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.
2025 Gift Guide
Looking for a memorable way to celebrate or connect? Whether you’re planning a date night, group outing, or solo adventure, this guide features fun, hands-on experiences that bring people together; from candle-making and gallery nights to creative classes and circus camps. Give the gift of time, connection, and something they’ll never forget, right here in Valley Junction.
Mothers Day Gift Guide
Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate Mom this year? Whether it’s a unique gift, a creative outing, or time spent together, Valley Junction has you covered. This guide features local favorites from vintage-inspired art and contemporary fine art to cooking classes she’ll love. Shop small, give thoughtfully, and make this Mother’s Day one to remember right here in Valley Junction.
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.
Don’t miss the Farmers Market
The Valley Junction Farmers Market hosts over 80 unique vendors, rotating entertainment, live music in a beverage garden, and many shops are open late. See what’s to find at the market!
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 guides the evolution of the original Valley Junction district in West Des Moines, Iowa 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
2025 Founder Financial Sponsors
