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Catch what you’ve been missing and start planning your next trip to Greater Des Moines. In Iowa’s capital city and its surrounding communities you can enjoy big amenities in a safe and accessible location. Greater Des Moines provides all the adventure and reward without the high cost. Full of unexpected delight, catch one of our nationally recognized festivals or enjoy dishes created by a James Beard nominated chef. Looking to hit a show or a sporting event? The options are endless. We can’t wait to show off our surprising destination.

Let us tell you what to expect, where to go and how to get around. Find a local recommendation on the best places to eat and unique itineraries . Or browse a list of local deals and attractions . Discover why visitors and locals love Des Moines!

“It’s the best kept secret in the country.”

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12 Best Things to do in Des Moines, Iowa

Both Iowa’s capital and largest city, Des Moines is a fantastic place to visit. Set in the center of the state, it lies at the spot where the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers meet with plenty of pretty parks, gardens and green outdoor spaces dotted about its sprawling confines.

As it is one of the most important centers of commerce and culture in the Midwest, the city is home many headquarters of large corporations, but there are also plenty of things to do in Des Moines. The region’s rich agricultural heritage is proudly on display at, not only its bustling farmers’ market and Living History Farms, but at the annual Iowa State Fair too.

An intriguing mix of old and new, city and countryside, Des Moines is definitely well worth visiting when in Iowa and the Midwest.

12. State Historical Museum

Offering a fascinating insight into the history, culture and nature of Iowa is the excellent State Historical Museum. Located at the foot of the grand Capitol Building, it is packed with interesting artifacts and exhibits on Native Americans and early settlers, cycling, cinema and the Civil War.

Now one of the most important and impressive museums in the state, it started life as a small historical society back in 1857. Since those early days, its collection has swelled to over 80,000 objects that cover more than 13,000 years of Iowa’s past, focusing on influential people and places. As well as innumerable exhibits, its granite and glass building has a cafe, and tours, talks and temporary exhibitions regularly take place.

11. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden lies on the east bank of the wide river that courses its way through town. Home to colorful plants, flowers, trees and shrubs, it is a delight to stroll around with amazing artworks and greenhouses dotted here and there.

Since being established in 1939, its gorgeous gardens have grown considerably. Scenic sections dedicated to cactuses and succulents are now found alongside beautiful bonsais, orchids and water features.

Aside from exploring its domed conservatory, which houses exotic plants, palm trees and a waterfall, one of the garden’s main highlights is strolling along the shady Ruan Allee promenade. In addition, intriguing outdoor sculptures can also be spotted amidst its lovingly landscaped lawns and blooming flowerbeds.

10. Blank Park Zoo

Set just fifteen minutes’ drive south of the center, Blank Park Zoo covers a huge area with countless animal exhibits, attractions and enclosures encompassed within its confines. Long a firm favorite with families, it was first opened in 1966 and has inspired an appreciation and understanding of the natural world ever since.

The only accredited zoo in the state, it now boasts more than 1,500 mammals, birds and reptiles that represent over 100 different species. Visitors can see majestic African lions and Amur tigers prowling about next to rhinos, giraffes and zebras, with red pandas and penguins also on show.

Besides exploring its aviary, aquarium and discovery center, young ones can enjoy the Kids’ Kingdom where they can stroke animals, play on slides and even dig for fossils.

9. Salisbury House

Exhibiting some exquisite architecture, the stately Salisbury House is situated in a quiet neighborhood just west of downtown Des Moines. Inside the massive mansion, guests can explore dozens of decadently decorated rooms, while the pretty property also has immaculately manicured grounds and gardens to walk around.

Built between 1923 and 1928 for the wealthy cosmetic magnate Carl Weeks and his wife, the huge historic home is modeled on the refined King’s House in Salisbury, England. Featuring fine Gothic, Tudor and Carolean features, the beautiful building has over forty rooms with centuries-old antiques and incredible artworks.

After having taken in the delightful ornamentation of its elegant library and concert hall, you can then venture outside and enjoy its ornate botanic garden.

8. Des Moines Art Center

Just a stone’s throw from the expansive estate is another attraction that is well worth visiting if you are into art and architecture: the brilliant Des Moines Art Center. In contrast to Salisbury House, its complex showcases a striking mix of Art Deco, Art Nouveau and Modernist styles while its sizeable collection covers a wide range of artistic movements and mediums.

