Welcome
to Valley Junction.
The heart and soul of West Des Moines.
Historic Valley Junction is the gathering place that is the heart and soul of West Des Moines — a delightful mix of old and new, bridging generations with unique shops, vibrant events, and a walkable hometown feel.
Welcome
to Valley Junction.
The heart and soul of West Des Moines.
Historic Valley Junction is the gathering place that is the heart and soul of West Des Moines — a delightful mix of old and new, bridging generations with unique shops, vibrant events, and a walkable hometown feel.
Some of the best shopping in the Midwest
Within our compact district, you’ll find an amazing variety of locally owned boutiques selling apparel, home decor, vintage and antique items, candy, and specialty gifts.
Oh, my. All this fabulous food!
Where should we eat? Hungry visitors to Valley Junction know their taste buds will be satisfied with any of the fabulous restaurants and eateries in the area. The cuisine is wide ranging from award-winning pizza to pub food, or delicious deli sandwiches. No one will leave hungry or thirsty.
What’s happening?
There’s always something happening in Historic Valley Junction! From farmers markets to car shows to live music, there’s sure to be something fun for everyone.
Get jolly at Jingle In the Junction.
Feel festive in Valley Junction this holiday season during Jingle In the Junction Thursday nights starting November 16th. Extended shopping hours give you the chance to find the perfect holiday gift and enjoy three blocks of free entertainment under the glow of more than 100,000 holiday lights. New this year is a 25 foot lighted tree in the 300 block sponsored by the Historic Valley Junction Foundation.
More about
Historic Valley Junction
The one and only Downtown West Des Moines
In the 1890s, with the news of the railroad’s move into the area, several area businessmen purchased 40 acres of land east of 8th Street and a “downtown” was born. From there, Valley Junction grew and now is West Des Moines’ one and only downtown!
The Historic Valley Junction Foundation
The Historic Valley Junction Foundation’s mission is to guide the evolution of the original Historic Valley Junction district by preserving and honoring our historic character, supporting small businesses, and connecting the community.
Finding your way around Valley Junction
Our neighborhood map shows many amenities to make your visit more pleasant. Weekdays and during special events, staff at the Historic Valley Junction Foundation office, 137 5th Street, are available to assist you.
Community & partner resources.
The Historic Valley Junction Foundation offers many businesses resources to help make our neighborhood one of the best places in Greater Des Moines for small business. And it’s working — we were recently awarded Cityview’s “Best Shopping District” in the metro for the second year in a row.
THANK YOU
2023 Founder Financial Sponsors
