From world-class restaurants to boutique storefronts and beautifully-landscaped parks, there’s no doubt that Downtown Des Moines is one of the most popular places to live in the city. The best part? Everything in this eclectic, bustling neighborhood is within walking distance. 

Living in Downtown Des Moines is much more than just a convenience; it's a lifestyle. Whether you work close-by, from home, or further out, when you are home at the end of a busy day, or on the weekends, all the city's best events, restaurants, and attractions are just a stroll away. And while walking everywhere is primarily convenient, it offers a host of other benefits, too. 

Here's how walking is great for the environment, your health, and your sense of community in Downtown Des Moines. 

HELP THE ENVIRONMENT

Fewer cars on the roads mean less air and noise pollution. The air you breathe is cleaner, and birds and other animals that benefit the environment are not as easily rattled from their natural habitats. In a dense downtown area like Des Moines, everything we can do to preserve our natural green spaces not only helps the environment remain balanced but enables us and future generations to enjoy our beautiful parks and green spaces.

IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH

This is obvious, but walking every day is great exercise! Even if you're walking to sit in your favorite restaurant or bar, it's important to get your heart rate going for at least 30 minutes a day. In Downtown Des Moines, whether it's walking to get groceries, taking an after-dinner stroll, or going for a walk on any of the nearby trails, you're bound to get much more than half an hour a day. And that's a great thing for your health.

BOOST THE ECONOMY

Have you noticed that when you are walking in another country on vacation, you're more inclined to stop at interesting shops and restaurants? The same is true of your local community. Strolling through Downtown Des Moines, where storefronts are clustered together, encourages you to stop, dine in, or grab an interesting piece of home decor, all of which contribute to a healthier local economy.

BUILD COMMUNITY

Of course, walking builds community, because it gives you the opportunity to speak with neighbors, store owners, city workers, and others. The more people you know in your neighborhood, the easier it is to work together to accomplish tasks and initiatives to make it an even better place to live. 

Walking just feels good, and that's what living in Downtown Des Moines is all about.

New Homes in Downtown Des Moines

If you're interested in living in a walkable neighborhood in Downtown Des Moines, check out these new home communities from Hubbell Homes:

The Banks

• 861 E 2nd St., Des Moines
• Luxury townhomes from the upper $500’s

Gray's Station

• 528 SW 12th St., Des Moines
• Townhomes from the mid-$400s