Principal Riverwalk, Cycle path along Des Moines River, United States.
Principal Riverwalk is a pathway running along both banks of the Des Moines River through downtown, with separate lanes for cyclists and pedestrians. The route includes multiple entry points, water fountains, and rest areas spaced throughout its length.
Development of this pathway started in the early 2000s as part of an urban renewal program aimed at transforming the riverside into a recreational space. The project marked a shift in how the city's residents could access and use the river.
Artists have shaped the route with sculptures and installations that show how the city integrates public art into everyday spaces. You encounter these works naturally as you cycle or walk, giving the path its own character.
The path is accessible from multiple points with clear signage directing you to connecting routes, making it easy to plan your ride. Water fountains and rest areas are regularly spaced, which makes longer trips more comfortable.
The path features illuminated bridges that connect the east and west sides, allowing cyclists to create loop routes across the river. These bridges also make it possible to use the route safely after dark.
Location: Des Moines
Address: Des Moines River Trail, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
GPS coordinates: 41.59220,-93.61751
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:09
Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, brings together history, culture, and nature in one city. The State Capitol stands out with its golden dome, while art museums, historical museums, and galleries share the city with botanical gardens, a zoo, and neighborhood parks. The downtown area comes alive with theaters, restaurants, and breweries. Local farmers markets and shops give you a sense of how people here spend their time. This collection shows where visitors and residents gather. The Des Moines Art Center and State Historical Museum hold works and stories worth seeing. Family spots like Blank Park Zoo and Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden offer different kinds of experience. Parks along the Des Moines River—including Gray's Lake Park and the river trails—are places where you walk and watch the water. The East Village has smaller galleries and shops mixed in with restaurants. For live entertainment, the Civic Center and theaters host performances and sports. The Pappajohn Sculpture Park lets you walk among artworks outdoors. The Iowa State Fairgrounds, Court Avenue, and the Downtown Farmers' Market show you where the community gathers. Between museums, parks, river trails, and local food and drink spots, Des Moines offers many ways to spend a day or weekend.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
588 m
Des Moines Botanical Center
608 m
Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market
831 m
St. Ambrose Cathedral
790 m
Principal Riverwalk
786 m
Des Moines City Hall
357 m
Plaza Building
751 m
Public Library of Des Moines
531 m
World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
522 m
Des Moines Building
826 m
United States Post Office
607 m
United States Courthouse
552 m
Teachout Building
608 m
American Republic Insurance Company Headquarters Building
687 m
Syndicate Block
655 m
Scottish Rite Consistory Building
630 m
Court Avenue Bridge
709 m
Hawkeye Insurance Company Building
822 m
Elliott Furniture Company
550 m
Baker-Devotie-Hollingsworth Block
621 m
Youngerman Block
807 m
Iowa Commission for the Blind Building
573 m
Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens
123 m
East Des Moines Industrial Historic District
510 m
State Historical Building
725 m
Des Moines Civic Center
598 m
Rotary Riverwalk Park
186 m
Locust Street Bridge
425 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
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