Iowa State Capitol West Terrace

The West Capitol Terrace Stage is located on the grounds of the Iowa State Capitol Complex in Des Moines, Iowa. It is part of a larger landscaping project known as the West Capitol Terrace, which transformed former parking lots into a public green space. The terrace serves as a gathering place for community events and offers views of the Iowa State Capitol building.

The West Capitol Terrace project was completed in phases, with the initial work beginning in the mid-2000s. The area includes walkways, ramps, flowers, and native grasses. One notable feature is a series of benches, each dedicated to an Iowa Governor.

The stage itself is used for various public events, including concerts and ceremonies. For example, the Des Moines Symphony holds its annual Yankee Doodle Pops concert at this location. The stage has also been used for commemorative events, such as the 100th anniversary celebration of the Indian Citizenship Act in 2024.

The West Capitol Terrace Stage is part of a broader effort to create more pedestrian-friendly spaces around the Capitol and to strengthen the connection between the State Capitol Complex and downtown Des Moines.