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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.
Discover the Best Schools
in West Des Moines
West Des Moines is renowned for its excellent educational opportunities, with the West Des Moines Community School District (WDMCS) standing out as a pillar of quality education in the area. According to Niche.com, the district boasts impressive rankings that reflect its commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and exceptional teaching staff.
Below are the highlights of WDMCS's achievements within the Des Moines area:
#1 of 18 – Best School Districts for Athletes
#2 of 18 – Most Diverse School Districts
#3 of 18 – Best Places to Teach.
#4 of 18 – Best School Districts Overall
#6 of 18 – Districts with the Best Teachers
Source: Niche.com (West Des Moines Community School District Rankings)
Source: Niche.com (West Des Moines Community School District Rankings)
High Ranking Schools in West Des Moines Community School District
Valley High School
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Dowling Catholic High School
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Westridge Elementary School
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Jordan Creek Elementary School
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Crossroads Park Elementary School
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West Des Moines, Iowa, is a thriving suburb that offers the perfect balance of family-friendly living, career opportunities, and recreational activities. If you want to grow your family, advance your career, or enjoy a vibrant, community-focused environment, West Des Moines real estate has something for everyone.
This highly sought-after suburb combines a strong local economy, excellent schools, diverse housing options, and an abundance of outdoor spaces and attractions, making it an ideal place to call home.
At The Grantham Group, we are proud to serve this vibrant and growing community, and look forward to helping you find your dream home or investment property.
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Popular Attractions
West Des Moines offers more than just a place to live—it’s filled with attractions that make life exciting and enjoyable. Here are a few key highlights:
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Historic Valley Junction: Situated at 137 5th Street, this historic district offers a charming mix of local shops, galleries, and eateries. It’s also known for its farmers’ markets and vibrant seasonal events, which give the community its unique character.
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Raccoon River Park: Located at 2500 Grand Avenue, this expansive park is an outdoor haven with a 232-acre lake, beach, and trails. It’s perfect for outdoor activities and family gatherings.
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West Glen Town Center: Situated off Mills Civic Parkway, West Glen is a modern, mixed-use development with trendy dining, nightlife, and retail options. It’s a popular spot for those seeking an evening out close to home.
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Smash Park: Located at 6625 Coachlight Drive, Smash Park is an entertainment venue that combines pickleball courts, a sports bar, and social events. It’s the perfect place to stay active and have fun with friends and family.
Shopping and Dining
West Des Moines is a hub for shopping and dining, offering a mix of unique boutiques, popular retailers, and a variety of eateries to suit every taste. Here are some must-visit spots:
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St. Kilda Collective: Located at 555 17th Street, this stylish café offers a modern menu with locally sourced ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to grab a latte or enjoy a farm-to-table meal in West Des Moines.
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Valley West Mall: Situated at 1551 Valley West Drive, this established shopping center in West Des Moines features a mix of national retailers, dining options, and services. It’s a convenient spot for a shopping spree or casual outing.
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Jordan Creek Town Center: Located at 101 Jordan Creek Parkway, this premier shopping and entertainment destination boasts a wide range of high-end retailers, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema. It’s the ultimate West Des Moines hotspot for shopping and leisure.
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Waterfront Seafood Market: Found at 2900 University Avenue, this local gem serves fresh seafood dishes and provides high-quality seafood for home cooking. It’s a beloved dining destination for West Des Moines residents craving the taste of the coast.
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Maxie’s Supper Club: Located at 1311 Grand Avenue, Maxie’s is a charming supper club known for its classic American comfort food and relaxed, welcoming vibe. It’s an ideal choice for a cozy dinner in West Des Moines.
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ClockTower Square: Situated at 2900 University Avenue, this quaint shopping and office plaza features boutique stores and casual eateries. It’s a popular neighborhood spot for shopping, dining, and community events in West Des Moines.
Hotels in West Des Moines
Planning a visit to West Des Moines? Here’s a selection of hotels to suit various needs, whether you’re staying for business, leisure, or house-hunting:
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Hyatt Place West Des Moines/Jordan Creek
This hotel offers upscale accommodations and is ideally located near Jordan Creek Town Center, making it a great choice for travelers looking to stay close to premier shopping and dining options. With modern amenities and a convenient location, Hyatt Place ensures a comfortable and accessible stay. -
Sheraton West Des Moines
The Sheraton provides stylish and comfortable accommodations for both business and leisure travelers. Its central location allows easy access to local attractions, dining, and entertainment, making it a versatile choice for visitors to the area. -
Revel Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
For a luxurious experience, the Revel Hotel offers a modern and chic setting near West Glen Town Center. As part of Hilton's Tapestry Collection, this hotel blends sophisticated design with premium amenities, ensuring an elevated stay for guests.
No matter the reason for your visit, these hotels provide convenient access to the best of West Des Moines!
