10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING DES MOINES, IOWA | Some Fun Things to do in Des Moines, Iowa!

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  • Опубліковано 19 чер 2024
  • Here is the original article, "10 Things to Know Before Visiting Des Moines, Iowa" if you're interested in reading it:
    tinyurl.com/9r6emz8t
    "There's no place like home". That's for sure! Although I know reside in a nearby smaller town, Des Moines, Iowa is where I was born and raised. Des Moines is where I work. While Des Moines doesn't always pop up as a popular tourist destination, Iowa tourism and Des Moines tourism are on the rise, for sure! There are so many fun things to do in Des Moines and there are so many fun things to do in Iowa! So, here is what to know before visiting Des Moines Iowa!
    The pronunciation of Des Moines has always been confusing for some--even those reading the news! Basically, the s's in Des Moines are silent. Once Des Moines pronunciation is figured out, you can start thinking about the exciting attractions and activiities in Des Moines. For example, the new, world-class, downtown Des Moines skatepark recently hosted the Des Moines, Iowa Dew Tour skateboard competition. Athletes and fans from around the nation flocked to Iowa for this incredible event! When the Des Moines skatepark isn't hosting world class athletes, it is open to the public. Even if you can't thrash on your skateboard or bike, you can come and watch others go crazy at this awesome Des Moines attraction. This is just one fun thing to do in Des Moines.
    Not far away is Sec Taylor Stadium at Principal Park. Sec Taylor Stadium is home to the Iowa Cubs. The Iowa Cubs are the AAA affiliate for the Chicago Cubs. Around the corner from the home of the Iowa Cubs, on Saturdays, Des Moines hosts the downtown Des Moines Farmers Market. The Des Moines Farmers Market is consistently named amongst the top two or three farmers markets in the nation. Downtown Des Moines, Iowa is tough to beat.
    And don't forget the Iowa vs. Iowa State rivalry football game in the Fall! and have fun letting the kids participate in Beggars Night! But before that, in mid-August, make it a point to visit the Iowa State Fair! The Iowa State Fair is listed as one of the "1,000 Places to See Before you Die" in the best-selling book of the same title.
    So if you are considering visiting Des Moines or you are considering visiting Iowa, check out this Des Moines tourism video/Iowa tourism video to get an idea of why Des Moines and Iowa are consistently among the award winners for "best places to live"! If so, after you visit, you may not want to leave! Or maybe you're considering moving to Des Moines, Iowa! If so, you're in for a treat! Iowa is about more than corn! Downtown Des Moines is awesome, there are several great Des Moines suburbs, and the Iowa State Capitol and its guilded dome is a sight to see on a clear day!
    So thanks for watching!
    And remember, die with dreams, not memories!
    Stay in The Wandering Firefighter's Punta Cana condo by booking here:
    www.gopuntacanavacations.com/...
    If you want to book a tour or activity in Iowa, please use my affiliate link below and I will get small commission at no extra charge to you...so thanks for the support:
    www.viator.com/?pid=P00002881...
    I'm also a HUGE fan of my Cotapaxi Allpa backpack. It is carryon approved but big enough and organized enough to hold enough stuff for like a week. I use it on every trip I go on (along with about six other bags/products). I'll leave my affiliate link below. Every purchase also results in a donation to a humanatarian cause around the world. It's really easy to get behind this company (so easy that I named my dog after it...haha):
    www.pntrs.com/t/2-511828-2903...

КОМЕНТАРІ • 195

  • @trishamccarty3202
    @trishamccarty3202 Рік тому +5

    I'm a proud Iowan... born and raised... couldn't imagine living anywhere else. My state is beautiful ❤❤

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому +1

      I agree! Love visiting the world, but love living in Iowa!

    • @trishamccarty3202
      @trishamccarty3202 Рік тому

      @@TheWanderingFirefighter .
      . Born and someday death... never will leave. Iowa is a place I'm proud of.

    • @MisterMcKinney
      @MisterMcKinney 11 місяців тому

      Except for Ankeny! My God! Gobbling up the most fertile soil in the country! So unconscionable!!!! God help us all!!!!

