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 September in Salisbury Oaks

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

September 5, 2026

Downtown Farmers’ Market

Historic Court District, Downtown Des Moines • 7:00 AM–12:00 PM

A bustling Saturday morning market offering fresh produce, artisan foods, live entertainment and family-friendly activities—ideal for Salisbury Oaks residents seeking local food and community connection.

September 12, 2026

Downtown Farmers’ Market

Historic Court District, Downtown Des Moines • 7:00 AM–12:00 PM

Weekly opportunity to enjoy local vendors, live music, seasonal treats and wellness programming—great for starting a weekend with fresh ingredients and fun close to home.

September 25–26, 2026

Des Moines Oktoberfest

Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park

A lively fall festival with German food, beer, music and outdoor fun at Water Works Park—perfect for families and neighbors to celebrate the season together.

September 3–5, 2026

Taste of the Junction Multicultural Festival

Railroad Park Music Pavilion, Valley Junction, West Des Moines

A vibrant, family-friendly festival featuring food, face painting, crafts and live performances—just a short drive from Salisbury Oaks, great for cultural experiences and community fun.

September 20, 2026

DSM Open Street SW 9th

SW 9th Street Corridor, Des Moines • Noon–4:00 PM

A community street event closing SW 9th to traffic for games, walking and corridor improvements—a fun, neighborhood-focused way for locals to engage and enjoy public space.

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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