Originally opened in 1948, the magnificent museum now occupies a large site and also operates the phenomenally popular Pappajohn Sculpture Park in downtown. While renowned architects, such as I.M. Pei and Richard Meier, contributed to its arresting design, masterpieces by Matisse, Monet and O’Keeffe among others can be enjoyed in its light and airy galleries.

With talks, workshops and film festivals all regularly taking place, the Des Moines Art Center is not to be missed when in town.

7. Principal Park

If instead of museums and gardens it is thrilling sporting spectacles that you are after, then Principal Park is definitely the place to go. Home to minor league baseball’s Iowa Cubs, the atmospheric yet intimate stadium lies where the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers meet in the center of the city.

Regularly ranked among the best minor league ballparks in the nation, it was built in 1992 with the small stadium having undergone numerous renovations and expansions since then. Thanks to their fanatic fans, the Iowa Cubs – the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs – are loads of fun to watch with all of Principal Park’s seats and suites offering up superb views over the field.

6. Living History Farms

Located just fifteen minutes’ drive west of downtown you can find the fascinating Living History Farms. At the enormous interactive open-air museum, visitors can learn all about Iowa’s agricultural history with its informative displays, live demonstrations and costumed interpreters really bringing the recreated farms, shops and towns back to life.

Unfortunately bisected by the busy Interstate 35/80, the otherwise excellent museum was founded in 1970 with its four sites covering the last 300 years of the state’s rural history.

As well as a 1700 Ioway Indian Farm and a 1850 Pioneer Farm, there is the bustling frontier town of Walnut Hill to check out that shows what life was like in 1876. To top it all off, the 1900 Horse-Powered Farm highlights the impact the Industrial Revolution and modern machinery had on traditional farm life.

5. Gray’s Lake Park

Although it is set just five minutes southwest of the center, the gorgeous Gray’s Lake Park feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Des Moines. Very popular with both locals and tourists alike, it has all kinds of outdoor activities with the city’s sparkling skyline to be spotted far off in the distance.

Aside from walking, running and cycling along the loop trail that lines its shores, visitors can also kayak, canoe and paddleboard about the large lake’s tranquil waters.

In addition, there are park benches, picnic areas and playgrounds to make use of while swimming can be enjoyed at its small beach. At night, the Kruidenier Trail Pedestrian Bridge makes for a fine sight as its multi-colored lights and glass panels stand out delightfully against the dark.

4. Downtown Farmers Market

The Downtown Farmers Market is definitely the best place to head in town if you are after fresh produce, artisanal food and delicious baked goods. A very colorful and chaotic affair, it is held every Saturday morning from the start of May through to the end of October with its endless stands and stalls attracting huge crowds each time.

Since 1975, the lively market has connected the state’s rural and urban communities with more than 300 vendors now selling their wares at its downtown site. Next to butchers and bakers are hot coffee stands and food trucks while stalls piled high with fresh fruit and veg produced by local farmers are everywhere you look.

Adding to the ambience are its live musicians and street performers with handmade arts and crafts also to be found on sale at the market.

3. Pappajohn Sculpture Park

One of the most unique and interesting places to visit in Des Moines is the picturesque Pappajohn Sculpture Park, which lies just to the west of the center. Part of Western Gateway Park, it has almost thirty stupendous sculptures to enjoy with their striking shapes, sizes and silhouettes making for some fantastic photos with the city’s skyline behind them.

Considered to be one of the most significant collections of outdoor sculptures in the country, it was opened in 2009 and now boasts iconic works by esteemed artists from all around the world. As well as thought-provoking pieces by Ai Weiwei and Barry Flanagan, one of its main highlights is Jaume Plensa’s Nomade.

Made out of thousands of white steel letters, the hollow human form explores and symbolises communication between individuals and cultures with visitors able to enter the sculpture and snap photos from inside.

2. Capitol Building

Yet another of the city’s many artistic and architectural marvels is the breathtaking Capitol Building to the east of the river that acts as the seat of Iowa’s government. Perched atop a hill overlooking downtown, it showcases remarkable Renaissance Revival-style architecture with its glittering golden dome visible for miles around.

One of Des Moines’ standout symbols and sights, it was built between 1871 and 1886 with its grand design projecting strength, dignity and refinement. The only five-domed capitol in the States, it also sports a pretty portico and sturdy Corinthian columns while its enormous yet elegant interior is clad in mahogany, marble and murals.

On tours around the Capitol, guests can learn about its past and see fine carvings and artworks in its chambers, halls and offices while marvelous monuments and memorials dot the grounds around it.