  • @otnesoriginals7946
    @otnesoriginals7946 Рік тому +2

    You’re a great ambassador for Iowa. Especially all the talk about manners and courtesy!

  • @Jared_Wignall
    @Jared_Wignall Місяць тому

    A born and raised Des Moines native, this is really cool to see. I like when people outside of the state don’t think of Iowa as just a corn hick state. Thank you for this video man, have a great day!

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Місяць тому +1

      Thanks for the kind words! Glad you enjoyed it. Iowa is one of the best places around :)

  • @margl7793
    @margl7793 2 роки тому +5

    It will always be Sec Taylor Stadium to me!!!

  • @reneemansini7687
    @reneemansini7687 2 роки тому +5

    This is why after living in Missouri for 10 years we are coming home to Iowa! Great description of this lovely state!

  • @brieanneginoire4354
    @brieanneginoire4354 2 роки тому +3

    Great job capturing the essence of Des Moines!

  • @princewebster9546
    @princewebster9546 2 місяці тому

    Great video, I'm from Des Moines born and raised you are correct on your description of my hometown. I currently reside in San Diego Ca and Love it out here but there's NOTHING like Midwest Living. I haven't been back since 2012 I'm traveling back home this August for 2 weeks and I must say I'm excited. Thanks for sharing you did a fantastic job blessings from San Diego!

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 місяці тому +1

      Hey thanks for watching and for the kind words! I hope you enjoy your return visit home!

  • @halotubb1110
    @halotubb1110 2 роки тому +2

    Been to des Moines and virtually every part of iowa many times for work. Finally visiting downtown Des Moines!

  • @ryanmassey1958
    @ryanmassey1958 2 роки тому +2

    I have lived in Des Moines for 4 years now and this video couldn't be more accurate, great video!

  • @amandahughes9389
    @amandahughes9389 2 роки тому +1

    I love this!! We take our home for granted but I love it here!!

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      Thanks! I appreciate that…and you’re so right. I take it for granted sometimes.

  • @HippieEraTV
    @HippieEraTV 2 роки тому +1

    I am planning a trip to Iowa to see my friend from highschool like in june/july. I'm hoping to have a great time looking forward to exploring and meeting new folks!

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      That’s awesome! Hope you have a great time :) Go see a Cubs game and check out the downtown area near the stadium. Check out the skate park too (even if you aren’t a skater…I’m not, but it’s cool!)

  • @christov2002able
    @christov2002able 10 місяців тому

    Great video thanks, visiting from NZ in September and just booked tickets for a ball game as recommended cheers

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  10 місяців тому +1

      That’s awesome, mate! My wife and I backpacked through NZ during college. Loved it there. Great people and beautiful country!

  • @traveltalesandteddybears
    @traveltalesandteddybears 2 роки тому +1

    That food on a stick looked pretty good. 👍 You painted a good picture for someone who has not been to the Midwest yet. Thanks!

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      They even have fried butter on a stick…no joke…lol! Hope you get to the Midwest someday! I love traveling and seeing the world, but always look forward to coming back home :)

  • @yareliscalderonf
    @yareliscalderonf 2 роки тому +2

    Loved the video! I'm moving to Des Moines from Puerto Rico on May 31 and was feeling kind of lost on what to expect of Iowa. Tbh I'm waaaay too excited about the Farmers Market and walking around the city.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому +1

      I'm really glad the video gives you some sort of idea of what to expect! Downtown Farmers' Market had its opening day last Saturday, so you're right on time! I hope you have a smooth transition...and welcome to IOWA! :)

  • @BigEasyQuest
    @BigEasyQuest 2 роки тому +5

    As a Iowan or Iowegian I agree its a pretty good place to grow up and raise a family

  • @pattystaskal2833
    @pattystaskal2833 2 роки тому +1

    Great representation! Born and raised here as are kids and their kids. ❤️

  • @khonphet7059
    @khonphet7059 Рік тому +1

    Great Video! If you love beggars night try visiting the Brook Run village area on the east side of the town, it get very crazy in that neighborhood.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Thank you very much for the kind words :) And thanks for the suggestion…we’ll have to check that out!

