Valley Junction was the original site of the City of West Des Moines and has a history dating back to 1846, but was incorporated in 1893. It's got a storied history as a railroad town with two rail lines that ran through the area and spurred its success. The city boomed during the 1890's and a downtown district was created by local businessmen. In 1938, local leaders decided to rename the ever-growing Valley Junction area to 'West Des Moines', and the prosperous Des Moines suburb has continued growing ever since. Today, the downtown area of Valley Junction is a collection of restored buildings that house eclectic shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. It's home to a large array of art galleries, one of a kind retail stores, antique collection shops and several pubs and longtime eateries. Valley Junction has aged well and has become one of the most popular and interesting destinations in the Des Moines metro. Concerts, events and farmer's markets keep this district humming with activity.

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