Des Moines, Iowa
As the capital of Iowa, Des Moines is the hub of government action, business activity and cultural affairs in the state of Iowa. With a Metro population of over 450,000, Des Moines, Iowa is a bustling metropolis and a great place to call home. Boasting a big city bustle and a small town atmosphere, Des Moines is the perfect place for families and individuals looking for the best of both worlds. The rich, engaging community offers residence quality schools, superb public services and friendly neighborhoods. Des Moines, Iowa is one of the countries secret treasures, and a great moving destination.
Economy:
Des Moines moving companies are busy bringing in new residents for exciting job opportunities. And it's no wonder why with a strong economy that is made up of manufacturing, wholesale, retail, insurance and financial services, and agribusiness sectors. Manufacturing contributes a moderate percentage of the city's total employment base; however, these contributions play a significant impact on the city’s economy: Manufacturing, traditionally, purchase supplies locally, this generates more local jobs and helps to stabilize the economy. Some of the area's biggest manufacturers are Maytag and Amana appliances, Pella windows and Rockwell Collins avionics equipment. Des Moines is also considered a major insurance center. Nearly 70 insurance companies are headquartered in Des Moines, and the regional offices of 100 other firms located in the metropolitan area.
History:
The city of Des Moines was founded with the building of Fort Des Moines in 1843. Today, debate continues surrounding the true origin of the name of Iowa's largest city. The Iowa River Valley was opened to new settlers in 1845, and a year later, when Iowa gained statehood, the population of Fort Des Moines was less than 200 residents. Des Moines officially became the state capital in January 1858, and during the end of the nineteenth century, wood-frame buildings in Des Moines underwent extensive renovation. The remarkable state capitol building, situated on an 80-acre park and featuring a gold-gilded central dome, was completed in 1884. In the 1880s and 1890s, wealthy residence built mansions, and the city's cultural life continued to flourish.
Tourism:
Don’t be fooled by Des Moines cozy location. Iowa offers plenty of things to do for the traveler, or local looking for a fresh adventure. Des Moines is home four professional minor league teams. The Iowa Barnstormers (arena football) and the Iowa Energy, (basketball) both play at the city’s Wells Fargo Arena. The Iowa Cubs baseball team and the Des Moines Menace soccer team also call Des Moines home. Des Moines is a diverse, multi-faceted metropolitan area where the theatre, arts, symphony and opera overflow with excellence. The city is notorious for the excellent Living History Farms, the Iowa State Fair, America's classic state fair. For family activities, go to the brilliantly landscaped Blank Park Zoo or visit the Iowa Historical Building and learn about the city and state’s prosperous history. Next, check out the Science Center of Iowa: The center presents both hands-on exhibits and demonstrations on physical and life sciences to visitor and is a hit for all ages. Finally, let your hair down and experience Adventure Land’s more than 100 rides and attractions, including four great roller coasters are located nearby in the city of Altoona.
Colleges/Universities:
• Drake University
• Grand View University
• Upper Iowa University
• William Penn University
• Simpson College
Interesting Facts:
• Des Moines has been dubbed the third largest insurance capital of the world after London, England and Hartford, Connecticut.
• The downtown skywalk system is nearly four miles long, the second most miles of skywalk per capita in North America, after Calgary, Alberta Canada.
• Des Moines has a 19.2 minute average commute time, one of the lowest for a city of our size.
Helpful Links:
• City of Des Moines
• Des Moines Dental Offices
• Des Moines Storage Facility
• Des Moines Moving Guide