  • @stacybrown6546
    @stacybrown6546 Рік тому

    Very Cool! I'm heading up after the Thanksgiving Celebration! Can't wait. Would totally move to Iowa given half a chance. Love from Texas!

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Thanks for watching and for the comment :) I hope you have a great Thanksgiving and an awesome time in Iowa!

  • @mokonzi2K6
    @mokonzi2K6 Рік тому

    Great video very informative ... I subscribed.

  • @yueman3635
    @yueman3635 2 роки тому

    Helpful info , travelling to Iowa this aug

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому +1

      Thanks, Andrew. I appreciate it. The fair runs Aug 11-21 if you’re in town then! Have a great time :)

  • @PONCEJE
    @PONCEJE 2 роки тому +3

    Great Video. Des Moines it is a amazing place to rise kids.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      Thank you, Juan...and yes, I love traveling, but no other place I'd want to raise a family!

  • @eunhyexss5471
    @eunhyexss5471 Рік тому +3

    Thank you for this video! I am actually moving to Des Moines in about a month to attend Drake University. I'm from Texas and I've lived here my whole life but the first time I visited Des Moines with my family it felt completely different from Dallas however it was in March and was snowing a little so that was a shock, I don't think I was mentally prepared for how cold it can get there, but It also seems a lot more clean and the people are very friendly and a lot of them struck up a conversation with us. The area surrounding my school isn't the safest but outside of it, it's very nice and it seems like theres many things to do! I will admit driving 10 hours through the midwest was a complete bore but I think I will whole heartedly enjoy spending the next 4 years (possibly even more after I graduate) in Des Moines.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому +1

      Thanks for watching and for the comment!
      Welcome to Des Moines and congrats on Drake! It’s not that bad of an area during the day. Night can get a little bit crazier…haha. And yes, we can get very cold and very hot here…sometimes a day apart! Good luck in your studies and beyond :)
      (By the way, check out my Iowa playlist for other stuff to do while you call it home!)
      ua-cam.com/play/PL4NWbeNPyUsCUkpRUXebUXXPGl8kA5IQC.html

    • @kayelane5868
      @kayelane5868 Рік тому

      @@TheWanderingFirefighter Curious about other areas that may not be safe. My husband and I are pretty sure we want to retire to Des Moines in a few years but I worry about the homeless and drug scene. I know every city has troubles and though I wish there was more that could be done for the homeless, I also don't want to live in an area where this is an issue. We live far from the Midwest, so traveling/driving around the city aren't practical ideas. I love the snow and thunderstorms, and that is partly why I'm drawn to the city, among other things, such as a zoo and parks/lakes, etc. No to mention the lower cost of living! If I could move there now, I'd do it in a heartbeat! I'm so ready to retire and leave the town we're in! Just have about 5 years to go before I can do it... Thanks for the video!

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому +1

      @@kayelane5868 There are pockets of unsafe areas, but compared to cities of similar size and population, still safe. Getting worse every day (just like any other place on the earth), but still good people. I won't put too many areas on blast, publicly, but you can send me a private message on facebook if you want. The smaller towns (I live in Carlisle now) and some suburbs are pretty nice too.

    • @kayelane5868
      @kayelane5868 Рік тому

      @@TheWanderingFirefighter Thanks for the info. Yeah, the world is getting exponentially worse.

  • @jacobmeyers3446
    @jacobmeyers3446 2 роки тому

    Great video!

  • @addyeginoire3109
    @addyeginoire3109 2 роки тому

    great video!!

  • @RobDTom
    @RobDTom 2 роки тому +8

    Great video! Very informative and well done. Was watching with my daughter. At first we thought the best pizza being from a gas station was a joke (pizza from a gas station here in SoCal is horrifying), then the video showed the box of pizza being opened and my daughter and I looked at each other and gasped "what?!" and started cracking up as the pizza looked delicious. lol. How do you only have 600 subscribers? Great channel. Subscribed.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому +2

      Hey thanks for the kind words!! Channel is about 7 month old and it is tricky getting subscribers at first...but growing very quickly lately. Thanks for subscribing...I greatly appreciate it! And yes, Casey's pizza is crazy good. If you're ever passing through Iowa, send me a message and we'll try to hook you up! haha

    • @RobDTom
      @RobDTom 2 роки тому

      The Wandering Firefighter very cool. I didn’t realize the channel was so new. I will definitely take you up on your offer if we make it out to Iowa. We are considering where to visit for a possible move next summer. Thanks for the response!

