Why DSM

Would it surprise you to learn that Greater Des Moines is the fastest growing metro in the Midwest? Iowa’s capital city is full of surprises, having transformed over the past 20 years into a vibrant, diverse community filled with world-class venues, attractions, and events. We love to play host and it shows, so here are just a few of the ways we go above and beyond.

FIRST-CLASS FACILITIES 

We have the downtown Iowa Events Center - a unique combination of three venues: Wells Fargo Arena, Hy-Vee Hall and Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center. Probably the only venue that has hosted presidential Caucuses, the American Cheese Society and Taylor Swift.  

All told, these clean, state-of-the-art facilities provide 226,000 square feet of total space, 150,000 square feet of exhibit space, 40 meeting rooms and an arena that seats over 17,000. All anchored by a 330-room Hilton convention hotel.  

Looking for something more unconventional? We can host your event in a garden, a museum, a farm, a fairground, a reality TV salvage shop or any number of architectural masterpieces. Whether hosting a group of four or 4,000, we have the unique space to meet your needs and create an authentically Des Moines experience, with ample amounts of Iowa Nice.

WE MAKE THINGS EASY 

When you’re here, accessibility and convenience is the name of the game. Located in the heart of the country, we’re a short road trip away from anywhere in the Midwest, and for frequent fliers, the Des Moines International Airport offers over 20 direct flights and is only 10 minutes from downtown. And with four miles of climate-controlled skywalks, the forecast calls for fun, no matter the season.   

Once you get here, you’ll have the option of over 2,800 hotel rooms downtown and 13,000 in Greater Des Moines, most offering airport shuttles. From big brands like Hilton and Marriott to charming boutiques, there are plenty of ways to check-in and plenty of things to check out. 

And then there’s our best-in-the-business event experience team, who go above and beyond to make your job easy, and your group’s stay memorable. From logistics and signage to transportation and event planning, the little touches are a big deal to us. We want you here and are excited to help curate the most authentic experience possible.

BIG CITY VIBES. BIG TIME RESUME. 

You might be wondering, but what is there to do in Des Moines? How about exploring the 4.4 acre, Instagram-worthy sculpture garden in what’s been called one of the “most artistic towns in America”? Or the Historic East Village neighborhood, dubbed the “closest thing to Brooklyn that Iowa has ever seen”? And with authentic eats like Steak de Burgo and crab rangoon pizza, along with bubbling breweries and nightlife, there’s always something exciting on tap in Des Moines. 

The best Farmer’s Market in the country. The most beautiful Capitol building. Off-Broadway shows like Hamilton. 800 miles of trails. A clean, safe, and walkable downtown. Once you’re here, the question goes from “what is there to do in Des Moines” to “How do I fit it all in?” 

And this isn’t our first rodeo (we’ve hosted plenty). From marquee events like the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament and IRONMAN to World Pork Expo and Bio World Congress, our resume speaks for itself. And our city says, “Bring it!”