Whether you’re a fan of theater and art or sporting events and rock concerts, there are so many exciting and best 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 it’s 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 the best 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 looking for the best things to do 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.
Brenton Skating Plaza
Are you planning to visit Des Moines in the winter? Then be sure to schedule a trip to Brenton Skating Plaza. This open-air ice skating facility is open between November and March. The park can fit up to 175 people at a time, and you get almost 2 hours of skating time per session. Though walk-up admission is allowed, this park fills up fast, so it’s better to book online to avoid disappointment. It’s right on the picturesque Principal Riverwalk, which has bike trails, pedestrian bridges, and gardens, so plan for a whole day of wholesome outdoor family fun.
State Historical Museum of Iowa
Are you a history buff? Then you’ll love whiling away the hours at the State Historical Museum of Iowa. You’ll learn all about what life was like for the original inhabitants of Iowa before settlers arrived from Europe, discover what natural resources lie below Iowa’s fertile land, explore Iowans’ part in the Civil War, and even learn about the surprising history of bicycling in Iowa. The museum has over 80,000 objects in its collection, with around 1,500 on display at any one time, so you’re guaranteed never to get bored!
Outlets of Des Moines
Admit it. You love a good shop. We all do! And there’s no better place to get your spend on than at Outlets of Des Moines. This brand new shopping destination is the only outlet mall in the city center, so not only are you guaranteed to snap up some bargains, you won’t have to travel far to get them! And there’s not just stuff to buy to wear or use here; there’s also an array of excellent casual eateries—choose from Auntie Anne’s, Charleys Philly Steaks, and Teriyaki Boys.
Do you think this is a comprehensive list of things to do in Des Moines, Iowa? Or would you add some places, events, or sites we’ve missed? Debate the not-to-be-missed areas and share your secret spots in the comment section below. If you want to watch more videos like this one, head over to the ViewCation channel and subscribe. Hit that notification bell while you’re there. Oh, and don’t forget to give this video a thumbs up and share it with your friends and family.