West Des Moines: Valley Junction and Raccoon River
Accommodation in West Des Moines
West Des Moines offers the historic Valley Junction district and water recreation at Blue Heron Lake and in Raccoon River Park. These destinations are not all located at the same starting point.
Historic Valley Junction
Valley Junction was officially founded in 1893; Fifth Street became the main thoroughfare of the business district. In 2025, a total of 53 properties in the Valley Junction Commercial Historic District were considered contributing historic properties. Historic Valley Junction is best explored on foot and offers antique and gift shops, clothing and home accessories boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, and experiential studios. Valley Junction is compact, flat, and easy to explore on foot. The figure of 53 contributing historic properties refers specifically to 2025; shops and events may change.
Trails and water
Swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating are available at Blue Heron Lake & Beach. Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards are rented seasonally at the boathouse in Raccoon River Park. West Des Moines has more than 60 miles of trails. Boat rentals are described as seasonal. Check conditions for swimming, fishing, and trails for your travel dates.
Compare accommodation locations and routes to the destination you actually choose. A planned bus route is not presented as a current travel option without confirmation that it is operating today.
For the main travel overview: Polk.
