Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
A vibrant pedestrian bridge in Des Moines, honoring Iowa's women with stunning city views and a magical night-time light display.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful stroll
Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful stroll
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant pedestrian bridge in Des Moines, honoring Iowa's women with stunning city views and a magical night-time light display.
"This is such an iconic location in downtown Des Moines. It is beautiful and monumental."
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Walk across the bridge to connect with the Riverwalk and nearby attractions like the skate park. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning cityscapes, especially during sunset or at night when the bridge is lit. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Center of the bridge
Spectacular vistas of the Des Moines skyline, including the Capitol building and Wells Fargo Arena.
Illuminated Night Walk
Entire bridge
Experience the bridge come alive at night with vibrant, colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
Tribute to Iowa Women
Bridge plaques/markers
A meaningful tribute honoring the contributions of historic Iowa women, adding a layer of significance to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Connecting the City
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Walk across the bridge to connect with the Riverwalk and nearby attractions like the skate park. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning cityscapes, especially during sunset or at night when the bridge is lit. :camerawithflash:
🦅 Eagle Spotting
Visit in early mornings during winter for a chance to see bald eagles near the bridge. :bird:
💡 Learn the History
Take a moment to appreciate the women honored on the bridge; it's a significant tribute. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Walk across the bridge to connect with the Riverwalk and nearby attractions like the skate park. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning cityscapes, especially during sunset or at night when the bridge is lit. :camerawithflash:
🦅 Eagle Spotting
Visit in early mornings during winter for a chance to see bald eagles near the bridge. :bird:
💡 Learn the History
Take a moment to appreciate the women honored on the bridge; it's a significant tribute. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge for its spectacular city views and its role as a beautiful, clean pedestrian link across the river. Many highlight the magical experience of walking across it at night when it's illuminated with colorful lights, and appreciate its significance as a tribute to Iowa's women.
"8.18.25 my 1st time in IA and as I was strolling on the Riverwalk I came across this beautiful pedestrian bridge. The area was very clean. Not too many people. The views from the bridge are spectacular. A lovely way to explore the area."
Margaret Honan
"This is such an iconic location in downtown Des Moines. It is beautiful and monumental. It is perfect for all occasions and we always bring guest from out of town here all year round. It’s such a neat setting and the views are spectacular."
Kirk Magill
"Very nice bridge with skate park next to it. Great place to relax and enjoy the day. Great views of the Capital and Wells Fargo Arena. Lived it! Cone enjoy and bring the family"
Sylvia Valdez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The bridge is located in downtown Des Moines and is easily accessible by car, public transport, or on foot if you're exploring the Riverwalk. Parking is available nearby, though it can be busy during events.
Yes, there are several parking options in downtown Des Moines, including garages and street parking. Consider parking garages like the one near Wells Fargo Arena for events.
Absolutely! The bridge is part of the Des Moines Riverwalk, making it a perfect spot for a walk or bike ride. It connects various parts of the downtown area.
The bridge is a pedestrian bridge designed for easy access. It's a flat, paved surface suitable for walking and strollers.
If coming from out of town for an event at Wells Fargo Arena, parking garages near the arena are a good option, followed by a short walk to the bridge.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge is free and open to the public. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.
The bridge is generally accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor public space. However, lighting may be reduced during late-night hours.
There is no admission fee to walk across the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge. It's a free amenity for residents and visitors.
While the bridge itself doesn't host ticketed events, it's a popular spot for gatherings and is near venues like Wells Fargo Arena that host major events.
Nominations for the Women of Achievement Award are typically due by July 31st, with honorees recognized at the Women Lead Change Conference.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers beautiful light for cityscapes. Nighttime is also popular for capturing the bridge's colorful illumination.
You can capture panoramic city views, the bridge's unique architecture, night-time light displays, and even wildlife like bald eagles in winter.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's always best to check with the city of Des Moines for current drone policies before flying.
Yes, you can photograph the plaques honoring the women. It's a great way to learn about their contributions.
Experiment with angles from both sides of the river, and consider including the surrounding cityscape or the nearby skate park for context.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Adjacent to the bridge are the Robert D Ray Asian Garden and the Lauridsen Skate Park. The Riverwalk also offers opportunities for leisurely strolls. 
Yes, it's a popular spot for walking, jogging, and cycling as part of the Riverwalk, offering a scenic route for your workout.
The bridge is named to honor the significant contributions of women in Iowa's history and development, serving as a constant reminder of their achievements.
During winter months, bald eagles often frequent the downtown Des Moines area, especially near the river and bridges like this one, particularly in the early mornings.
Visitors generally find the area around the bridge and the Riverwalk to be very clean and well-maintained.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. The bridge's connection to the Riverwalk also means you can extend your outing with a longer walk or a picnic. It's a free and accessible activity that offers both fun and a touch of local history.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
As part of the Riverwalk, it's ideal for getting your steps in while experiencing the heart of Des Moines. You can easily spend an hour or more strolling, taking photos, and appreciating the tribute to Iowa's women. It's a great way to orient yourself with the downtown area.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the chance to capture the city skyline, especially during sunrise or sunset. The nearby Asian Garden and the skate park also offer interesting visual elements to incorporate into your shots. Keep an eye out for bald eagles in winter for a chance at some wildlife photography.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
Each step taken across its span can be seen as a connection to the past and a nod to the future, celebrating the progress made and the work yet to be done in achieving full equality.This landmark connects the east and west sides of Des Moines, symbolizing unity and progress. It's a place where visitors can reflect on the diverse roles women have played and continue to play in shaping the state. The bridge's design itself is often praised for its modern aesthetic, making it a visually appealing addition to the Des Moines skyline.
Beyond its symbolic meaning, the bridge is a vital part of the city's recreational infrastructure. It enhances the Des Moines Riverwalk, providing a safe and scenic route for pedestrians and cyclists. Its presence encourages outdoor activity and offers stunning views, making it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists.
Experiencing the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge at Night
Walking across the bridge after dark offers a unique perspective of the city. The illuminated structure provides a beautiful backdrop for the urban landscape, with the lights reflecting on the river below. It's a romantic and serene experience, perfect for couples or anyone looking for a peaceful evening outing.
While the lights are a major draw, the nighttime experience also offers a chance to see the city from a different vantage point. The surrounding downtown area is often lit up, creating a dynamic urban panorama. Visitors often describe the night walk as a highlight of their Des Moines visit, appreciating the blend of art, engineering, and natural beauty.
Connecting with Nature and Recreation
Furthermore, the bridge is an integral part of the Des Moines Riverwalk, a network of paths that allows for extensive exploration along the riverbanks. This offers opportunities for leisurely walks, jogging, or cycling amidst urban scenery. The Riverwalk is generally well-maintained and provides a pleasant environment for outdoor activities.
During the winter months, the area around the bridge becomes a potential spot for wildlife observation. Bald eagles are known to frequent the downtown Des Moines area, especially when the rivers begin to freeze over. Early morning visits during this season might offer a chance to witness these majestic birds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit