Westwood offers a variety of single detached homes alongside apartment options with diverse unit sizes including lofts and larger layouts. The neighborhood features extensive green spaces and several well-distributed parks that provide relaxing outdoor environments. Its extensive parking availability and proximity to highways make car travel convenient for residents. Although public transit options exist, biking also serves as a viable alternative for many destinations within the area. Local dining options and supermarkets support daily needs, while primary and high schools are located conveniently nearby. Overall, Westwood balances peaceful surroundings with access to essential services and versatile housing choices.
Westwood offers a broad selection of green spaces to enjoy. Parks are easy to reach since there are a few of them nearby for residents to relax in. Finally, this area is relatively quiet, due to the presence of few pedestrians, although those who are closer to the railway line may experience more noise.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
Spanning over 80 acres at the heart of Westwood, Greenwood–Ashworth Park offers a scenic blend of wooded trails, a spray park, rose gardens, sledding hills and the popular Ashworth swimming pool, making it a year‑round recreational anchor for residents.
Just east of Westwood along Grand Avenue, the Des Moines Art Center is a striking modern and contemporary museum offering rotating exhibitions, fine‑art classes for all ages and architectural appeal that enriches Westwood’s cultural landscape.
Located near Greenwood Park on Westwood’s edge, Either/Or is an upscale, locally beloved restaurant known for creative dishes like Korean Philly cheesesteak, Parisian gnocchi and Mexican cheese curds, with a covered patio and fire‑pit seating that draws neighbors year‑round.
Westwood families benefit from generations‑deep ties to Hanawalt Elementary and Merrill Middle School, feeding into Roosevelt High, known for its fine arts focus—creating a cohesive, community‑anchored school corridor within the neighborhood.
Thanks to well‑connected bike trails and Westwood’s proximity to the Val‑Gate District just a mile west along Grand Avenue, residents enjoy easy, safe cycling access to a vibrant shopping and dining hub while keeping the neighborhood peaceful and green.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
This downtown event gives Westwood-area residents an opportunity to hear regional leaders discuss Greater Des Moines priorities, economic opportunity, and community development. It is especially relevant for people interested in how metro-wide decisions and investments may shape neighborhoods, businesses, and quality of life.
View event details →Families near Westwood can enjoy a convenient west-side Halloween outing with art activities, a scavenger hunt, spooky story time, a guided tour, and seasonal performances. Costumes are encouraged, making this a creative and low-pressure alternative to larger Halloween attractions.
View event details →This casual pumpkin-painting activity offers Westwood families a nearby seasonal stop with food, drinks, and Halloween decorations. Kids and adults can decorate a small pumpkin together, making it easy to combine a creative fall activity with lunch or an early dinner.
View event details →Westwood families can start the day with a free, drop-in Halloween program featuring a museum scavenger hunt, games, crafts, and a joke station. The event is geared toward younger children and pairs well with the nearby America's Harvest Festival later that afternoon.
View event details →This free family festival gives Des Moines residents a chance to enjoy interactive exhibits, local vendors, live entertainment, and hands-on harvest-themed activities in a prominent downtown setting. It is a practical regional outing for Westwood households looking for an all-ages fall event without a long drive.
View event details →This free, family-friendly neighborhood tradition brings elaborate decorations, costumes, and Halloween atmosphere to one of Des Moines' historic districts. It is a strong choice for Westwood residents who want a festive community experience close to downtown rather than a ticketed haunted attraction.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Westwood
Local characteristics and demographics for Westwood