1. Iowa State Fairgrounds

Every August, Des Moines welcomes over a million visitors to the city, who come to enjoy the exciting shows, rides and competitions of the Iowa State Fair. Since 1886, it has been held on the east side of town with the annual event now being one of the oldest, largest and most renowned agricultural and industrial expositions in the country.

While the fun-filled fair celebrates the Midwestern state’s rich agricultural heritage through thrilling contests, parades and carnival rides, the Iowa State Fairgrounds also host other events during the year.

These include everything from auto shows and antiques markets to livestock exhibitions and concerts, with something of interest always going on in its historic barns and state-of-the-art exhibition centers.

Map of Things to do in Des Moines

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Map for Tour

Old downtown des moines, tour description.

Explore the history of downtown Des Moines, an area

considered today's city center as much as it was in pioneering days.

Locations for Tour

Baker barb wire vs. knights of labor, demoine house, george conradi's saloon, jewett typewriter company, des moines saddlery building, romano fruit stand, iowa bystander, hierb's saloon, younkers department store, harbach lofts, aulmann's brewery, white star laundry, amend's meats, history of the rowat cut stone co., tour postscript.

Things to Do in Des Moines, IA - Des Moines Attractions

Things to do in des moines, explore popular experiences, tours in and around des moines.

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Personal Guided Tour of the Covered Bridges of Madison County

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Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Des Moines

Other Top Attractions around Des Moines

What travelers are saying

• Capitol Building
• Iowa State Fairgrounds
• Blank Park Zoo
• Gray's Lake Park
• Pappajohn Sculpture Park
• Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
• Clive Greenbelt Trail
• Downtown Farmers Market

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Des Moines Food Tour - Secret Food Tours

Des Moines, Iowa is a hidden gem for food enthusiasts, and embarking on a Des Moines Food Tour is a delectable adventure waiting to be savored. This vibrant city has transformed into a culinary haven, earning its rightful place on the foodie map.

Firstly, Des Moines boasts a rich agricultural heritage, with a plethora of locally sourced ingredients. From farm-to-table restaurants to bustling farmers' markets, the city celebrates fresh, seasonal, and sustainable cuisine. The keyword "Des Moines Food Tours" unlocks a world of diverse flavors.

The city's dining scene is an eclectic mix of traditional American fare and international cuisines. You can savor mouthwatering Iowa pork tenderloin sandwiches or explore global tastes at authentic Thai, Italian, or Mexican eateries. Des Moines proudly hosts food festivals, celebrating everything from BBQ to vegan delights, making it a year-round culinary destination.

One highlight of Des Moines' food culture is its craft beer and cocktail scene. Local breweries and distilleries offer unique brews and spirits to pair with your meals, ensuring a memorable gastronomic experience.

In conclusion, Des Moines, Iowa is a foodie paradise that invites you to indulge in its culinary delights. The keyword "Des Moines Food Tours" promises a journey through diverse tastes and culinary innovation, making it a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for exceptional food and drink. Come hungry and leave with a satisfied palate and unforgettable memories.

• Destinations
• Group & Private Tours
• San Sebastián
• New York City
• Rio de Janerio

Architecture on the Move: IAF’s Guided Walking Tours of Downtown Des Moines

2024 Architectural Walking Tours of Downtown Des Moines

Register on   Eventbrite $20 per person

May 10, June 14, July 12, August 9, September 13, October 4

Make your reservations for in-person architect-guided walking tours of downtown Des Moines! These tours provide an opportunity for local residents and visitors alike to appreciate the rich architectural heritage of Iowa’s capital city. 

Tours cover both contemporary and historic architecture. You will learn about architectural detail, style and elements, along with intriguing facts and the historical significance of the buildings that shape the downtown skyline. 

Tours leave from the Iowa Center for Architecture, 400 Locust Street, Suite 100, in Capital Square. Sign up in the atrium area. Check-in is between 5 and 5:30 PM.