  • @alyssaeginoire1490
    @alyssaeginoire1490 2 роки тому +2

    Love it :)

  • @katelynshores3189
    @katelynshores3189 Рік тому

    My LEO wants to transfer there. We have never even been to Iowa we are from down south! But I’m so drawn to it for some reason! Love the video

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Thank you for the kind words! Our FFs and LEOs have a great relationship in Des Moines :) Thank you to your LEO for their service! Come on up and visit sometime!

  • @casperjoseph1314
    @casperjoseph1314 10 місяців тому

    Die with memories not dreams! Love that line!

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  10 місяців тому

      Thank you! I gotta say, it was pretty transformational for me when I first heard it :)

  • @grettalemabouchou6779
    @grettalemabouchou6779 Рік тому

    Casey's pizza is FANTASTIC..... it's true. Fun vdeo...subbed.

  • @dianaantezana7134
    @dianaantezana7134 Рік тому

    This was a very nice educational proud native video.

  • @matthassel9026
    @matthassel9026 2 роки тому

    The holding the door scene is the best!

  • @joygibson484
    @joygibson484 Рік тому

    Be sure to check out Scornovacca's Pizza on SE 14th Street. Small, family owned restaurant. Pizza, pasta, and garlic bread!

  • @CosmeticHappy
    @CosmeticHappy Рік тому +3

    This was great! I’m currently planning a future road trip to Iowa next year from Toronto. The holding the door part killed me because I’m totally guilty of doing that myself. 😂 I’m from Nova Scotia originally and I miss being around kind and friendly people so that is one of things I’m most looking forward to. 😊 Cheers!

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому +1

      Thanks for watching and for the comment :) I hope you have a great time on your road trip! Coming through Michigan and Illinois, etc? We took a similar road trip from Iowa to Toronto back in college and had a blast in Toronto :)

    • @CosmeticHappy
      @CosmeticHappy Рік тому

      @@TheWanderingFirefighter That’s awesome! Yes that’s plan, Michigan and Illinois, seems like the fastest route but still with some cool stops along the way :)

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому +1

      @@CosmeticHappy Indiana Dunes National Park is a good stop!

  • @sloanweil
    @sloanweil Рік тому

    2:34 that skate park is literally so cool!
    I live in Des Moines and go there a lot. It’s new, I’m pretty sure it was built in 2021! 😂

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому +1

      It is cool, isn't it? Super awesome to see the Mountain Dew tour there! If it was around when I was a kid, I might have been a skater...lol

  • @perky5874
    @perky5874 Рік тому

    I❤wa has the best people lots of love . Moved 3 years ago grew up there but were am at know not even close to the hospitality .

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Sorry to hear people aren’t as nice in your new location! There are great people all over the world, but I agree, Iowa has some of the best per capita :)

  • @tabithatierney6512
    @tabithatierney6512 Рік тому

    Got to try machine shed too! It’s the best!

  • @termitesc.aardwolf3644
    @termitesc.aardwolf3644 2 місяці тому

    I grew up in Omaha, Nebraska so generally the same region but never called soda "pop". I used to watch The Jetsons as a kid on Cartoon Network and Elroy always called his dad "pop". By that logic, you might as well refer to soda as "father". That's why I never called it pop despite growing up in the midwest.

  • @candyhoops3332
    @candyhoops3332 2 роки тому +2

    Lived in des moines iowa my entire life, hell my parents still live in the same house i had my first birthday in (32yrs). I gotta say you totally nailed the over use of please and thank you and ma'am and sir. Also can't forget the excuse me and im so sorry either lol. Ope, welp, there's nothing wrong with being overly polite. Also, any time one of my customers call me ma'am i usually make a joke and say "dang, I thought I was a miss". And the door thing, yes 🤣 we're all guilty of it. Unfortunately people aren't quite as polite as they were even like 3 years ago. Love this city though.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      Thanks for the comment! And yes, I say “ope…sorry” anytime I even sort of come close to walking in someone’s way…haha.

