http://www.relocateamerica.com/iowa/cities/des-moines As Iowa's capitol city, Des Moines is a hub of government action, business activity and cultural affairs. With a Metro population of 456,000, Des Moines is a bustling metropolis. But though we have big city bustle, we're extremely proud of our small town atmosphere. Our community offers quality schools, superb public services, and friendly neighborhoods. Truly the best of both worlds! As Iowa's capital city, Des Moines is a hub of government action, arts and cultural affairs. With a City population approaching 200,000 and a metro population of nearly 500,000, Des Moines offers some of the nation's best schools, superb public services, and friendly, caring neighborhoods.
Attractions:
Des Moines is a place of city sizzle and simple pleasures, offering something for everyone. We're home to one-of-a-kind attractions, unforgettable events, arts and entertainment. For family adventure, the Iowa State Fair, White Water University, National Balloon Classic and Blank Park Zoo captivate the senses. View the passion of renowned artists in the outstanding collection of works at the Des Moines Art Center or take a hands-on approach at the Science Center of Iowa. Witness the progression of Iowa agricultural at a living history museum or view government in action beneath the majestic capitol's 23-karat gold dome.
In metro Des Moines, amazing sights await your discovery. Architectural buffs will be amazed by the Victorian opulence of the governor's home and by a 42-room Tudor mansion nestled in a residential neighborhood. Just minutes outside the city, embrace the romance at picturesque Madison County.
No matter if it's summertime fun, an autumn escape or holiday magic you're after, the attractions of Greater Des Moines invite all thrill-seekers for an unforgettable adventure!
Schools:
Des Moines offers an excellent opportunity for students to enrich their education through Drake University! Drake and Des Moines are a great match - and they've enjoyed a mutually advantageous relationship since the University was founded in 1881. Drake offers citizens learning and information resources, faculty expertise, cultural perspectives, entertainment and athletic excitement. Des Moines offers students and alumni plenty of employment, dining, shopping and recreational opportunities as well as additional cultural, artistic and entertainment options.
Drake and Des Moines are also connected through the city's business and civic leaders, many of whom are Drake alumni and friends. They form a dynamic network of professionals and volunteers who work together for the success of the University and central Iowa at the same time they reflect a wide variety of interests and activities.
So enjoy Des Moines - and explore! Fuel up with some meatloaf and a malt at the Drake Diner or savor the peanut sauce at Taste of Thailand. Take in the 3,500 works by more than 1,600 artists in the Des Moines Art Center's permanent collection, take in a production at one of several local playhouses or take it easy under the 300 varieties of flowering crabapple trees in Water Works Park. Ponder democracy under the Iowa State Capital Building's 22-carat gold dome or shop in West Des Moines' historic Valley Junction. Volunteer your time, contribute your talents and put your abilities to work - both Drake University and Des Moines welcome you and your ideas!
http://www.relocateamerica.com/iowa/cities/spencer Welcome to Spencer, Iowa! Spencer is an enterprising city where country charm and a modern lifestyle go hand in hand. Unlike much of Iowa, the lovely, rolling farmlands of this northwest corner of the state are dotted with picturesque lakes and wooded shorelines. It is a landscape enhanced by the historic buildings of the downtown area and the town's personable cultural flair. With a comfortable lifestyle, low crime and abundant recreation areas, Spencer is a great town with a lot going for it.
It comes as no surprise that Spencer is listed in The 100 Best Small Art Towns in America. At the center of the local arts scene is Arts On Grand. One of the town's biggest tourist attractions, Arts On Grand also puts on exhibits, classes, and special events year-round.
Only a 15 minute drive away from Iowa's Great Lakes region, Spencer couldn't be better situated for year-round fun. Residents can enjoy beautiful biking and skiing trails, picturesque campgrounds, and terrific bass fishing. Just point your car in practically any direction, and you'll find a promising lake. The natural beauty of the town's surroundings combines with the thriving cultural to make the Spencer area a first-rate vacation spot.
There are also many municipal resources available. The area features two golf courses, with 18 more within less than an hour's travel. There are also plenty of city parks providing tennis courts, nature trails and playing fields.
With so much to recommend it, it's no wonder people are attracted to Spencer. With people come more business, and the economy is flourishing. The agricultural, retail and recreational sectors are booming, and yet the cost of living is below the national average.
Spencer seems to have it all. In addition to a healthy lifestyle, residents enjoy excellent health care and a safe environment. For all these reasons, Spencer is one of the most appealing towns in Iowa.
Source: spencer-ia.com
