Des Moines

The shopping experiences in East Village (http://eastvillagedesmoin...) can be described as progressive, as it's a pedestrian friendly area downtown which offers a variety of small businesses and boutiques. The streets are nicely lined and there's much to do after hours to fill a hungry traveler's stomach. In West Des Moines, the historic Valley Junction (http://www.valleyjunction.com/) is also an outdoor line-up of shops and local businesses with much to offer, including live music and art and craft fairs throughout the year. Jordan Creek Town Center (http://www.jordancreektow...) and Valley West Mall (http://www.valleywestmall...) both lie in West Des Moines, the former being the state's largest shopping mall with a variety of stores and entertainment, including ice skating in the winter. Merle Hay Mall (http://www.merlehaymall.com/) and Southridge Mall (http://www.shopsouthridge...) rest on the northwest and southeast corners of the city, respectfully. Altoona, on the east side, will have an enclosed outdoor shopping experience available once The Shoppes at Prairie Crossing is completed.