Generated with sparks and insights from 11 sources

Summary

Greater Des Moines offers an abundance of family fun activities ranging from amusement parks, zoos, and science centers to unique dining experiences and outdoor adventures. Whether it's exploring the largest skatepark in the country, indulging in creative culinary delights, or learning through interactive historical farms, there's something to keep every member of the family entertained. Seasonal attractions like the Iowa State Fair and the vibrant Downtown Farmers' Market add to the appeal, making Des Moines a must-visit for families seeking a mix of education, excitement, and gastronomy.

Adventureland Park

Iowa's largest amusement park featuring over 100 rides, shows, and attractions including a water park.

Tips

Reserve a whole day or two for the park. Water park admission is included. Consider renting a cabana for convenience.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Adventureland Resort Full Tour - Des Moines, Iowa", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUr1_SaQw7E", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Oct 12, 2023", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Adventureland - 4K | Walkthrough & Tour | Altoona, Iowa (No ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjPGrkJntHQ", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jan 25, 2023", "length": "" }</div>

Blank Park Zoo

A 49-acre zoo with a variety of animals and attractions including tigers, seals, and a baby rhino.

Tips

Don't miss the opportunity to feed the giraffes and enjoy the add-on experiences like train rides and face painting.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Blank Park Zoo Full Tour - Des Moines, Iowa", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KvKtyRYfS-o", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Oct 5, 2023", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Blank Park Zoo, Des Moines, IA", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0CuEzATr1o", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Apr 11, 2022", "length": "" }</div>

Science Center of Iowa

A center that makes learning fun with permanent and traveling exhibits on space, LEGO, and zoology/geology.

Tips

Great for a break from virtual learning, offering hands-on experiences.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Science Center of Iowa", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkultx9MHQQ", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Sep 9, 2021", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Science Center of Iowa - Fun with Friends in Des Moines, Iowa", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eos0S6xHYfI", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "May 25, 2018", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Des Moines Science Museum Review", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Of5xrsdkKY", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Nov 6, 2020", "length": "" }</div>

Living History Farms

A 500-acre outdoor museum telling the story of Iowa's 300-year-old history through interactive farms and a town.

Tips

Explore different farms and the 1876 Town of Walnut Hill for a full day of educational fun.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Living History Farms (Des Moines, Iowa)", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKOwExemsVc", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Mar 28, 2012", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Living History Farms Tour | Iowa", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTs3IfOUG0w", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jun 18, 2023", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "1900 Farm at Living History Farms", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4g12ceCizc", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Aug 13, 2021", "length": "" }</div>

Lauridsen Skatepark

The largest skatepark in the country with 88,000 square feet of skateable surface and various courses.

Tips

Free to visit. Enjoy watching or participating in skateboarding across various skill courses.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "The Story Behind America's Largest Skatepark", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNtWf0HbenU", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Apr 19, 2022", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "There From the Beginning: Lauridsen Skatepark", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DyqkAFPe5_w", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jun 3, 2021", "length": "" }</div>

Zombie Burger

A unique burger place known for its creative and indulgent burger combinations and shakes.

Tips

Try the bacon cheeseburger with deep-fried macaroni buns and a Cinnamon Toast Crunch milkshake.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Discovering Zombie Burger in Downtown Des Moines, IA ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKP05aESZ9E", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Feb 20, 2021", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Zombie Burger + Drink Bar - Des Moines, Iowa", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wi8BNZ0iVLg", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Oct 21, 2012", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "ZOMBIE BURGER AND DRINK LAB! A Burger Joint for the ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etVJGa_oaBU", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Aug 5, 2020", "length": "" }</div>

Fong's Pizza

A pizzeria that combines pizza with Crab Rangoon, offering a unique dining experience.

Tips

Don't miss the Crab Rangoon pizza paired with a tiki drink.

Downtown Farmers' Market

A vibrant farmers' market with over 300 vendors, live music, and a wide variety of goods.

Tips

Visit from May to October on Saturday mornings for a taste of local culture and produce.