Western Gateway Travel Guide
Des Moines





Visit Western Gateway
Popular places to visit

John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Whimsical, entertaining and provocative can easily describe the artwork at this outdoor gallery that provides new meaning and life to sculptures.

Western Gateway Park
After visiting Western Gateway Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Des Moines. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its great live music.

Jordan Creek Town Center
You can do some window-shopping at Jordan Creek Town Center during your visit to West Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music or attend a sporting event.

Iowa State Fairgrounds
Enjoy an outing to Iowa State Fairgrounds during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music or attend a sporting event.

Iowa Events Center
Learn about the events happening in Iowa Events Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music and lively festivals.

Principal Park
Catch an event at Principal Park during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music and acclaimed theatre scene.
Top hotels in Western Gateway

Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton
The room was beautiful but sadly there wasn't a microwave. It was really clean and the bed was extremely comfortable!
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
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Reviewed on 12 Apr 2026

Wildwood Lodge
This property is extremely well kept with great decor. The check in lady was super friendly and explained everything one could need to know. The room was very clean and decorated uniquely. The pool was good sized. Hot to was shut down for repair, but that happens. No big deal. The breakfast is very ...
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026

Des Lux Hotel
Everything was fantastic! Beautiful hotel, staff wonderful.
Reviewed on 11 Apr 2026

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
I took shuttle to and from airport and had to leave for an early flight before breakfast The hotel showed signs of a bit or wear and tear. The room was, clean, and comfortable and the desk clerk was extremely helpful. She arranged 4 am shuttle pick up and I was, per my request given an accessible ...
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026

Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston
Property was clean but a little dated. Staff was very nice. Overall good place to stay but definitely not worth 200.00 a night. Constant slamming of doors in the morning made it really hard to sleep in.
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Western Gateway

Sherman Hill
When in Sherman Hill, you can plan a visit to Hoyt Sherman Place and 801 Grand, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Downtown Des Moines
The abundant dining options and live music are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Des Moines. A stop by 801 Grand or Des Moines Civic Center might round out your trip.

Court District
Travellers come to Court District for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Science Center of Iowa and Principal Park while you're in town.

Woodland Heights
While Woodland Heights isn't home to many top sights, Hoyt Sherman Place and Terrace Hill are some notable places to visit nearby.

Historic East Village
Historic East Village is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Wooly's and Iowa State Capitol Building while you're in town.

Columbus Park
While Columbus Park may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Principal Park and Science Center of Iowa.
