
Neighborhoods of Des Moines

River Bend, Des Moines, IA
Accent
4,459
4,459
4,459
Median Home Price
4,459
4,459
4,459
$202,640
Median Rent
$794
Population
10,086

Accent
4,459
4,459
4,459
4,459
4,459
4,459
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Is West Des Moines a good place to live?Yes, West Des Moines is considered one of the best places to live in Iowa. Known for its welcoming community, excellent schools, and vibrant local economy, the city offers a high quality of life. Residents enjoy a mix of suburban comforts and urban conveniences, with plenty of parks, dining options, and shopping areas like the Jordan Creek Town Center.
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Is West Des Moines a walkable neighborhood?West Des Moines is somewhat walkable, with a Walk Score of 34 and a Bike Score of 37 according to Walkscore.com, indicating that most errands require a car, but some areas may offer better walkability or biking options. While the city has pockets of well-connected streets and proximity to parks, schools, and shopping centers, many neighborhoods remain car-dependent. For those who enjoy cycling, the city’s dedicated bike paths and trails provide additional options for getting around.
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What are the activities for kids in West Des Moines?West Des Moines offers a variety of fun and enriching activities for kids. Families can spend time at Raccoon River Park, which features a playground, beach area, and nature trails, or visit the Valley Community Center, which hosts engaging classes and events for children. Kids can also participate in local youth sports leagues, enjoy interactive learning at the nearby Science Center of Iowa, or attend one of the many summer camps available in the area, ensuring there’s always something exciting to do.
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What are the transit options in West Des Moines?West Des Moines provides several convenient transit options for residents and visitors alike. The DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) bus service connects the city to the broader Des Moines metro area, making public transit accessible. The city is also bike-friendly, with dedicated trails and pathways for cycling and walking. Major highways such as I-35 and I-80 offer excellent driving access for commuters, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, making it easy to travel throughout the region.

River Bend is one of Des Moines’ most historic and architecturally rich neighborhoods, known for its beautiful Victorian and early 20th-century homes. Located just north of downtown, this vibrant community blends historic charm with urban convenience, making it a desirable place to live for those who appreciate character and culture.
The neighborhood is home to Riverview Park, a scenic spot along the Des Moines River that hosts community events and offers green space for outdoor activities. Residents also enjoy easy access to the Neal Smith Trail for biking and walking, as well as close proximity to downtown attractions, shopping, and dining. Public transit options, including DART bus routes, make commuting convenient. With its strong sense of community, historic beauty, and central location, River Bend is a unique and appealing neighborhood in Des Moines.