Featuring Perry and LeAnn Wehrle

Perry and LeAnn are very unique in their experience because downtown Des Moines is their second home.  They weekend in their condo downtown, then head home for the regular work week.

Q: When did you choose downtown for a second home?

We purchased our first condo downtown over 5 years ago.

Q: Why did you decide to have a second home downtown?

We wanted a place that offered a great variety of things to do.  Within a few minutes you can easily reach many recreational areas, movie theaters, shopping malls, museums, historical sights and numerous restaurants that our hometown does not offer.  We wanted to expose our children, teenagers at that time, to other cultural events.  We’ve watched downtown Des Moines change dramatically in the past few years and wanted to take advantage of the city has to offer, and we’re especially excited about the Riverfront development.

Q: What do you do for fun?

We go bike riding on the many trails, especially around Grays Lake and those attached to it.  The Civic Center and Wells Fargo Arena have had a huge selection of shows and events that we’ve attended.  The Arts Festival and Winefest have become events we don’t miss.  Just exploring the city has been an adventure.

Q: What do you love about downtown?

It offers a “big city” feel without being overwhelming.  It has maintained it’s Iowa charm.

Q: Is there anything that downtown needs?

A basic grocery store.  We love the new markets that have opened offering the gourmet foods, but we need someplace to pick up the basic kitchen staples.

Q: Would you recommend downtown living?  Why?

We would recommend living downtown.  Although we’re only here for the weekends, we can see that this neighborhood has the same foundations that every neighborhood has.

 

A big thank you to the Wehrle’s for sharing their downtown experience with us!