  • @fessalissa9852
    @fessalissa9852 3 місяці тому

    Nice video

  • @marysykes1562
    @marysykes1562 2 роки тому +2

    Loved your video 💖 I moved here 28 years ago From Austin Texas As a single parent with 4 kids my kids enjoyed the Snow for the 1st year now they're fed up with Snow that they're older and also have kids of their own Also I met my husband after 23 years And still growing strong he would like to move to Texas every now and then we go visit my familyI do not want to move back because because of traffic and and the cost of living and and also I have my kids and grandkids here and so does he every now and then my mom comes in visit but she won't visit in the snow she says it's too cold I guess you can't take her Away from Texas Away It is true you do see the 4 seasons that's the beautiful part of Iowa Des Moines Even though a lot of people still mistake Iowa from Is growing corn Not potatoesBut at the same time it is growing fast over here it's not fast paced right now that's that's what I love about it I do not miss the big cities that I was born and raised Don't get me wrong I still love Texas My heart will always be long there But I still love Des Moines Iowa it is a great place to be

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      Thanks for the kind words :) We just visited Texas in March and had a great time. Good people and so much to do…but yes, even though Iowa isn’t a giant tourist destination, it is a phenomenal place to raise kids and live every day life!

  • @eisas1184
    @eisas1184 2 роки тому +2

    Good stuff, planning to move but still havent decided yet- Have a question - Do you guys have any green bananas and taro etc like Polynesian food or Polynesian store thay sells them?

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому +2

      Hi! I’m not sure if there is a specific Polynesian food store, but I do know of a Filipino store that would probably sell the kind of food you’re looking for!

    • @tattoogoddess85
      @tattoogoddess85 2 роки тому

      Yes there are a few stores in Des Moines that do

  • @mikejoneswho24
    @mikejoneswho24 Рік тому

    Iam from Iowa left in the 5th grade lots of FAM still there now I reside in Texas definitely a culture shock

  • @tabithatierney6512
    @tabithatierney6512 Рік тому

    Casey’s pizza is the best! Living in Nebraska Casey’s is all over

  • @sn2601
    @sn2601 Рік тому

    Also, DSM is a great home airport. Currently building a new terminal that I predict will rival Charlotte, Indy or SLC.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Absolutely! I know the DSM airport very well :) Exciting times with the new terminals and flight options coming!

    • @MisterMcKinney
      @MisterMcKinney 11 місяців тому

      Is it bigger than Denver? I got lost at DSM! So confusing!!! My God!!

  • @elmocake2849
    @elmocake2849 Рік тому

    You forgot about sleepy hollow for winter fun. Can’t you ski there?

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Yes! Thanks. Not that I forgot…but it would be a 10 hour long video if included everything…haha! I love it there. I think Polk County just purchased it. It had been closed the last two winters due to Covid.

  • @sheilawhitmire2218
    @sheilawhitmire2218 2 роки тому

    I live in Texas and I'm considering Des Moines to relocate

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      They people are great in my opinion :) The cold and snow may be an adjusment for you if you haven't experienced it before...but as far a quality of life goes--its tough to beat Des Moines :)

  • @drewamasterpiece5268
    @drewamasterpiece5268 Рік тому

    Thanks for reminding me why I left 35 yrs ago! (Norwalk)
    Did I hear you use the word HIP !!??😂🤣😂
    Both of those actors mothers were teachers of mine.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Thanks for watching. Hope you found someplace that’s a better fit for ya :)
      (I’m not sure if I said hip or not…I hope not. I better go check. Lol)

  • @stevechow2992
    @stevechow2992 2 роки тому

    Visiting my friend in the Urbandale area. Got an Airbnb near Drake University, so we are excited to chill and be one with the locals.
    Greetings from Southern California :)
    P. S. WANT TO DEFINITELY GO TO FARMER'S MARKET!!! (Last week of September :).

