Local Charm
The people of Des Moines, Iowa have a lot of pride in where they live. Pride that we know much of the nation does not understand.
One local store, Raygun, has capitalized on this pride, as well as the fact that the Midwest doesn't take itself too seriously. This store has cultivated a witty identity for our small city, one that accurately represents the people that live there and their perspective of the world.
Raygun takes the things that we love about Des Moines, Iowa, along with the stereotypes that we know and hate, and perfectly puts them into words and images. And then puts those words and images on t-shirts, mugs, magnets, and more so that we can attempt to explain our humble pride to others.
One local store, Raygun, has capitalized on this pride, as well as the fact that the Midwest doesn't take itself too seriously. This store has cultivated a witty identity for our small city, one that accurately represents the people that live there and their perspective of the world.
Raygun takes the things that we love about Des Moines, Iowa, along with the stereotypes that we know and hate, and perfectly puts them into words and images. And then puts those words and images on t-shirts, mugs, magnets, and more so that we can attempt to explain our humble pride to others.
More than just corn!
Yes, Iowa produces lots of corn.
But the city of Des Moines has more than farmland. Actually, it has almost no farmland, I swear it really is a city. Des Moines is full of arts, culture, and tradition that make it a great place to live, and somehow make Des Moines feel like a large city and a small town all at once. There are a number of festivals and events throughout the year that offer exciting things to do for residents and visitors, such as 80/35 music festival, the Iowa State Fair, and the Des Moines Arts Festival. These, along with the daily attractions of the city, offer lots of options and makes Des Moines feel big. But the sense of community at these events makes it feel small. These are the traditions that we all participate in; the ones that give us a sense of belonging to the place.
In the past decade especially, the city of Des Moines has been revitalizing itself. Based on recent projects like the downtown sculpture garden, burgeoning bike trails, and the Des Moines Social Club, I'd say the city is focusing on the right things. It aims to grow the presence of arts, opportunities for young professionals, and social and outdoor activities.
As the city grows, it maintains the charm that comes with a place that understands itself and its people.
But the city of Des Moines has more than farmland. Actually, it has almost no farmland, I swear it really is a city. Des Moines is full of arts, culture, and tradition that make it a great place to live, and somehow make Des Moines feel like a large city and a small town all at once. There are a number of festivals and events throughout the year that offer exciting things to do for residents and visitors, such as 80/35 music festival, the Iowa State Fair, and the Des Moines Arts Festival. These, along with the daily attractions of the city, offer lots of options and makes Des Moines feel big. But the sense of community at these events makes it feel small. These are the traditions that we all participate in; the ones that give us a sense of belonging to the place.
In the past decade especially, the city of Des Moines has been revitalizing itself. Based on recent projects like the downtown sculpture garden, burgeoning bike trails, and the Des Moines Social Club, I'd say the city is focusing on the right things. It aims to grow the presence of arts, opportunities for young professionals, and social and outdoor activities.
As the city grows, it maintains the charm that comes with a place that understands itself and its people.