Depending on the route taken, the distance between Des Moines, Iowa and the Mississippi River can be over 500 miles apart. Many people unfamiliar with the Midwest geography may not understand why the two are so far apart. In this article, we’ll explore the layout of the region in order to understand how far Des Moines is from the Mississippi River.
Generally, the Midwest is the center of the United States and is composed of the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, and parts of Indiana and Ohio. It is drained by the Mississippi River through several large tributary rivers including the Missouri, Ohio, and Illinois. This has created the long chain of lake that dot the Midwest. Each lake gradually decreases in size from north to south until the river reaches the Gulf of Mexico.
Des Moines is located in Central Iowa, about 230 miles from the northern border. It is nestled between the Missouri River and the Des Moines River, both of which are major tributaries of the Mississippi River. Des Moines is about 400 miles from the Mississippi River. Driving from Des Moines to the Mississippi River via Interstate 29 takes about six hours.
However, the road trip is much more than just a simple commute between two points. Along the way, travelers are exposed to the historied legacy of the region. This includes Green Island, the home of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the many state parks that they encountered along the way. Visitors will also pass through Hannibal, Missouri, the childhood home of Mark Twain, and the quaint town of De Soto, Iowa.
Despite the considerable distance, Des Moines is situated in an ideal location to explore the upper Midwest. There are a myriad of activities to pursue in the surrounding areas including horseback riding, biking, rafting, fishing, and kayaking. In fact, the Mississippi River defines much of the region’s outdoor experience.
Des Moines itself is home to a variety of attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. It is often cited as one of the most livable cities in the US. In addition to the many cultural events and activities found in the city, Des Moines is also known for its vibrant music scene, diverse dining options, and a thriving arts and culture scene.
Geography of the Midwest
The Midwest is composed of flat plains, rolling hills, and deep valleys. It is defined by large river systems including the Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio and Illinois. This topography creates an interesting visual that stands in stark contrast to many of the more geographically diverse states in the United States.
The Midwest is also home to many lakes. These small bodies of water are often used as popular fishing and boating spots. The Great Lakes, which include Lake Huron, Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and others, form the northern border of the Midwest region.
In addition to recreational activities, the region’s rivers and lakes also host numerous industrial activities. The Mississippi River is one of the most important commercial waterways in the United States. Cargo ships and barges can be seen carrying goods up and down the river.
The Midwest’s geography is also characterized by its diverse climate. Summers tend to be hot and humid, while winters are often cold and dry. The region experiences three distinct seasons – spring, summer and fall – each of which bring a variety of weather and recreational opportunities to the area.
History and Culture of the Midwest
The Midwest has a rich history and culture. The region was explored by French and British settlers in the late 1700s and early 1800s. This led to the development of settlements in many of the Midwest’s major cities, such as Chicago, St. Louis, Milwaukee, and Detroit.
In the mid-1800s, the Midwest also saw an influx of German and Scandinavian immigrants. This led to the development of many distinct cultures throughout the region and a unique fusion of American and European customs. The region also has a strong agricultural heritage, which can be seen in the many small towns and rural villages scattered throughout the region.
The Midwest is also home to some of the most renowned universities in the world, such as Harvard, the University of Michigan, and the University of Wisconsin. Many of these schools are respected for their scientific and technological advances. Each school has a unique atmosphere that is difficult to find anywhere else in the United States.
The Midwest has also been a launching pad for some of the most influential musicians, authors, and filmmakers in the United States. Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, and Billie Holiday are just a few examples of the Midwest’s musical legacy. Authors such as Sinclair Lewis, Toni Morrison, and Herman Melville have also called the Midwest their home. Finally, filmmakers such as Francis Ford Coppola, Robert Altman, and John Hughes have left their mark on the movie world.
Interesting Facts about Des Moines
Des Moines is the capital city of Iowa. It is the most populous city in the state and the sixth-largest city in the Midwest. The city is known for its thriving cultural and civic life, helping it to achieve the moniker “City of Five Flags.” Des Moines is also home to the Iowa State Capitol and several large employers.
Des Moines was founded in 1851 as an economic and transportation hub. The city quickly grew and soon became the state’s government center. In 1880, the city hosted the Republican National Convention, becoming the first midwestern capital to do so.
Des Moines is perhaps best known as the birthplace of the modern insurance industry. The city is home to the National Insurance Education Center, the National Insurance Museum, and the National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research.
The city is also home to several interesting attractions. These include the Des Moines Art Center, the Des Moines Botanical Garden, the State Historical Museum, and the annual Iowa State Fair.
Best Time to Visit Des Moines
The best time to visit Des Moines is between April and October. During this time, the city’s temperate climate is perfect for outdoor activities. High temperatures average in the mid-70s during the spring and summer months, while lows hover around 50 degrees.
Rainfall is typically concentrated in the spring and summer months. The city averages around 40 inches of rainfall each year. Snowfall is typically light, with the city receiving around 17 inches annually.
Des Moines offers a variety of cultural attractions and activities that can be enjoyed year-round. Visitors can explore the city’s vibrant art and music scene, enjoy outdoor activities, or simply take in the area’s vast natural beauty.
Attend Events in Des Moines
Des Moines hosts a variety of events year-round. The the Iowa State Fair is one of the city’s biggest and most popular events. The fair has been held annually since 1854 and includes carnival rides, live music, and traditional fair foods.
Another popular event is the Des Moines Arts Festival. This annual event features more than 140 local, regional, and international artists who share their work with over 500,000 visitors each year. The festival also includes musical performances, interactive activities, and art and food vendors.
Finally, visitors can attend the popular Festival of Trees. This annual holiday event transforms the city into a winter wonderland. Attendees can take a horse-drawn carriage ride, sample traditional holiday treats, and view stunning light displays.
Things to Do in Des Moines
In addition to its many events, Des Moines offers a variety of attractions and activities. Visitors can explore the world-renowned Des Moines Art Center, watch a play at the Des Moines Performing Arts Center, and browse the countless shops in the Historic East Village.
Des Moines also has a vibrant music scene. The city hosts concerts year-round at the renowned Wells Fargo Arena and numerous other venues. Visitors can also explore the city’s museums, galleries, and unique restaurants.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Des Moines offers an abundance of parks and trails. Visitors can take a nature walk or bike ride along the beautiful Raccoon River, or visit the gorgeous Gray’s Lake Park to enjoy a picnic or take in the stunning views of the Iowa countryside.
Getting around Des Moines
Des Moines is served by a comprehensive public transportation system. The city’s bus system, DART, operates a variety of routes throughout the city and suburbs. The city also has several taxi services and ride-sharing apps, such as Uber and Lyft, available.
For those looking to explore the city on their own, Des Moines offers several bike-share services. The city’s bike lanes are well-maintained and provide cyclists with a safe and convenient way to explore the city.
Finally, Des Moines has an extensive network of highways and interstates, making it easy to explore the surrounding region. Interstate 80, Interstate 35, and Interstate 235 all run through the city, making it easy to hop on and off the highway.
