Principal Riverwalk

The Principal Riverwalk is the stretch of paved trail and plazas that lines the Des Moines River through the middle of downtown. It links the Western Gateway, the East Village and the Court Avenue district, and it passes under and over a series of bridges. The walk is short, flat and scenic, with public art, benches, small parks and views of the city skyline. Locals use it for exercise and strolling, and visitors find it an easy way to see the city's layout.\n\nAlong the way, you encounter a mix of public spaces. The Brenton Skating Plaza, a rink that operates in winter, becomes a plaza for events in warmer months. The Court Avenue bridge area brings restaurants and bars within a short walk, and the waterfront sections provide quiet places to sit. Evenings are especially pleasant when the lights come on and the river reflects the towers. It is a free, flexible outing that fits any schedule.

A leisurely walk of the main riverwalk loop takes about an hour, but you can adjust the length to your energy. Most people pick a starting point near the Western Gateway or the East Village, walk along one bank, cross a bridge and return on the other. Maps are posted at some points, and signs label key sights. The surface is paved and generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.\n\nRunners and cyclists share the path with walkers, so keep to the right and watch for faster traffic at busy times. Early morning is the quietest period.

Summer afternoons can be hot, so carry water and wear sun protection. In autumn, the leaves along the river are a highlight, and in winter, the skating plaza turns the area into a lively seasonal destination.\n\nPhotographers should aim for the golden hour when the Capitol dome and the glass towers catch the light.

Several bridges provide good views of the skyline and the gold dome in the distance. Birdwatchers sometimes spot waterfowl and herons near the river's edge.\n\nThe riverwalk connects with the longer trail network that runs through the metro area, so cyclists can extend the ride well beyond downtown.

Bike rentals and bike-share systems may operate seasonally, so check what is available. Families can combine the walk with a picnic or ice cream break at one of the small parks.\n\nCombine the walk with the Sculpture Park, the Art Center and the Capitol for a day of free sights. Finish with dinner in the East Village or on Court Avenue, and use the riverwalk to digest your meal while the city lights come on.\n\nThe riverwalk also tells a story about the city's recovery and reinvention.

Parts of the riverfront were once industrial or neglected, and the transformation into parks, plazas and trails reflects decades of civic planning. As you walk, notice how the bridges connect different districts and how the buildings face the water. Information panels at points along the route explain the history. If you prefer a longer outing, cyclists can follow trail connections beyond downtown, and runners can build a loop of several miles. Early on a summer morning, with mist on the river, it feels like a different city.