Though the center part of downtown is generally characterized by office space, a recent transformation has begun in the center of downtown.
Many of the areas high rise buildings are slowly being converted into apartments, creating an urban neighborhood unlike any other in Des Moines.
Central Downtown contains a large downtown mall known as the Kaleidoscope at the HUB, though it has struggled in recent years to remain viable and will soon be demolished to be replaced by a high rise apartment building.
Central Downtown also uses a unique skywalk system that connects nearly every building in the district on the third floor crossing city streets.
Several notable, highly visible buildings are located within the district including 801 Grand and the EMC Insurance Building.
Additionally, the Des Moines Performing Arts is located within this district and boasts a nearly 5,000 seat performing arts space.

Since 2013, the City of Des Moines has been planning a revitalization of the Walnut Street Corridor.
The city envisions a walkable, urban pathway dotted with high end retail and restaurants.
Public gathering and green space will be included to complement the completion of the newly renovated Cowles Commons.
Though the center part of downtown is generally characterized by office space, a recent transformation has begun in the center of downtown. Many of the areas high rise buildings are slowly being converted into apartments, creating an urban neighborhood unlike any other in Des Moines. Central Downtown contains a large downtown mall known as the Kaleidoscope at the HUB, though it has struggled in recent years to remain viable and will soon be demolished to be replaced by a high rise apartment building. Central Downtown also uses a unique skywalk system that connects nearly every building in the district on the third floor crossing city streets. Several notable, highly visible buildings are located within the district including 801 Grand and the EMC Insurance Building. Additionally, the Des Moines Performing Arts is located within this district and boasts a nearly 5,000 seat performing arts space.
Since 2013, the City of Des Moines has been planning a revitalization of the Walnut Street Corridor. The city envisions a walkable, urban pathway dotted with high end retail and restaurants. Public gathering and green space will be included to complement the completion of the newly renovated Cowles Commons.
Downtown Des Moines