If you only have one day in Des Moines, resist the temptation to spend it driving between every attraction on a top-ten list. The center of the city is compact enough to build a day around a few areas and actually experience them.
Morning: Capitol and East Village
Start at the Iowa State Capitol while the day is still fresh. Walk the grounds and, if timing works, see the interior. Continue to the State Historical Museum of Iowa or head directly into the Historic East Village for coffee and a look around the independent shops.
Lunch and downtown
Cross toward downtown for lunch. If it is a Saturday during market season, the Downtown Farmers’ Market can become the morning centerpiece instead. Otherwise, use the Court District or central downtown as your transition west.
Afternoon: art and open space
Walk through Pappajohn Sculpture Park, then choose between more city time or a short trip to Gray’s Lake. The latter is especially welcome after several hours on downtown sidewalks.
Evening
Finish with dinner somewhere that interests you rather than chasing another attraction. If you want a specifically local dish, look for an Iowa pork tenderloin or Steak de Burgo. One day will not show you everything, but this route gives a good introduction to the city’s history, neighborhoods, art and food without turning Des Moines into a race.