Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines Playhouse

The Playhouse presents 12-14 musicals, comedies, dramas and family shows each year.

Civic Center

Blank Park Zoo

Beautifully-landscaped 22-acre zoological park featuring naturalistic exhibits with more than 800 animals from five continents, including lions, tigers, sea lions, snow leopards, giraffe. Train ride, camel ride, gift shop and cafe. Discovery Center includes Iowa'

Terrace Hill

This opulent 1869 Victorian mansion, a National Historic Landmark and home of Iowa's governor, was built by Iowa's first millionaire, Benjamin F. Allen. Restored to the late 1800s period, it overlooks downtown Des Moines and is situated on eight acres with a recreated Victorian formal garden.

Salisbury House

This 42-room mansion was modeled after the King's House in Salisbury, England. Built in the 1920s by the Weeks family, the home contains authentic 16th century English oak, extensive flintwork and rafters dating to Shakespeare'