Four different tour routes are offered:

• North: Learn insight into Des Moines’ more contemporary architecture, including the Catholic Pastoral Center, AEG’s headquarters, Principal’s corporate campus, and the world-famous architects, such as Mies van der Rohe and Helmut Jahn, who have left their mark here.
• South: Walk through the historic Court Avenue and Warehouse District and learn about the history and future of this exciting entertainment and downtown living area. Includes World Food Prize Building, Saddlery Building, Rock Island Depot, Hawkeye Insurance and more.
• East: Enjoy a stroll through Des Moines’ revitalized East Village. Highlights include background on the Civic Center Historic District, City Beautiful Movement, the Riverwalk’s public buildings, Dilley Manufacturing (now Iowa Taproom) and new projects like the new mass timber building, 111 E Grand.
• West: This tour showcases some of Des Moines’ older, stately buildings such as the Temple for the Performing Arts and Clemens Building and Hotel Fort Des Moines, some of our most significant skyscrapers and new developments including EMC Highrise, Wells Fargo Financial, Nationwide and the Des Moines Central Library.

Tours are guided by architects and historians and are not scripted, so each tour is unique. Tours typically last 90 minutes and are approximately 14 city blocks in length. Comfortable shoes are a must. Each tour is $20.00 per person.  Tickets can be purchased in advance on Eventbrite . A limited number of tickets are available at the door, with cash or check accepted. If you have questions, email the Iowa Architectural Foundation at [email protected] .

A Skywalk tour will be offered in case of inclement weather including rain and excessive heat. There are no refunds, but if you alert us in advance that you are unable to attend, you will be re-scheduled for another date. Or you may also give your ticket to someone else. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

All proceeds benefit the Iowa Architectural Foundation’s public educational programs.

How Do I Visit the Iowa State Capitol?

The Iowa State Capitol and its golden dome have stood as a shining symbol of Iowa government and politics since its completion in 1886. The Capitol welcomed nearly 78,000 visitors from across the state, nation, and world last year. Formal and self-guided tours are available at no charge.  

The Iowa State Capitol is open Monday through Saturday for self guided tours or guided tours for groups of 10 or more.

Tours of the Capital

8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (building locks at 4:45 p.m.)

Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

If you have ten or more people in your group you can call us, or complete a  Tour Request , for a guided tour. Smaller groups should call 515.281.5591. Tours can be scheduled Monday through Saturday.

Location - Address: 1007 East Grand Avenue Des Moines, Iowa 50319

Video and pictorial tours of the capitol and capitol grounds.

You can visit the Capital virtually by looking at our video and pictorial tours of the Capital and Capital grounds.

Related Agency - Iowa Legislature

Address:  State Capitol, 1007 E Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50319

Phone:  (515) 281-5129

Related Links

Iowa state capitol visitor guide, capitol tours and resources, capitol complex events, parking map, driving directions, iowa legislature.

April 2, 2020

• Attractions and Events
• Outdoor Rec and Trails
• Quality of Life

Claudia Cackler

Take a Self-Guided Architectural Tour of Downtown DSM

If you are looking for something to do on these beautiful spring days and, at the same time, continue to operate within the bounds of social distancing, Iowa Architectural Foundation has a great idea for you and your family! Many of you architectural enthusiasts have joined us in the past for our popular Architecture on the Move summer walking tours. Others have organized special tours for your company or family. Those tours are personally guided by architects or historians.

IAF Walking Tour App

We have good news for you! During this period of isolation, you don’t have to give up your architectural tours! And if you’ve never been on one, now is your chance! You can take five different tours with our Walking Tour App , which is essentially the same as the guided tours — but you can do it on your own. All you have to do is follow this link to access the app from your smartphone:

iowaarchfoundation.org/IAFTours (Be sure to use a capital T!)

You can access the tours by direction or by building. Included are East, South, West, North and Western Gateway tours. Or, if you are standing by a building and want to know more about it, click on your location on the app map, and the building's profile will pop up with a photo and audio description generously donated by KFMG founder, Ron Sorenson. Workiva's team of volunteers created the app for IAF at a recent DSM Hackathon.

Create an App Shortcut

If you want to take it a step further, you can create a shortcut on your phone for the app. That way you’ll have it easily accessible at all times.

• Click the Share button at the bottom of the screen.
• Click the Add to Home Screen button.
• Click Add in the top-right corner.

The tours cover both contemporary and historic architecture and provide an opportunity for local residents and visitors to appreciate the rich architectural heritage of Iowa’s capital city. Downtown Des Moines (DSM) boasts a remarkable architectural portfolio, rich in depth and quality. As one of our guides says “We punch way above our weight class.” We have impressive skyscrapers by local and national architects, buildings by the world’s most important Twentieth Century architects and public art by internationally celebrated artists.

