Best Midwest Free Attractions: Iowa

Free attractions in Des Moines

Iowa State Capitol, Des Moines Tour the gold-domed landmark (left), built between 1871 and 1886, and its monument-dotted grounds overlooking downtown Des Moines.

Des Moines Art Center The collection features modernist works by Edward Hopper, Henri Matisse and others. Large, airy exhibit spaces reflect the different styles of three architects: Eliel Saarinen, I. M. Pei and Richard Meier.

State Historical Museum, Des Moines Listen to tapes of coal miners at work, learn about Iowa's caucus system, see a battle flag preservation lab or carry pioneer-era water buckets with a shoulder yoke.