Whether you’re a fan of theater and art or sporting events and rock concerts, there
are so many exciting things to do in Des Moines, Iowa, that will keep just about anyone happy
and busy. One of the stand-out things that Des Moines is best known for is its gold-topped
Iowa State Capitol building since it's one of the country's best-preserved examples of
late 19th, early 20th-century state architecture. It's a landmark in the city's popular and
vibrant East Village district—where you definitely want to spend some time when you
visit, by the way.
For families, there's ice skating in the winter as well as murder-mystery-themed restaurants,
shopping malls, and sports centers. For those who love the great outdoors, you can spend
hours admiring the colorful blooms at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden or hit
the scenic High Trestle Trail to stretch your legs a bit. Finally, if you're someone who
loves food, be sure to add the Downtown Farmers' Market and World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
to your itinerary.
So if you’re looking for things to do in Des Moines, Iowa, or curious to see if it’s
the spot for your next American vacation, watch on for our top picks in this perfect
all-season destination.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens
If you love all things green and growing, you'll be sure to have a fantastic time at
the Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens. This lush plant park is conveniently located
in downtown Des Moines and offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Plan to spend a day exploring the various gardens and plant collections on offer—we
recommend the Hillside Garden with its cantilevered waterfall and peaceful Ruan Reflection Garden.
Oh, and don't forget to check if the weird and wonderful corpse flower is blooming. It
only happens every three to five years!
Wooly’s
If you’re a fan of live music acts, Wooly’s is the place to head in Des Moines. This intimate
venue lets you get up close and personal with famous, up-and-coming artists from across
America. The simple set-up inside means it’s easy to move from the bar to the stage area,
and the ticket prices and drink prices are some of the cheapest in the area. One big
bonus is that Wooly’s lies in the heart of the East Village (more on this thriving
district later), meaning you can check out the shops and grab a bite to eat before catching
your favorite band.
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High Trestle Trail
If you’re looking to experience the very best of Des Moines’ extensive trail system,
start with the High Trestle Trail. This 25-mile hiking path runs through four counties and
five towns and includes a 13-floor tall bridge crossing the Des Moines River. Here’s a
little-known fact: this bridge is one of the tallest trail bridges on the globe! You can
choose to walk, run, or bike this trail, so it’s an excellent option for a family day
out. Pack a picnic or stop for lunch along the way.
Smash Park
If you're in Des Moines with the boys, be sure to plan a trip to Smash Park. This all-in-one
entertainment locale boasts one of the largest patios in Iowa, hand-crafted cocktails and
craft beer on tap, and street-style eats. Think juicy burgers and sliders, delectable
naanzas - that's a pizza built on naan bread in case you were wondering -, and trays of
nachos. There are over 40 high-definition TVs, so you can catch whatever game you want,
or you kill a few hour hours and show off your skills playing pickleball, bocce ball,
shuffleboard, or table tennis. There are often live performances, so check the website to
see what's on before you arrive.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
While this outdoor art area is known locally as the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, its official
name is the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park. That's because it's named after the
art-loving couple who contributed more than two dozen art pieces for the park. The Pappajohn
Sculpture Park spans over four acres and is easily accessible by car or bike. The featured
artists come from all over the world, so this park will appeal to those keen to expand their
knowledge of global contemporary sculpture art and modern art history.
Great Escape
Whereas Smash Park is a playground for adults, Great Escape is the equivalent for families
looking for a fun night out. It's centrally located just a few minutes from downtown Des
Moines and has everything from cosmic bowling and laser tag to arcade games and VR experiences.
Best of all, there's a full-service restaurant right at the venue, so you don't need to leave
to grab a bite to eat. Kids will love the signature mac and cheese, while parents can
chow down on the fresh salads and shareable appetizers.
Historic East Village
Longing to hang out in Brooklyn but can't get to the Big Apple? Head to Des Moines Historic
East Village instead! This bustling neighborhood is full of quaint historical buildings, top-notch
eateries and bars, and one-of-a-kind shops like the iconic Raygun clothing store. The
East Village starts on the east side of the Des Moines River and continues through to
the Iowa State Capitol building. Choose to start at either end and work your way through
so you don't miss anything! Shop 'til you drop for eclectic knick-knacks, grab a bite
to eat at Franka Pizzeria, then finish the night at the trendy AC Hotel's rooftop bar.
Climb Iowa East Village
While you're in the East Village, why not try your hand at climbing some cliffs. That's
right, this part of town is home to a bouldering center with over 3,000 square feet of walls
and 100 problems to solve with only your hands and feet. There are walls for every skill
level, and professional staff members are on hand to guide you through the moves if
you're a beginner. In fact, an orientation class is mandatory for every newcomer! The
gym is open 7 days a week, so if you're on vacation, go in the middle of a weekday to
avoid the crowds.
Des Moines Downtown Farmers’ Market
If you're in town between May and October, start your Saturday fresh and lively at the
Downtown Farmers' Market. This market first started way back in 1975, and over the decades,
has grown to over 300 stalls. Along with the usual locally grown vegetables and fruit,
you can expect to find handicrafts by local makers and homemade food products like cheese,
preserves, and meats. Go there hungry to eat your breakfast as you browse the stalls. And
if you’re in town around Christmas time, be sure to attend the seasonal Downtown Winter
Farmers' Market on Nov. 20 and Dec. 4.
The Dinner Detective - Des Moines
Do you love those old-timey murder mysteries? If so, then you'll be enamored with The Dinner
Detective. You're not just a spectator in this interactive comedy murder mystery dinner
theatre show; you're the detective tasked with solving puzzles and working out whodunnit!
And what makes it even more fun is the actors look just like regular patrons, hidden in
the audience. With all-inclusive gourmet dinner and show tickets starting at just over $60
per person, this is an affordable, fun night out for all the family. If you're traveling
with a large group, enquire about a private party
for even
better deals.