Improving the Economic Vitality of Our Downtowns

This project is not just about a single city—it is part of a larger national and global ecosystem, creating new economic opportunities and redefining how businesses engage with their communities in the virtual space.







We are seeking partnerships with forward-thinking city officials and business leaders to replicate
their downtowns and launch immersive virtual cities together.





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Hotels


AMERICINN JOHNSTON
5050 Merle Hay Road
Johnston, Iowa

Stoney Creek Des Moines
5291 Stoney Creek Pt
Johnston, Iowa

Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines/Urbandale
8600 Northpark Dr
Johnston, Iowa

TownePlace Suites by Marriott - Des Moines Urbanda
8800 Northpark Dr
Johnston, Iowa


Hotel Tips

Avoid booking poolside for kids playing during the day and gatherings at night. Sound bounces off of the water and voices carry so ask for a room away from the pool either on the opposite side of the hotel or in higher floors.

Policies vary on the availability of pet friendly rooms to it is wise to be open, honest and upfront during the booking process. You may find yourself kicked out or even paying a large deposit if you are not in a pet-friendly hotel and bring one anyway. New ADA laws are fuzzy though as service animals are not required to be documented and proprietors are legally not allowed to ask if the animal is a pet vs. a service animal.

Ask to be shown a room before you check-in which signals the front desk agent to show the best room available to sell it right away. This can put you in the best room available at that time and gives you the ability to check for cleanliness, smells and sounds before transacting with the hotel.



Things To Do

Johnston has a great collection of barber shops to choose from if you want to take a little off the top, get a clean shave or to trim your moustache or beard. Take a moment to consider buying some styling gel, beard oil or wax and always tip well.

Johnston micro breweries have popped up in downtown corridors to quench the thirst of local or traveller whos is looking for a one-of-a-kind experience for suds brewed on site. If you are looking for a light beer or something randy and dark, you are sure to find a wide assortment of options to choose from.

Johnston brings meaning to leisure time while enjoying the local yarn shop and wandering through in amazement with the different fibers and vast array of colors. Signing up for a class is easy and fun and serves as a great getaway for a few hours to enjoy the company of fellow knitters.



Why Do You Love Downtown?

Gina Christ
Old time charm; friendly people

Mike Adamski
Love shopping for unique finds and supporting local shops!

Ashlee
We're visiting from Portland and we love the laid back atmosphere of this town. It is a clean and friendly town!

kristin Cutler
It's so cute and quaint.

Aimee Cavill
Love to wander through this beautiful town and I love the wineries!


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