DSM Architecture

Looking at our city’s important architecture, the name Proudfoot and Bird or Proudfoot Bird Rawson comes up again and again, and no firm shaped the face of our capital city more than they did . Now known as BBS Architects + Engineers , they are celebrating their 125th year in operation. Included in their portfolio are the Polk County Court House, the buildings along “Auto Row” on Locust Street, the U.S. Bank Building and the Temple for the Performing Arts. Also designed by these architects and Neuman Construction are the 14-story Des Moines Building, which is on the cutting edge of Art Moderne, and the building it faces across the street, built fewer than 10 years before, the Equitable Building. The two buildings could not be more different. This 19-story skyscraper was for many years Iowa’s tallest building. What I love about this building is the beautiful water tower, its Gothic revival detail and frivolous gnome corbels.

Downtown DSM has its own building by famed architect, Daniel Burnham, whom you may remember from the riveting book Devil in the White City . That would be the Fleming Building. And we are further connected to Burnham and Chicago by our adoption of The City Beautiful Movement philosophy. This was a movement inspired by Chicago’s 1893 World Columbian Exhibition which led the efforts to beautify and make noble America’s cities. Influenced by this movement, the Des Moines Women’s Club and other civic-minded organizations began clamoring for improvements along the river. They replaced meat packing and houses of ill repute with what we experience now as a series of beautiful civic buildings including City Hall, the World Food Prize and the Armory Building along the Principal River Walk.

Fast forward to the Mid 20th Century, when notable national firms made their mark on the city. The Des Moines Art Center hired Eliel Saarinen in the 1940s to design the first section of a multi-phased arts building to which I.M Pei and Richard Meier would later design additions. Drake University engaged his son, Eero Saarinen, to prepare a campus plan and design several academic and residential buildings.

In the 1960s, Bauhaus master architect, Mies van der Rohe, made his Modernist mark on DSM with two buildings. Home Federal Savings and Loan, preserved by the graces of the Catholic Pastoral Center, has Mies’ signature applied I-beams, travertine marble and granite pavers. Soon afterwards, Mies designed Meredith Hall for Drake University’s School of Journalism.

In 1962, American Republic Insurance Company and Watson Powell turned to Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) to design a new headquarters. This project is the only one to receive two AIA NATIONAL design awards — one when it was built, and another two years ago when it was restored by BNIM architects.

Principal Financial Group has been a major patron of architecture beginning with its 1939 building, which Architectural Record named “The Building of the Decade.” As the company grew, so did their campus, and in 1992, Helmut Jahn of Chicago designed the Z Building on Seventh Street. Recently Principal 1 has undergone a major re-design by OPN Architects.

The most recent addition to Downtown DSM’s “showcase of architecture” is the Krause Gateway Center, designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano. “Lightness, simplicity and openness are the main concepts expressed in the design.

As you can see there are many reasons to appreciate Downtown DSM’s architecture. While you are out, if you come across a building that needs a better photo within the app, please send us one at [email protected] and we’ll credit you if we use it. One caveat, the audio may not match up with the written profile. The cityscape is changing so quickly that just like a travel guide, it’s hard to keep it up to date. But you will still have an enjoyable tour. Be sure to follow IAF on Facebook and let us know how your tour went, as well as any if there are any additions you would like to see. Once we are out of isolation, many of our events, which are now on hold, will start up again and we hope to see you there!

The Iowa Architectural Foundation’s mission is to inspire an appreciation of architecture and design through educational programming for adults and children. IAF is? a non-profit charitable organization, depending on donations and fees for support. IAF provides a new lens for viewing and understanding the built world, and encourages citizens to engage in design issues and consider high standards as they build and shape their communities.

You can count on The Partnership to continue to share accurate and fact-based updates as well. See more on COVID-19 here .

Find these tips useful? Find more business tools and information by visiting the Business Resources page .

Claudia Cackler is executive director of the Iowa Architectural Foundation. With 25+ years in public relations, nonprofit management and development, Claudia has worked with talented teams at Twin Cities Public Television, AIA Iowa, The Nature Conservancy, Salisbury House, Sherman Hill Association and Drake University.

• #DSMstrong , Attractions and Events , Downtown , Outdoor Rec and Trails , Quality of Life

Special Guest Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Evening

• Tuesday | Nov. 19 , 2024 8:00 PM Buy Tickets

With a career spanning nearly five decades, the 2013 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees have sold more than 35 million albums worldwide, with 20 Top 40 singles to their name. HEART will be performing their catalog of global chart-topping classic hits including “Magic Man”, “Barracuda”, “Crazy on You” and “These Dreams” . The current lineup of HEART features Nancy Wilson (rhythm, lead and acoustic guitar, backing and lead vocals), Ann Wilson (lead vocals and flute), Ryan Wariner (lead and rhythm guitar), Ryan Waters (guitars), Paul Moak (guitars, keyboards and backing vocals), Tony Lucido (bass and backing vocals) and Sean T Lane (drums and bike). 