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому +1

      Hope you have a great time, man! Farmers' Market runs every Saturday through October, so you should be good to go there!

    • @timothydake4098
      @timothydake4098 2 роки тому

      A little kept secret, since your going to be around Drake, go try drake dinner!! Awesome food and great atmosphere.
      It will remind of of old 50’s cafés but modern

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому +1

      @@timothydake4098 Absolutely! Ask for my friend, Tricia!

    • @imlostinmyhead
      @imlostinmyhead Рік тому +1

      Try not to get shot.

    • @reallyreal8055
      @reallyreal8055 Рік тому

      drake is a high crime neighborhood my dude

  • @alanstrong55
    @alanstrong55 Рік тому

    Stay off of University Ave, between MLK Blvd and 2nd Av. Sorry, Millie's Drive In is closed for good. Dez Monez.

  • @tommyjohnson9635
    @tommyjohnson9635 Рік тому

    Just made first road to Iowa from
    Texas , like every one else though
    Iowa was flat boy was I wrong,
    Started my trip from Dallas to
    Tulsa to Joplin to Kansas city
    From there NORTH TO IOWA
    LOVED EVERY MILE ,ENDING
    TRAVELS TO DES MOINES ,WENT
    TO THE FAIR, Fair was awsome,
    The town was awsome,loved the
    Sky line and river , while there
    Discovered the town of Winterset
    Close by where John Wayne was
    Born and they filmed Bridges of
    Madison County, got to see
    4 of 6 covered Bridges , the
    Bridges where built 1870 - 1883
    And are awsome, won't be my
    Last trip . Don't miss this diamond
    Of the midwest.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Thanks for the comment! I'm so glad you enjoyed your trip and your time in Iowa :) I also have a video on the Bridges of Madison County here if you want to check it out! ua-cam.com/video/Q80KpRj1AAA/v-deo.html
      I also have a Best of Iowa Playlist for next time you're in the area! ua-cam.com/play/PL4NWbeNPyUsCUkpRUXebUXXPGl8kA5IQC.html
      Have a great day!

  • @Felicity_NF2001
    @Felicity_NF2001 2 роки тому +1

    I moved here from another town in iowa with my husband, and need some tips on things to do. We have a lot of trouble deciding on what’s worth the $. Any tips would be great!

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому +1

      Welcome to Des Moines! Glad to have you :)
      Depending on what you like to do, Des Moines has a pretty good bike trail system now. Lots of bar/grills along the way! As mentioned in the video, the farmers market, State Fair, and Cubs games are good summer activities. If you check out my “best of Iowa” playlist, you’ll find some things within driving distance as well. You can also check out Des Moines park and rec for some activities like slow pitch softball or things to do at Grays Lake.
      Hope you enjoy your new move!

    • @Felicity_NF2001
      @Felicity_NF2001 2 роки тому

      @@TheWanderingFirefighter Thank you!! I’ll look into these. Have a great one.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      Thank you...you too!

  • @Ospery157
    @Ospery157 2 роки тому +1

    I lived in Des Moines for 10 months and will admit there are better paying and has a much stronger job market than the Quad-Cities (where I'm from). But, it's extremely clicky because many of the people there never move away and its a very family town. And it's God a full boring for nightlife. and social. I received a job offer from Denver, CO, and left. Much happier in the Rocky Mountains. And BTW, there are a lot, I mean a lot, of us ex-Iowans out here.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      I love the Denver area and I'm glad you found a spot you're happy in...but, me personally, I wouldn't want to live anywhere but Iowa full-time :) Probably has to do with the "family town" quality you mention :)

  • @tiabanks5585
    @tiabanks5585 Рік тому

    Born and raised in Des Moines you find your fun! Obviously better if you know people but you make it what it you want it to be!

  • @jonclark4378
    @jonclark4378 2 роки тому +1

    I lived in Des Moines for 29 of my 50 years, now I live in southern Iowa. In my experience I would say that about 50% of Iowans say "Soda". and I have never met another Iowan who calls a "Creek". a. "Crick". Otherwise this is spot on. Firefighters are awesom1

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому +1

      Thanks! And I’ll have to say I have only heard a handful call it soda and almost everyone I know calls it a crick…lol. All has to do with personal experiences I guess…haha!

