West Des Moines offers different options for a stay: in Historic Valley Junction, a compact, level business district that is easy to explore on foot and its history shape the visit; at Blue Heron Lake & Beach, you can choose from waterfront activities. First consider whether you’d rather include shops and culture or waterfront activities and trails in your travel plans.
Valley Junction: Shops and History
Historic Valley Junction is compact, level and easy to explore on foot. Its offerings include antique and gift shops, clothing and home accessory boutiques, restaurants, art galleries and experience studios. This makes it easy to combine a stroll with shopping, dining and art. Individual businesses may change over time.
The original business center has continued to develop since its beginnings in the 19th century. Valley Junction was officially established in 1893; Fifth Street became the main thoroughfare of the business district. In 2025, a total of 53 properties in the Valley Junction Commercial Historic District were considered contributing historic properties. This figure refers to 2025 and may change.
Farmers markets, car shows and live music are associated with Historic Valley Junction. If you’d like to include one of these events in your plans, check in advance whether an event is scheduled for your travel dates.
The main core of the Historic West Des Moines business district is designated as a National Historic District.
Waterfront Activities
Swimming, fishing and non-motorized boating are available at Blue Heron Lake & Beach. At Raccoon River Park, kayaks, canoes and paddleboards are available for seasonal rental at the boathouse. The rental options therefore include specific watercraft, while the lake and beach offer three different activities. Rentals are seasonal; check locally for availability before your visit.
Trails and Getting Around
West Des Moines’s trail network connects to more than 550 miles of trails. The Jordan Creek Trail runs just south of Valley Junction. The trail network connection describes a broader area; the Jordan Creek Trail is a specific trail south of the district.
Getting to Valley Junction
Service to Valley Junction by DART Crosstown Route 4 was scheduled to begin on June 14, 2026. The stop was to be at Fifth Street and Vine Street at the north end of the district. Check current schedules and stop information before traveling.
Choose Accommodation Based on Your Travel Interests
When looking for a hotel in West Des Moines, start with the experiences you want to prioritize: historic shops and art in Historic Valley Junction, waterfront activities or trails. A visit focused on Valley Junction calls for different priorities than plans centered on the water or trails. Compare the specific hotel location with the places that matter to your stay.
Explore more destinations: Des Moines, Urbandale, Ankeny, Grimes, Clive, Johnston
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