"We’re so excited to announce more tour dates," Heart’s Ann Wilson said. “The exceptional talent of the band – Ryan, Ryan, Paul, Tony and Sean – brings a whole new level of energy to Heart’s live performance”.

Nancy Wilson shared, “I am incredibly proud of the show that we have crafted and am looking forward to reconnecting with even more fans. We can’t wait to share our music with everyone and celebrate the big electric energy of a completely live on the spot rock show.”

The son of late Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, Jason Bonham expertly performs the band’s catalog with Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening , including “ Whole Lotta Love”, “Black Dog” and “Immigrant Song” .

Related Links

• Official Website for Heart
• Official Website for Jason Bonham

Reserve Your Parking Spot

Click here  to reserve your parking spot through ParkMobile. Pre-purchased parking spots are available until Monday, November 18 at 7:00pm or until inventory is exhausted.

'Raise Your Glass' and get tickets when Pink brings her 2024 tour to Des Moines this fall

Pink is giving you a reason to go to the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines this October.

The pop singer-songwriter announced she is adding the Des Moines stop on Oct. 24 as part of her North American tour “Trustfall.”

Since the early 2000s, the three-time Grammy winner has been releasing hit after hit, from “Get the Party Started,” “So What,” “Raise Your Glass” and “What About Us.”

In the lead-up to the 2020 election, all eyes are on Iowa. Get updates of all things Iowa politics delivered to your inbox.

A portion of the proceeds from the show will support Girls Rock! Des Moines, according to a news release. Girls Rock! Des Moines is an organization that describes its mission as empowering girls and women, nonbinary and transgender youth and adults through “self-expression, creative agency, and mentoring in music and arts-based education, collaboration, performance, and production."

More: Tim McGraw wears Caitlin Clark jersey during Des Moines show at Wells Fargo Arena

Pink will be joined by the Script, the Irish band behind “Breakeven,” “Hall of Fame” and “For the First Time.”

How to get tickets for Pink’s 2024 tour in Des Moines

The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets will be available to purchase starting on Friday, March 29 at 10 a.m. at hyveetix.com .

Paris Barraza is a trending and general assignment reporter at the Des Moines Register. Reach her at  [email protected] . Follow her on Twitter @ParisBarraza.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: 'Raise Your Glass' and get tickets when Pink brings her 2024 tour to Des Moines this fall

An actor from Iowa is in the Tony-winning Michael Jackson musical coming to Des Moines

A cast member in the award-winning Michael Jackson musical headed to Des Moines at the end of April grew up in Iowa.

Josh A. Dawson, who lived in Cedar Rapids from nearly birth until high school, plays two roles, Quincy Jones and Tito Jackson, in the Tony-winning production “MJ.” The musical comes to the Des Moines Civic Center from April 30 through May 5.

The musical is centered around the making of the 1992 “Dangerous World Tour” and the King of Pop who was responsible for enduring hits such as “Thriller,” “Billie Jean,” “Smooth Criminal” and more.

The actor, who has been involved in national tours of “Hamilton” and “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,” now calls Los Angeles and New York his homes but returns to Iowa at least once a year.

“There’s something about driving through those cornfields that is therapeutic, cathartic,” Dawson said in an interview with the Des Moines Register. “The Midwest is unlike any other place, and I have lived in every corner of this country. I’ve been to all 50 states multiple times. This is my fifth national tour. But there is something about that sort of southern Minnesota-Iowa thing that it’s unlike any other place in the country and I love the pace. I love the vibration. I miss it so much honestly.”

Dawson spoke about the musical, favorite Iowa things and his pursuit of performing arts with the Register ahead of the show’s arrival to Des Moines.

Note:  Answers edited for clarity and length.

What Michael Jackson fans and casual listeners alike can take away from 'MJ'

Des Moines Register: I imagine there are folks who are mega-Michael Jackson fans to those who’ve only listened to what the radio would play. What do you think both kinds of people can walk away from after seeing “MJ”?

