Getting to Know Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines has something of interest if you take the time to look
Your life might be a highway, but your vacation doesn't have to be. You can be connected 50 weeks of the 
Des Moines, Iowayear, but for 2 weeks give yourself permission to get off the freeway, away from the billboards and aggression. And then steer yourself somewhere simpler.
Locals refer to it as "Dead Moans" and author Bill Bryson declared that he's from Des Moines because 
Des Moines, Iowa"someone had to be." But look a little closer and you'll find a thriving arts community, some good eating and, of course, lots of fun things to do.
Over the next few days we'll be posting all you'll need to know if you're planning a road trip to Iowa.
In the meantime, chew on these "Need to Know" Des Moines factoids:
Transportation
Weather
Des Moines enjoys an unnaturally cozy relationship with Old Man Winter, so unless you're made of sterner stuff, visit during the spring when temperatures moderate to a more sane level. By the way, summer is just as uncomfortable as winter with temperatures and humidity rivaling for top ranking.
History
Des Moines began life as Fort Des Moines, a military post that evolved into a farming community. During WW1, more than 100,000 Iowans trained for combat here. Like all farming communities, Des Moines struggled to reinvent itself during the Depression and emerged a major Mid-west business center. Today, it's the 3rd largest insurance center in the world.
Special Events
Listed in Lonely Planet's, "10000 Places to See Before You Die," the Iowa State Fair celebrated their 150th anniversary in August 2004. They still hold hog- and husband-calling contests, a 500-pound butter cow, and needlepoint and vegetable contests. But don't discount it as all kitschy. Garth Brooks, Kid Rock and Clay Aiken are just a few of the big-name performers who grace the stage, and there are more than 900 food categories to chomp your way through.More Information
Ever been to Des Moines? Love it or hate it, let us know!
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