    • @jonclark4378
      @jonclark4378 2 роки тому

      @@TheWanderingFirefighter To be honest, overall that is the best description of Des Moines I have ever heard on UA-cam.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      @@jonclark4378 Thank you, Jon. Your words are very much appreciated!

  • @ryanmcadams1737
    @ryanmcadams1737 2 години тому

    Newton guy here go Hawks

  • @mannyaldava9464
    @mannyaldava9464 Рік тому

    Are the suburbs as nice?

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Suburbs are growing like crazy and have most of the newer homes and businesses in the area. Most are pretty nice.

  • @js64514
    @js64514 2 роки тому

    You forgot the Knoxville Nationals sprint car race

  • @dougroe4042
    @dougroe4042 2 роки тому +1

    I once moved to Metro Des Moines… stayed there for some years too, and I can tell you right now he is wrong about the people. Everybody there is super grumpy and rude..and they’re assholes on the road too. It is also pretty boreing, and living downtown isn’t worth it. Nothing down there at those prices is worth it🤦🏻‍♂️… not shitting on Iowa though it’s not a bad place it’s just not for everybody. The suburban areas are a perfect place for raising kids/starting a family!

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      Sounds like you hung out in the wrong places or with the wrong people, Doug :( Sorry you had a bad experience.

  • @imlostinmyhead
    @imlostinmyhead Рік тому +1

    I've lived here for 28 years. I heard my first drive-by shooting and encountered the most racist people right after I moved here. The people can be horribly rude. The phrase "Iowa Nice" is 100% false in the cities. In fact, Des Moines was voted the "#1 city with the rudest drivers in the U.S." Property taxes are also outrageous. I didn't realize this until I compared with friends in other states. I will say life in the country is idealistic. The people in the rural areas are definitely Iowa Nice. The biggest problem with living in the country is the lack of jobs. Des Moines does have a great job market. A lot of people live in the country, and commute to Des Moines. If you want to know how "nice" people in Iowa are, read through the comments on any local news story.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Or read the comments on any news story in any state or in any place in the world on any subject…or on a UA-cam video…lol.
      I must say that I have been very intrigued with the differing experiences people have had. I guess differing opinions occurs for any other location in the world as well.

  • @peculiar5422
    @peculiar5422 11 місяців тому

    How’s the diversity in ethnicities?

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  11 місяців тому

      About 70% White, 12% Black, 10% Hispanic, 7% Asian, and 1% Other
      Depending on your source…lol…but I’d say that’s pretty accurate.

  • @alanstrong55
    @alanstrong55 Рік тому

    Watch your speed. Urbandale, Dizzy Heights, Clive, and West Des Moines police watch all to closely. 26 in a 25 will get you snagged. FYI.

  • @gregwatson8219
    @gregwatson8219 Рік тому +1

    Bonnie& Clyde put ur town on map!

  • @MisterMcKinney
    @MisterMcKinney 11 місяців тому +1

    The instate layout sucks! I-35 doesn’t go true north for at least 10 miles if you’re going to Minnesota!!! My god!!!

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  11 місяців тому +1

      Because most interstates go true directions across the country…haha. Not sure of the relevance though :)

  • @AllAboutElle
    @AllAboutElle Рік тому

    They tricker treat in literally every city in every state..what the hell

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Thanks for watching, Noelle! Do they tell jokes? I’ve been told by people from literally every city in every state that they don’t. That’s the difference. You can watch again to see :)

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Here’s this article saying jokes while trick or treating dates back to Des Moines in the 1940s for your reading pleasure. I appreciate your interaction :)
      www.nydailynews.com/news/national/midwest-halloween-tradition-calls-jokes-wrote-article-1.2844718

  • @terrdoggs
    @terrdoggs 2 роки тому

    Plus the best furs come from Rome, Paris and Des Moines

  • @mopbrothers
    @mopbrothers Рік тому

    Does Des Moines have many single ladies in their 20s and 30s?