Dawson: There’s one thing that Quincy Jones said, and I love him for this: I don’t believe in genres of music. I only believe in good and bad music. ... It is the life force of our species. Doesn’t matter who you are, race, creed, color, sexuality, gender orientation, geographic location, the common denominator in all of our species is good music, and when you can tap into that soul, that rhythm, that vibration, it doesn’t matter who you are.

And there are very few artists in our history that have been able to tap into that universal music. Michael Jackson was probably the greatest artist to do that ... I have seen kids around 2 or 3 come to the show and I have seen people who actually were at the concerts listening to Jackson 5 and the “Victory Tour” and the "Dangerous [World] Tour," and all of them are reacting the same way which tells me that it’s not about the story. Yes, we get to see insight into this person, and I think as a culture, it’s really important for us to start seeing humans, even celebrities, as that. As humans first.

Yes, they have a lot of followers. Yes, they have a lot of fame and fortune, but the common denominator is that we share blood. We share bones. We share trauma. We share a willingness to lean into the future, and I think that’s what Michael Jackson wanted to, more so than anything, he wanted to put love and kindness and compassion and empathy into his music and I think that is the testament to why so many people are connecting with this piece …What I like to say is, all you need to do is come to this show and you will be transformed.

'MJ' actor shares his favorites

Des Moines Register: Were there any favorite spots of yours in Cedar Rapids as a kid growing up?

Dawson: There is a little Italian place, I think it’s kind of mixed through that area — Cedar Rapids, Iowa City — called Zio Johno’s . And their tortellini, if you haven’t had it, it is to die for… there was a barbecue place, I know it’s closed down… but it was called Al and Irene’s and it was just some of the best barbecue I’ve ever had. Maybe I’m biased. Maybe that was just my first introduction to barbecue and so it’s more nostalgic than it is anything else.

I would say between those two places, and of course, anyone from Iowa, Midwest knows Hy-Vee and a Hy-Vee breakfast — it just is unlike any other thing and I cannot wait to get back to Iowa. Between Hy-Vee and Dairy Queen, a cherry dilly bar, c’mon. It does the thing.

Des Moines Register: What are your favorite Michael Jackson songs, whether it’s ones you’ve loved throughout your entire life or new ones you’ve discovered?

Dawson: I’m actually very, very familiar with his discography and I have been. My parents listened to Prince and Michael Jackson growing up — as a matter of fact, my stepfather sang background for Prince for over 20, 30 years. It’s always been a part of my home. My dad was putting on CDs and vinyls and things like that, so I’d say probably, “Don’t Stop 'Til You Get Enough” is iconic for me. Those string arrangements.

I love “Thriller.” It’s a testament to the piece that every October he somehow goes to the top of the charts, and he has been transitioned from this plain for several years and that’s a testament to his craft, his music, his excellence. I love “[I] Can’t Help It.” Not only is it Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson, but Stevie Wonder actually wrote that song, so you have just juggernauts of songwriting sort of converging on one piece.

Des Moines Register: Tell me more about your journey into theater. What drew you to it?

Dawson : I did my first musical at the age of 6, in the first grade. It was a musical called “Stone Soup” ... as I can remember from elementary school on, I have done a musical every year since then… 2021 and 2020, those were probably the only years that I did not do musical theater.

I went to college for it. I did it all through high school. I grew up in church. My dad’s a pastor, grandfather, I come from a long lineage of preachers. It was just sort of the only medium that I found that I could sing, act and dance. My parents were very gracious and saw that I had a passion for it from a very young age and put me in dance classes and acting classes and singing lessons. And I did that, and I’m still doing it.

Next season: 'Back to the Future,' 'Shucked' among the touring Broadway shows headed to Des Moines

How can I get tickets to see ‘MJ’ the musical in Des Moines?

Tickets for the musical can be purchased at desmoinesperformingarts.org , with prices starting at $79, $119 or $129 depending on the date. The show’s run time is two hours and 30 minutes.

Paris Barraza is a trending and general assignment reporter at the Des Moines Register. Reach her at  [email protected] . Follow her on Twitter @ParisBarraza.

Country singer Maren Morris brings 2024 tour to Iowa in July. Get tickets.

Maren Morris is transforming Vibrant Music Hall into her “church” come July.

The country singer is brining her “RSVP Redux Tour” to the Live Nation-owned performance venue in Waukee on July 26.

Some of Morris’ Billboard chart toppers include “The Middle,” featuring Zedd and electronic duo Grey, “The Bones” and "Chasing After You," her duet with Ryan Hurd.

The “My Church” singer has been honored with several awards for her music over her career, including a Grammy and Female Vocalist of the Year from the Country Music Awards.

