Des Moines

Salisbury Oaks, Des Moines Neighborhood

Salisbury Oaks offers a tranquil neighborhood setting with easy access to several nearby parks and green spaces, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. This area is known for its bicycling-friendly infrastructure, making it convenient to navigate on two wheels. The community benefits from a diverse housing mix, including spacious lofts, single detached homes, and apartment buildings with a variety of sizes. Parking is readily available, and highway access is just a short drive away, simplifying travel. Convenient proximity to primary schools and neighborhood businesses adds to the overall ease of daily living in this welcoming area.

The character of Salisbury Oaks is exemplified by its relaxed atmosphere. Parks are very well-spread out and there are a few of them close by for residents to explore, resulting in them being easy to get to from the majority of locations within the neighborhood. Most areas in this part of the city are very quiet, as the streets tend to be very peaceful.

Highlights of Salisbury Oaks

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Greenwood-Ashworth Park

A cherished green oasis in Salisbury Oaks, Greenwood-Ashworth Park offers scenic walking trails, picnic areas, a creek, and beautiful wooded spaces, providing residents with both recreational activities and a peaceful escape in the heart of the neighborhood.

🏫 Callanan Middle School

Located within Salisbury Oaks, Callanan Middle School serves as an important educational hub, known for its diverse student body, active community involvement, and convenient access for neighborhood families.

🍽️ Des Moines Art Center Café

Situated adjacent to Salisbury Oaks, the café at the Des Moines Art Center offers residents a unique blend of art and cuisine, making it a favorite neighborhood spot for casual lunches, coffee meetups, and weekend brunches with scenic park views.

🛒 Roosevelt Shopping District

Just a short drive north on 42nd Street, the Roosevelt Shopping District features locally owned boutiques, specialty shops, and popular restaurants, serving as a retail and dining gateway for Salisbury Oaks residents.

🚴 Bill Riley Trail

The Bill Riley Trail weaves through Salisbury Oaks, offering cyclists, joggers, and walkers safe access to miles of scenic pathways, connecting the neighborhood to Gray’s Lake Park and beyond for outdoor activities all year round.

Salisbury Oaks

This August in Salisbury Oaks

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

August 8, 2026

Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market

Downtown Des Moines (streets closed between 5th and 6th Sts) • 7:00 AM–12:00 PM

A vibrant, family- and pet‑friendly Saturday morning market just a short drive from Salisbury Oaks, offering fresh produce, flowers, handmade goods, local food, and live music—great for supporting local vendors and spending quality weekend time.

August 13–23, 2026

Iowa State Fair

Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines

The largest event in Iowa, offering agricultural exhibits, concerts, food, rides, and family-friendly activities right in Des Moines—an unmatched summer outing for Salisbury Oaks residents.

August 31, 2026

Declarations | Greater Des Moines Community Band Summer Concert

Downtown Des Moines (public concert location) • 6:30 PM–8:00 PM

An evening community band concert near downtown, ideal for a relaxing end‑of‑summer night where locals can enjoy live music under the sky within easy reach of Salisbury Oaks.

August 3–16, 2026

I Spy: Encanto at Central Library

Des Moines Public Library – Central Library • All Day

A fun, seasonal, drop‑in scavenger hunt for kids inspired by Disney’s Encanto—perfect for families in Salisbury Oaks looking for engaging indoor activities during August.

August 4–27, 2026 (Wednesdays weekly)

ASAP Wednesdays: Abstract Painting

Des Moines Public Library – North Side Library • 3:30 PM–4:30 PM

Creative weekly art program for children and teens featuring abstract painting techniques—great for Salisbury Oaks families wanting structured, hands‑on arts experiences at a convenient neighborhood location.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Salisbury Oaks

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Salisbury Oaks

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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