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.

Standing together for valley junction 2025 annual fundraising campaign header blue with 5th street arch
Historic Valley Junction Foundation - Boutiques Selling Apparel

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.

Historic Valley Junction restaurants

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.

Historic Valley Junction Live Show

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.

More about

Historic Valley Junction

The one and only Downtown West Des Moines

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!

Evolution Of The Original Historic Valley Junction

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 ’round Valley Junction

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

2024 Founder Financial Sponsors

spice and tea exchange logo
West Bank logo
West Des Moines
Veridan credit union logo
Coopers logo - comfort food and drink in Historic Valley Junction
Winchester house logo
Blind Pig logo - cocktail bodega
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