$164,453Average Value$127Average Price per Sq Ft13Homes For Sale
Historical community with nearby amenities
The historic community of Capitol Park is one of Des Moines' oldest neighborhoods. The Des Moines River flows through the heart of Capitol Park, and the pedestrian bridges of the John Pat Dorrian Trail provide walkable access to the rest of the greater Des Moines downtown area. The streets in Capitol Park are lined with mature walnut, sugar maple and white ash trees, casting shadows over the sidewalks and the cars parked along the wide two-way streets. Semi-paved alleys between most houses provide off-street access to alley-facing garages, covered carports and backyard vegetable gardens. "We're an overlooked gem," says Dena Bennett, chair of the Capitol City Neighborhood Association and 10-year resident. "People move here because of the affordability, diversity and proximity to downtown and East Village."
The proximity of Capitol Park to Downtown Des Moines makes it very soughtafter.
Art installations near the Botanical Gardens greet joggers and bikers on the riverfront trail.
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Historic homes, modern amenities
The oldest homes were built in the late 1800s, and architectural styles, like Prairie and Craftsman, reflect the era. Listing prices run between $68,000 and $311,000. Some of the larger homes have been converted into multi-family dwellings, creating a housing market in which properties sell for roughly $50,000 less than the surrounding neighborhoods. "There's a little bit of everything for every budget," Bennett says. Most residents park in driveways, and lots are around 1/8 acre, suitable for a sitting area.
Large Foursquare homes are a popular style in Capitol Park.
Colorful Craftsman homes can be found in quiet corners of Capitol Park.
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Locals can visit the rocket slide
One of the area's most renowned destinations is the rocket slide at nearby Union Park. Constructed in the early 70s, at the height of the space craze, the rocket slide is the last remaining vestige of Astro City. This space-age amusement park quickly became infamous for its high-speed stainless-steel slide, steep stairs, low clearances, sharp edges and general non-compliance with contemporary safety codes. In early 2024, the Des Moines City Council approved a half-million-dollar project to rejuvenate the 52-year-old beloved relic. In addition to the slide, the walkable Union Park has playgrounds, tennis courts, open-air pavilions, sports fields, splash pools and the Heritage Carousel. Capitol Park is a rare downtown community where green spaces dominate the landscape. On the community's southern edge, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden features indoor and outdoor gardens, a tropical conservatory, educational programs and art shows, all at no cost to residents. Local pups love the Riverwalk Dog Park, and kids spend summer afternoons running through the fountains at Burke Memorial Park. The neighborhood also provides indoor entertainment options. The Iowa State Capitol Building is open for tours on rainy days, and Wooly's concert venue regularly books national acts for weekend performances.
The historic Rocket Slide in Union Park in Capitol Park is the last remaining element of Des Moines' Astro City which debuted more than 50 years ago
Nearby Union Park has modern playgrounds and plenty of open green space.
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden in Capitol Park allows residents to experience a variety of exotic flora year round
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Dining in historic building
Locals can do their grocery shopping at C Fresh in nearby Cheatom Park. One of Bennett's favorite restaurants is Thai Flavors. Other popular eateries include Scooter's Coffee for their signature drinks and Teriyaki House for their sushi rolls. The pool tables at The Fremont – a cash-only dive bar with live music – are popular on weekends. For a quiet evening at a historic locale, the rustic Iowa Taproom is housed inside a 142-year-old building. East Village, a 2.5-mile drive on Interstate 235, is a vibrant and diverse district offering a variety of options for nightlife, dining and shopping.
Thai Flavors' original location is proud to call Capitol Park home.
The Fremont is Capitol Park's favorite local watering hole.
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High school offers AP classes
Capitol Park is served by three school districts — Des Moines Independent Community, Cedar Rapids Community and Dubuque Community — depending on a given address, and all offer open enrollment. Students can walk to and start their education at Carver Elementary School, which has an overall B-plus rating from Niche. Hiatt Middle School has a C-minus score. East High School, with a C grade, offers specialized programs such as Advanced Placement and SUCCESS.
The George Washington Carver Community School serves Capitol Park and surrounding communities with an excellent 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio
Hiatt Middle School serves students in grades 6-8 in Martin Luther King Jr Park.
The newer entrance of East High School emulates the columns of Capitol Park, IA.
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Major destinations just a short drive
Living in Capitol Park comes with the added benefit of easy commuting. The neighborhood is on a Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DARTA) bus route, making public transportation simple for residents. The neighborhood is also conveniently close to I-235 for those who prefer to drive. Des Moines International Airport is just a short 7-mile drive away via back roads.
Easy access to 14th St and I-235 make getting around the Des Moines Metro easy.
Capitol Park features a beautiful bike trail along the Des Moines River.
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Some crime in the area
It's important to note that the CAP Index in Capitol Park is 6/10, indicating moderate crime. The Violence Interruption Project (VIP) is an initiative approved by the Des Moines City Council in 2021 to address gun violence affecting at-risk youth.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Capitol Park neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Capitol Park
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
6
4
Burglary
6
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
6
4
Larceny
6
4
Crime Score
6
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Capitol Park Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Capitol Park, Des Moines sell after 25 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Capitol Park, Des Moines over the last 12 months is $165,000, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Located just north of the Historic East Village, this move-in ready 2-bedroom condo offers exceptional in-town convenience. The interior features a spacious living room, two comfortable bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a functional kitchen with an eat-in dining area. Residents can enjoy a community swimming pool for seasonal relaxation, while on-site laundry provides added everyday convenience.
