Iowa State Capitol West Terrace
Interactive Park Map
About the Location
Green Space Transformation
The Iowa State Capitol West Terrace is located on the grounds of the Iowa State Capitol Complex in Des Moines, Iowa. It is part of a larger landscaping project that transformed former parking lots into a public green space. The terrace serves as a gathering place for community events and offers views of the Iowa State Capitol building.
The West Capitol Terrace project was completed in phases, with the initial work beginning in the mid-2000s. The area includes walkways, ramps, flowers, and native grasses.
Notable Features
One notable feature is a series of benches, each dedicated to an Iowa Governor. These commemorative benches provide visitors with places to rest while honoring the state's political history.
The terrace includes a stage that is used for various public events, including concerts and ceremonies. For example, the Des Moines Symphony holds its annual Yankee Doodle Pops concert at this location.
Community Events
The stage has also been used for commemorative events, such as the 100th anniversary celebration of the Indian Citizenship Act in 2024.
The West Capitol Terrace is part of a broader effort to create more pedestrian-friendly spaces around the Capitol and to strengthen the connection between the State Capitol Complex and downtown Des Moines.
