Working in Downtown Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) not only offers opportunities for exploring, events and entertainment, it’s also a bustling place to work. Many of the region’s major employers have a presence in Downtown DSM, as does the startup and entrepreneur scene.

Find Jobs in Downtown DSM

Downtown: A Workforce Hub

Thousands of people currently work in Downtown DSM at corporations like Wellabe, Cognizant, Dotdash Meredith, EMC Insurance, Global Atlantic,  LOCALiQ Des Moines Register, Nationwide, Principal, Ruan Companies/Bankers Trust, Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Iowa, Wells Fargo & Co. and many others.

Working in Downtown Des Moines is easy to navigate and quick to traverse and plenty is packed into the city blocks.

Past Meets Present Meets Future

As the place where Des Moines got its start, Downtown DSM is rich in history. But it’s also the pulse of the region’s present and future. Alongside beautifully preserved historical buildings and regional icons, you’ll find forward-thinking companies, people and programs.

Downtown Amenities Make Life Easy

One of the perks of working Downtown is the nearby access to services. You can head to a doctor’s appointment or drop your car off for a tune-up and make it back to the office for your next meeting. Check out these Downtown DSM conveniences and services that make life a little easier. Plus, check out all the places where you can shop local in Downtown DSM. 

 

Socialize and Eat

There's no shortage of good food for every work occasion in Downtown Des Moines, whether you're looking for a quick lunch, after-dinner drinks, a mid-day coffee break or an impressive spot to take clients. Below is a sampling of Downtown restaurants, drinks venues and other eateries. Check out our full guide to Downtown Restaurants and Nightlife and the regional business directory for more options.

Recreation and Events

Stay active and have fun while working in Downtown Des Moines. Check out these options for recreation and special events you won't want to miss during the workday.

Skywalk Access

Stretching from the Iowa Events Center to the Historic Court District and the eastern edge of Western Gateway, the 4-mile Skywalk System provides a convenient way to get around Downtown Des Moines, no matter the weather. Signage throughout the Skywalk guides visitors and workers to and from their destinations.

Parking and Accessibility

Parking options are robust in Downtown DSM and many employers have dedicated company ramps or dedicated spots in public ramps for their employees.

Download the Park DSM app to pay for parking and use the City of Des Moines parking map to find parking locations near your destination. Plus, the City of Des Moines also has a map of current road closures and constructions spots and email alerts to help you plan your best route around Downtown.

I-235 connects to I-80/35 and runs the length of Downtown DSM, providing ready access and quick commutes to anywhere in the region.

Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) provides another way to commute and get around Downtown DSM. Many commuter lines service the suburbs and transport into Downtown. The D-Line route is a free shuttle that runs in a loop, every 15 minutes, from the Iowa State Capitol complex in the Historic East Village to the Western Gateway Park.

Operation Downtown - Keeping Downtown Clean, Safe, Beautiful and Welcoming

Operation Downtown plays a vital role in ensuring Downtown DSM is vibrant and welcoming. Operation Downtown's Ambassadors work behind the scenes to keep the city safe and clean, lending a helping hand to people throughout Downtown DSM.

Living Downtown is Great, Too

Skip the commute and make the move to Downtown DSM. Learn more about housing, amenities and other features that make living Downtown DSM vibrant and accessible.