Located just north of the Historic East Village, this move-in ready 2-bedroom condo offers exceptional in-town convenience. The interior features a spacious living room, two comfortable bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a functional kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, tiled backsplash, and an eat-in dining area. Residents can enjoy a community swimming pool for
Just north of the Historic East Village, this move-in ready 2-bedroom condo delivers prime in-town convenience. Inside features a spacious living room, two bedrooms, a full bath, and a functional kitchen with an eat-in dining area. A community swimming pool offers a seasonal escape, while on-site laundry adds everyday convenience. Forget the mower and snow shovel - HOA dues cover water, gas,
Just north of the Historic East Village, this move-in ready 2-bedroom condo delivers prime in-town convenience. Inside features a spacious living room, two bedrooms, a full bath, and a functional kitchen with an eat-in dining area. A community swimming pool offers a seasonal escape, while on-site laundry adds everyday convenience. Forget the mower and snow shovel - HOA dues cover water, gas,
Welcome to this spacious 5-bedroom, 2-bath home offering over 1,500 square feet of living space and plenty of room for a growing family. Inside, you'll find generous living areas, a large kitchen with breakfast bar, main-floor laundry, and spacious bedrooms throughout. The front porch provides a welcoming place to relax, while the flexible floor plan offers endless possibilities to make the space
Situated just north of the Historic East Village, this move-in ready 2-bedroom condo offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Inside, you'll find a spacious living area, two well-sized bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a functional kitchen with a cozy eat-in dining space. Residents enjoy access to a community swimming pool, ideal for relaxing during the warmer months, along with the
Opportunity awaits at 910 E 11th St! This lot is prepped and ready for your next build with the previous structure already removed and a foundation hole in place. Utilities include existing water and sewer connections, helping streamline the building process and potentially reduce development costs. Whether you're an investor, builder, or future homeowner, this is a great chance to bring your
Check out this well maintained 2 story home in the heart of Des Moines. Home has beautiful original hardwood floors throughout. When you enter the home imagine enjoying your coffee on the front porch. Then proceed inside to a large living space. The dining area is large enough to hold your entire family for meals and entertaining. All the appliances are included. Basement is dry and has a 2nd 3/4
Great opportunity to invest in this Muti-use building 4 large units with three bedrooms each! The two units in the first level are vacant and contain 3 Beds, 2 bathrooms and Central air. The two apartments in the second level are occupied, rent is charged at $1400 type of leasing agreement is month to month. Rental certificate has been approved by the City of Des Moines for the two apartments
This 2 story home showcases the view of the Capitol. Spacious family room and kitchen with original woodwork, 2 bedrooms upstairs with a full bath. Unfinished basement. Conveniently located close to schools, parks, downtown Des Moines and the interstate.
This 1922 Craftsman Four Square offers timeless character with over 2,500 square feet of living space. Beautiful hardwood floors and original oak trim highlight the home's historic charm throughout. The main floor features a welcoming living room with an updated wood-burning fireplace and French doors leading to a bright sunroom. Formal dining room showcases built-in oak cabinetry and a striking
Well-maintained and income-producing duplex offering a fantastic opportunity for both seasoned investors and those looking to get started in real estate. Each unit offers a functional layout with comfortable living spaces, making it appealing for long-term tenants.This property has been consistently cared for, giving buyers confidence in a low-maintenance investment from day one. Whether
Ashlee & Kyle KnickerbockerKeller Williams Realty GDM
Welcome to Riverview Oaks, a community that is proud of its close relationship to nature! Bordered by nearby parks and bike trials, residents have so much to take advantage of right outside their front door!Call us today at or email us at to make Riverview Oaks your new home!
Presenting a fully renovated home with 2 comfortable bedrooms and 1 well appointed bathroom. This home features luxury vinyl floors throughout. New light fixtures for the whole house as well as new paint and more! Kitchen has all new high end stainless steel appliances. Ceiling gives it an additional touch of lux yet modern . This move-in ready home is waiting for you to call it yours and at an
Comfortable and fully furnished 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment in Des Moines, conveniently located near major hospitals, downtown, restaurants, shopping, and local attractions. This move-in-ready apartment includes all utilities, fast internet, and electricity, making it ideal for traveling medical professionals, corporate stays, students, or anyone needing a clean and convenient place to
FOR RENT: Available May 1st. 1 bedroom - 1 bathroom unit in a 4plex building. Everything new. Rent is $1,085/month which includes: internet, trash, water, lawn care, snow removal, assigned parking space, security services, and basement storage (outdoor grilling station, dog run, picnic table under the covered picnic area, and 2 sets of washers and dryers in basement are all not shown in photos.)
Anthony LyneRE/MAX Concepts
$1,900 per month
Charming 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in the heart of Des Moines, IA
House was entirely renovated in 2021 - new kitchen, new bathrooms, new flooring, new drywall - a new house all while maintaining it's original charm!!Great location with quick access to I-235 and East Village. You'll love the stainless steel appliances and GRANITE Countertops in the kitchen against white subway tile backsplash. Lush green lawn and washer/dryer hookups. Large dining room
Welcome home to this bright, generously sized 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment offering 995 square feet of comfortable living space. Blending convenience with a fantastic layout, this unit feels less like an apartment and more like a home.Apartment Highlights:Your Own Front Door: Enjoy the privacy and convenience of a dedicated primary entrance—no shared hallways or busy lobbies to
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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