Morris returns to Iowa nearly one year after her Iowa State Fair Grandstand show in August attracted an audience of more than 6,000 fans .

For every ticket sold, $1 will be donated directly to LGBTQ organizations serving youth in their communities in partnership with nonprofit and LGBTQ support organization the Ally Coalition , according to Live Nation.

Get tickets for Maren Morris’ concert in Des Moines

The show starts at 8 p.m. July 26 at Vibrant Music Hall, 2938 Grand Prairie Parkway, Waukee. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday, April 26 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at livenation.com .

Paris Barraza is a trending and general assignment reporter at the Des Moines Register. Reach her at  [email protected] . Follow her on Twitter @ParisBarraza.

The Head and The Heart announce summer headlining tour, fall arena tour with The Black Keys

• Updated: Apr. 23, 2024, 11:35 a.m. |
• Published: Apr. 23, 2024, 11:34 a.m.

The Head and The Heart will headline a tour in the summer of 2024 then go on a fall tour, opening for The Black Keys, including Oct. 10 in Pittsburgh and Oct. 21 in Philadelphia. Provided by Grandstand Media

• Deb Kiner | [email protected]

The Head and The Heart have announced a summer headlining tour as well as a fall arena tour with The Black Keys.

The summer tour starts July 20 in West Des Moines, Iowa, and ends on Aug. 20 in Moorehead, Minnesota.

The band will be joined on select dates by Phosphorescent, Michigander, Madison Cunningham and Houndmouth.

In the fall, the band will open for The Black Keys, including on Thursday, Oct. 10 at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburg; and on Monday, Oct. 21, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia.

The Head and The Heart schedule includes these performances:

June 30 - Hartford, Connecticut

July 12 - Bend, Oregon

July 14 - Seattle, Washington

July 19 - St. Paul, Minnesota

July 20 - West Des Moines, Iowa

July 21 - Maryland Heights, Missouri

July 24 - LaFayette, New York

July 25 - Burlington, Vermont

July 28 - Albany, New York

July 29 - Rochester, New York

July 31 - Wilmington, North Carolina

Aug. 1 - Charleston, South Carolina

Aug. 2 - St. Petersburg, Florida

Aug. 3 - Orlando, Florida

Aug. 6 - Birmingham, Alabama

Aug. 7 - Little Rock, Arkansas

Aug. 8 - Wichita, Kansas

Aug. 10 - Bellevue, Nebraska

Aug. 12 - Morrison, Colorado

Aug. 13 - Morrison, Colorado

Aug. 15 - Aspen, Colorado

Aug. 17 - Bozeman, Montana

Aug. 18 - Columbia Falls, Montana

Aug. 20 - Moorehead, Minnesota

Sept. 14 - Templeton, California

Sept. 17 - Tulsa, Oklahoma

Sept. 18 - Austin, Texas

Sept. 20 - Louisville, Kentucky

Sept. 21 - Houston, Texas

Sept. 26 - Phoenix, Arizona

Sept. 27 - Inglewood, California

Sept. 28 - Palm Desert, California

Sept. 29 - Mountain View, California

Oct. 11 - Toronto, Canada

Oct. 12 - Cleveland, Ohio

Oct. 13 - Grand Rapids, Michigan

Oct. 16 - Charlotte, North Carolina

Oct. 18 - Nashville, Tennessee

Oct. 19 - Atlanta, Georgia

Oct. 24 - Columbus, Ohio

Oct. 26 - Indianapolis, Indiana

Oct. 27 - Knoxville, Tennessee

Oct. 30 - New York, New York

Nov. 2 - Baltimore, Maryland

Nov. 7 - Chicago, Illinois

Nov. 9 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Nov. 12 - Detroit, Michigan

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"I would highly recommend this to anyone. Barry and Eric were excellent tour guides and did a great job of not only teaching us about the history of beer, but also made a point to learn about each person's favorite type of beer so it was including in the samplings. All the places we visited were great. I definitely plan on doing this again."

Exile Brewing Co. was founded in 2012 by R. J. Tursi, whose commitment to the craft of brewing is shared by each and every member of the Exile community. To them, beer is purpose, it is the ties that bind, it is a labor of love, and they wouldn’t have it any other way! To witness their unparalleled dedication to quality and innovation, visit their brewery in downtown Des Moines. What was once a factory building that produced soap and cosmetics, now brews, bottles, kegs, and cans their delicious beer.

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