Des Moines, Iowa is the capital and most populous city in the state of Iowa. It is located in the center of the state, along the Des Moines River. The city has a population of over 217,000 people and is home to many businesses, universities, and cultural attractions.

The city is known for its vibrant downtown area, which features a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. The Des Moines Art Center is one of the city's most popular attractions and features works from local and international artists. The Science Center of Iowa offers interactive exhibits that explore science and technology. The Pappajohn Sculpture Park showcases sculptures from around the world.

Des Moines also has a thriving music scene with several venues hosting live music events throughout the year. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year including the Iowa State Fair, which draws thousands of visitors each year.

The city has a number of parks and recreational areas including Gray's Lake Park which offers walking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas. Water Works Park is another popular spot for outdoor activities such as biking or kayaking on its lake or playing disc golf on its 18-hole course.

Des Moines is home to several universities including Drake University and Grand View University as well as numerous private schools such as Des Moines University and Simpson College. The city also has an extensive public transportation system with buses running throughout the city as well as light rail service connecting downtown to other parts of town.