Attractions and Places To See in Polk County - Top 16
Attractions and places to see in Polk County, Iowa, offer a diverse range of outdoor and cultural experiences. Situated around the Des Moines River and several notable lakes, the region provides extensive opportunities for recreation. Visitors can explore a network of trails, expansive parks, and significant landmarks that highlight both natural beauty and local heritage. This area is characterized by its accessible natural spaces and urban green areas, making it suitable for various activities.
Best attractions and places to see…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
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Neal Smith Trail
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Saylorville Lake Visitor Center
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Brown's Woods
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Trestle to Trestle Trail
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Big Creek State Park
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Gray's Lake Park
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Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens
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Principal Riverwalk
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Polk City Junction Oasis Gazebo
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Tips from the Community
A small Asian-style garden alongside the Des Moines River, the Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens features pagodas, stone sculptures, small ponds, waterfalls, and picturesque bridges.
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The Principal Riverwalk is a smooth, scenic pathway along the Des Moines River, perfect if you're looking to explore downtown. Its well-paved paths and pedestrian bridges connect key districts, making it an excellent route for both casual spins and fast-paced rides. The city views and riverside breeze make it a great place to stretch your legs on two wheels.
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This gazebo is a nice spot for a mid-ride break. The Oasis sits along the High Trestle trail and has a picnic table, water fountains, and restrooms.
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The Saylorville Lake Visitor Center is located at the southeast corner of the lake and offers a variety of scheduled events, a theater, several interactive displays, and a selection of maps. A butterfly garden is also a short walk away.
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Brown's Woods, in West Des Moines, is the state's largest urban forest, encompassing 486 acres of mature oak and hickory trees. The area offers over 4 miles of moderate hiking trails, including the Gateway Trail (0.5 miles), Preparation Loop (0.5 miles), Wilderness Loop (1.4 miles), and North Loop (2 miles). These trails all traverse rolling hills and small streams in forested environment. The preserve also serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds during spring and fall, attracting species such as warblers and vireos, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. This is also a popular spot with foragers; visitors are permitted to collect nuts, fruits, or edible mushrooms for non-commercial use, provided the plants are not harmed. However, activities like removing plants, hunting, trapping animals, and cutting wood are prohibited. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a six-foot leash, and owners are reminded to clean up after their pets.
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The Trestle to Trestle Trail goes from Des Moines to Johnston. It is a fairly short trail at 3.7 miles long but it is a very good connector trail. It runs past some heavily wooded forests and the Des Moines River on the way so the scenery is great. It is also a good quality asphalt trail.
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Gray's Lake Park has a total size of 166-acres and is located in the heart of Des Moines. The lake of the same name is the park's main feature and is surrounded by a path for cycling and hiking. One of the highlights is the bridge that crosses the lake, as it can be illuminated in the evening and nighttime.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular trails for walking and cycling in Polk County?
Polk County offers several well-loved trails for both walking and cycling. The Neal Smith Trail is a 26-mile paved, traffic-free path along the Des Moines River, ideal for navigating the city while enjoying river views. Another great option is the Trestle to Trestle Trail, which is also popular for families. For a scenic urban experience, the Principal Riverwalk provides beautiful views along the Des Moines River.
Are there easy hiking options in Polk County?
Yes, Polk County has several easy hiking options. You can explore trails within Brown's Woods for a forest experience. Additionally, many sections of the Neal Smith Trail and the paths around Gray's Lake Park are suitable for easy walks. For more specific routes, you can find several easy hikes listed in the Easy hikes in Polk County guide.
Where can I find dog-friendly trails in Polk County?
Many outdoor areas in Polk County welcome dogs. Brown's Woods is a noted dog-friendly forest. The Principal Riverwalk also allows dogs, making it a great spot for a stroll with your canine companion. Always remember to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them.
What kind of natural areas can I explore in Polk County?
Polk County offers diverse natural settings. You can visit Big Creek State Park, which features the largest lake in the Iowa State Park system, complete with a swimming beach and trails. Gray's Lake Park provides a large lake surrounded by walking and biking paths. For a more secluded forest experience, Brown's Woods is an excellent choice.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Polk County?
Absolutely! Polk County has several attractions suitable for families. Big Creek State Park and Gray's Lake Park both offer amenities like swimming beaches, picnic areas, and paved paths perfect for families. The Trestle to Trestle Trail and Principal Riverwalk are also great for family walks or bike rides. The Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens provide a peaceful and visually engaging experience for all ages.
What cultural or historic sites can I visit in Polk County?
Polk County features a few notable sites with cultural and historic significance. The Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge is an iconic pedestrian bridge that honors notable women from Iowa's history. The Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens offer a beautiful cultural landmark with views of the river.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths or attractions?
Yes, several attractions in Polk County are wheelchair accessible. The Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge, Neal Smith Trail, and Principal Riverwalk all feature accessible paths. The Saylorville Lake Visitor Center and Gray's Lake Park also provide wheelchair-friendly facilities and routes.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Beyond walking and cycling, Polk County offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, including the challenging Raccoon River Valley Trail Loop or the moderate Neal Smith Trail, detailed in the Road Cycling Routes in Polk County guide. For hikers, there are many options from easy to more challenging, which you can explore in the Hiking in Polk County guide. Many parks also offer picnicking and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
What do visitors enjoy most about Polk County's attractions?
Visitors particularly appreciate the extensive network of trails that allow for both urban exploration and natural escapes. The fully paved and traffic-free nature of trails like the Neal Smith Trail is highly valued for its accessibility and scenic river views. The Saylorville Lake Visitor Center is praised for its interactive displays and the nearby butterfly garden, offering both learning and natural beauty.
Are there any unique viewpoints in Polk County?
Yes, Polk County offers several scenic viewpoints. The Saylorville Lake Visitor Center provides excellent views of the lake. The Gray's Lake Park features a bridge that crosses the lake, offering picturesque views, especially when illuminated at night. The Principal Riverwalk also provides various vantage points along the Des Moines River.
Where can I find parking for attractions in Polk County?
Many of Polk County's attractions offer convenient parking. For instance, Big Creek State Park has dedicated parking facilities. For urban attractions and trails, parking is generally available near trailheads or park entrances. It's always a good idea to check specific attraction websites for the most up-to-date parking information.
Most popular routes in Polk County
Most popular attractions in Polk County
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