shopping center located right off Interstate 235 in West Des Moines, Valley West Mall offers two department stores and dozens of nationally-known retailers including Von Maur, Eddie Bauer, Banana Republic and Victoria’s Secret. Between shops, stop at Chocolaterie Stam for a sweet pick-me-up.
West Glen Town Center
Minutes away from Jordan Creek Town Center, West Glen Town Center offers a blend of health and beauty services, unique dining and lively nightlife. This outdoor shopping center is perfect for a date night or a quick stop at one of their boutiques for a last-minute gift.
