John Deere Des Moines Works Tour — Ankeny, Iowa

Discover the John Deere Des Moines Works Tour in Iowa

Located in Ankeny, Iowa, the John Deere Des Moines Works Tour offers visitors an inside look at one of John Deere’s most advanced manufacturing facilities. This guided Factory Tour takes guests through designated production areas where cutting-edge lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, and turf equipment are assembled. The tour highlights automation, precision engineering, and quality-control systems that support John Deere’s global residential and commercial turf operations.
Why it’s special: Des Moines Works showcases modern, high-volume manufacturing in action, giving visitors a rare view of how John Deere blends robotics, skilled labor, and lean production to build equipment used worldwide.

History & Story of John Deere Des Moines Works

John Deere Des Moines Works was established in 1974 to support the company’s growing lawn and turf equipment business. Strategically located in Ankeny, the facility has expanded over the decades into a major manufacturing and engineering hub. Today, Des Moines Works plays a key role in John Deere’s global supply chain, producing advanced equipment while continuously investing in automation, sustainability, and workforce development.

What You’ll See & Do on the John Deere Des Moines Works Tour

• Observe lawn and turf equipment assembly lines in operation

• Learn how automation and robotics support high-volume production

• See quality testing and inspection processes up close

• Understand how engineering and manufacturing teams collaborate

• Learn how John Deere equipment is designed for durability and performance

Hands-On Elements: Interactive displays and visual demonstrations; factory floor access is observational only.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography and video recording are not permitted inside manufacturing areas.
Souvenirs & Extras: Limited on-site merchandise; visitors are encouraged to visit nearby John Deere retail locations or museums.

Pricing of the John Deere Des Moines Works Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)
Factory tours are free of charge but require advance reservation.

Visiting information

Duration: 90–120 minutes
Age limits: Minimum age 12 years; valid photo ID required
Accessibility: Limited accessibility due to stairs and industrial walkways
Working hours: Tours offered Monday–Friday at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM only; no weekend tours.

Nearby

• Des Moines Botanical Garden

• Iowa State Capitol

• John Deere Des Moines Works Greenway (surrounding area)

FAQs About Visiting the John Deere Des Moines Works Tour

Is advance booking required for the factory tour?
Yes. All tours must be booked in advance due to security requirements and limited group sizes.

What types of equipment are built at this facility?
Des Moines Works primarily produces lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, and turf equipment for residential and commercial use.

Can visitors take photos during the tour?
No. Photography and video recording are restricted inside the factory for safety and intellectual property protection.

Is this tour suitable for children or students?
The minimum age is 12, and the tour is best suited for teens and adults interested in manufacturing or engineering.

Is this tour different from the Waterloo Works factory tour?
Yes. Des Moines Works focuses on turf equipment manufacturing, while Waterloo Works specializes in large agricultural tractors.