what’s new?
Valley west mall
Valley West opened in 1975 and operated for 50 years before being listed for sale in early 2025 — a strong hook for local readers with nostalgia. By late 2025, only 16% of storefronts remained occupied, with more businesses continuing to announce relocation plans. ATI Group went under contract for the 865,000-square-foot mall in August 2025, hoping to redevelop the site into something the city's mayor said would be unlike anything else in Iowa — but the deal has stalled over JCPenney's lease, which runs through 2032.
after dark
These photos were taken in Des Moines, Iowa after sunset. Neon lights reflect on wet pavement. Snow settles along sidewalks and rooftops. People move through downtown under streetlights and storefront glow.
This series highlights Des Moines street photography with a mix of urban texture, winter scenes, and candid moments. Brick, concrete, shadow, and color all show up here. It’s a straightforward look at downtown Des Moines at night, documented as it is.
