Des Moines, Iowa

Heritage Carousel of Des Moines

Thirty animals and two wheelchair-accessible chariots turn to the music of a Stinson band organ on this colorful wooden carousel. Located in a city park near the Des Moines River, the carousel features handpainted scenes of Des Moines landmarks.

Des Moines Symphony

Basilica of St. John

Designated a basilica in 1989. Northern Italian/Lombardy Romanesque style, with gold-leaf coffered ceilings and 46 stained-glass windows, including a 15-foot Munich rose window. Ornate plaster and travertine marble interior.

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'

Polk County Heritage Gallery