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Well I'm far beyond that age range nowaydays..lol..but there seems to be! And I know Des Moines has a 100 females for every 97 males, so you're already ahead there! haha

  • @elliejo2049
    @elliejo2049 2 роки тому

    Hey the Carlisle school that’s my school

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      Yeah?? Go Cats!

    • @williameggers4650
      @williameggers4650 2 роки тому

      The video is accurate. I would have liked to hear about attending an Iowa Wild game

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому +1

      Great idea! And we can't leave the good 'ol Des Moines Buccaneers out of the conversation! So many good memories watching those games!

  • @goofusmaximusII
    @goofusmaximusII Рік тому

    There was a survey on UA-cam ranking us as one of the more unkind to people states, go figure.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      Would love to see that. Do you have a link? Results would be very surprising to me as I’ve been to a lot of places with a lot more rude people…haha

  • @bennettdurham-kline6144
    @bennettdurham-kline6144 2 роки тому

    You forgot about tge wrestling tournament

  • @TheManFromKansas
    @TheManFromKansas 2 роки тому

    The problem with Des MoINES, is there is not a lot 2 do there, other than the state fair, but that happens just once a year, the real problem is they don't have any professional sports teams,i could see if they have a championship college basketball or football team, but they don't even have that. they don't have a amusement park. my take on the visit i had there was, it's a nice place 2 visit, but not 2 live

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      I guess I have an opposite view. Not a whole lot to visit but a tremendous place to live :) I can go visit busy places but at the end of the day, I like my quieter home to live in :) I would hate to live somewhere busy…especially with traffic. To each their own, though! (oh, and we have an amusement park and water park in Altoona, just outside of Des Moines :) )

    • @evets9275
      @evets9275 2 роки тому

      Des Moines does have professional sports teams but they are minor league franchises. The I-Chubs, I mean Cubs, was mentioned in the video. It's not the MLB Cubs but it's their Triple A team, the top Minor League Baseball team in their organization. Same goes for professional hockey. The Iowa Wild is the top Minor League Hockey team of the NHL Minnesota Wild organization. You can often see MLB or NHL players on injury rehab playing with the Iowa Cubs/Iowa Wild or their opponents. Talking about no amusement parks. Have you not heard of Adventureland in Altoona?

  • @endebtedone
    @endebtedone Рік тому

    I must have watched the wrong video about the great things of Des Moines.

  • @violetgibson9
    @violetgibson9 2 роки тому

    Great video.
    I get your daughter’s joke. It doesn’t make sense. That guarantees a laugh, especially told by kids.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      Haha! I still die laughing thinking about the reactions from all the people she told it to.

  • @reallyreal8055
    @reallyreal8055 Рік тому

    i'd say the one real downside is major drug problems throughout iowa. especially meth.

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому

      I’ve traveled all over the country and see the worse of Des Moines in my job…I can say with confidence that drugs aren’t just an Iowa problem, unfortunately :(

  • @candissparker2608
    @candissparker2608 2 роки тому

    you're pretty cute! Are you married?

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  2 роки тому

      Haha! Thanks for that :) Yes, I have been happily married for closing in on two decades! Lol

  • @3Bud
    @3Bud Рік тому

    please dont ever talk about pizza again 😂

    • @TheWanderingFirefighter
      @TheWanderingFirefighter  Рік тому +1

      It’s basically all I talk about. Haha!

    • @3Bud
      @3Bud Рік тому

      @The Wandering Firefighter it's a good thing to talk about. I'm from NJ so there's so much amazing pizza. Des Moines... not so much 🤣

  • @mzindelo
    @mzindelo 2 роки тому +1

    Dead Moines ... it was, is and always will be lame

  • @patsmart4830
    @patsmart4830 Рік тому

    Did not like video and I am from iowa

  • @midget9629
    @midget9629 Рік тому

    Des moines is in the top 3 worst places in iowa. Only beaten by the quad cities and waterloo.

  • @04CISKOKIDD
    @04CISKOKIDD 5 місяців тому

    Casey's pizza is 🗑️