Are you looking to buy a home in the Des Moines area? When deciding to purchase a house, choosing your new neighborhood is just as important as choosing your new property – perhaps even more important, as you can change a blueprint much easier than changing a location. The neighborhood of Waterbury is in our spotlight this week, and here are a few reasons why.

The neighborhood of Waterbury is a relatively small community in a suburban setting of tree lined streets and family homes, but within its locale are trails and parks, museums, nightlife, shopping, restaurants, and coffee houses, essentially giving you the best of both worlds. 

Museums

Salisbury House Foundation

Salisbury House and Gardens is a beautiful home that has been turned into a museum for the public to enjoy. This 42 room estate was built between the years of 1923 and 1928 and features astounding collections of art, antiques, and literature, as well as nine acres of lush gardens and forests.

Des Moines Children's Museum

Set in a small location in the Valley West Mall is the Des Moines Children’s Museum.  Established in 2017 by two moms, this non-profit believes in the power of play and social interaction. Exhibits and play areas are perfect for children from infant age to age eight. 

Des Moines Art Center

The Des Moines Art Center is a museum, sculpture garden, and art school all rolled into one.  The collections are primarily centered on modern and contemporary art all on display in the architectural delight created by three renowned architects. Take a tour and discover works by renowned artists such as Georgia O'Keeffe, Edward Hopper, Francis Bacon, and many more.  Admission is free so you can’t beat the price.

Culture

Des Moines Playhouse

Established in 1919, the Des Moines Playhouse is one of the oldest and largest community theatres in the United States. Aside from the phenomenal plays and musicals they produce each year, the Playhouse also offers theatre classes, workshops, and theatre camps for kids.  Some of their most recent productions include A Christmas Story and Singin’ in the Rain.  Volunteers are always welcome as well.

Drake Municipal Observatory

Spend an evening looking at the stars at the Drake Municipal Observatory. Located on the grounds of the Waveland Golf Course, the observatory is open to the public in the seasons of spring, summer, and fall for their Public Night Series. For the year of 2020, their lecture series will focus on presenting a clear vision of our Solar System to include each of the planets, dwarf planets, and comets.

Restaurants and Nightlife

If you are a foodie or are looking for a night out to relax, you will certainly not be disappointed in the options of the neighborhood. Wine lovers can explore the grounds at the Jasper Winery and then make a stop at Cheese Bar which is known for its mac-n-cheese, charcuterie, and wine selection. In the mood for Mexican food? Enjoy a night out and a margarita at the Old West Mexican Restaurant. Do you have a craving for some good BBQ? Head on over to Smoky D’s and get some pulled pork or ribs. Whether you’re craving Asian food, BBQ, light fare, or simply a cup of coffee, Waterbury has you covered.

Choosing your new home is an exciting milestone and one that should be well thought out.  When choosing your home sweet home, it’s important to make sure the neighborhood suits your lifestyle as well. What do you look for in a neighborhood?