If you’re looking for something to do with kids in Des Moines, Iowa, look no further than Raccoon River Park. There are playgrounds and paved trails, a spray pad, and even a beach! The four-mile Skywalk is also located in downtown Des Moines and is heated. It’s a great place to spend a day with your family. Or, for the more adventurous, head to one of the many museums or historical sites.
Living History Farms
If you’re looking for an interesting day out with your kids in Des Moines, you should definitely check out Living History Farms. This 500-acre open-air museum is a ministry that educates visitors about agricultural history. The farm is also a good place to feed your children a hearty breakfast or lunch. While you’re at Living History Farms for kids in Des Moines, make sure to check out the farm animals.
The outdoor day camp program at Living History Farms allows children to experience what it was like to be a farmer. Kids can learn about early American life and how farming changed over the years. The farm is split into three sites – the 1700 Ioway Indian Farm, the 1850 Pioneer Farm, and the 1900 Horse-Powered Farm. The camp is held on a rolling prairie and there are plenty of fun activities that keep the kids occupied and engaged throughout the day.
Raccoon River Park
There are plenty of things to do in Des Moines with toddlers and young children, but if you want to keep the kids busy for a longer amount of time, you can visit Raccoon River Park. This park is a great place to swim or play on the playground. You can also hike the trails and go fishing. Several things to do with kids in Des Moines include taking them to the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
If you’re traveling with kids, a visit to the Iowa Science Center may be on your itinerary. Founded in 1970, the Science Center features a wide range of exhibits and a planetarium that shows programs on the universe. You can also check out the What On Earth? exhibit and see leaf rubbings of various Iowa trees. You’ll also be able to view live demonstrations of science and technology at the John Deere Adventure Theater.
Altoona Aquatics Park
For families with children who love to swim, the Altoona Aquatics Park is a great option. The water park features a zero-depth entry pool, a speed slide, a loop-de-loop slide, and more. There are also two water slides, a diving board, and a sand play area. A splash pad and a picnic area are also available at Ashby Park. If you want to go without the crowds, this is the perfect place to visit.
Another great place to visit is the State Capitol Building, which features a collection of dolls based on Iowa governor’s wives. This attraction is free and open to the public. Raccoon River Park, located in Des Moines, is another fun place to take kids. This park offers water activities and is a great destination for a day out with the family.
Rotary Riverwalk Park
If you’re looking for something new to do with your kids, the Rotary Riverwalk Park is a perfect place to explore. It features a 65-foot fishing pole and a rubberized play surface with LED lighting. It’s also connected to the Lauridsen Skatepark. Kids will love climbing and swinging on the giant bobber, and you can enjoy the view from several vantage points.
There’s a zoo in town, and there’s a great park with a petting zoo! The city also has an excellent zoo, including the world’s largest free zoo. The Iowa State Fair is also held here every year, so families can visit a fair while they’re in town. For dining in Des Moines, 801 Chophouse, Centro, Waveland Cafe, Americana, and more are great choices. For a fun dining experience, try Zombie Burger + Drink Lab.
Snookies Malt Shop
If you’re looking for a fun thing to do with kids in Des Moines, Iowa, Snookies Malt Shop may be your ticket. This family-run business in central Iowa lets customers customize their ice cream by topping it with animal crackers. The fun is sure to please kids of all ages, as they can get a treat for every member of the family. They serve soft serve and hard pack ice cream.
Another place to go with your children is Bauder’s. This old pharmacy has been serving Des Moines residents with ice cream since 1916. It is famous for its peppermint bar, which is available only during the State Fair, but the other ice cream is delicious year-round. This popular spot is also home to a variety of playscapes, including a natural playscape.
Science Center of Iowa
If you’re looking for something fun to do with your kids in Des Moines, consider the Science Center of Iowa. This museum focuses on science, space exploration, and more. There’s something for everyone at the Science Center of Iowa. Your children will love the interactive displays, and you can see for yourself how your children’s minds can develop. Kids can also explore their own sense of discovery at a hands-on lab, and parents can help them figure out what they’re learning.
Families with curious children will enjoy a trip to the Science Center of Iowa. Located in downtown Des Moines, this science center features hands-on exhibits and dynamic live programs. It’s the perfect place to inspire young minds and foster their love of learning. You can rent the museum for your group, order catering and hold your event in the space. There’s something for everyone, from toddlers to grandparents.
Pappjohn Sculpture Park
If you’re looking for a family-friendly day trip in Des Moines, Iowa, look no further than Pappjohn Sculpture Park. This outdoor art exhibit was created by John and Mary Poppajohn, two millionaires who donated 31 works of sculpture to the Des Moines Art Center. The Pappjohn Sculpture Park is open daily, from sunrise to sunset. You can even take an audio tour of the sculptures online!
There are plenty of things to do in the park with children, from strollers and picnic baskets to arts and crafts. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic to enjoy while exploring the park’s sculptures. But keep in mind that city park rules do not allow glass bottles or pets. While alcohol is permitted, it must be consumed with a permit. In addition, smoking is prohibited inside the park, but permitted outside on the public right-of-way sidewalks.
Zoo
If you are looking for something to do with your kids while in the area, then you may want to consider visiting the Blank Park Zoo. The zoo is located on 49 acres, close to historic Fort Des Moines. This zoo is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and it is the only accredited zoo in Iowa. With over 100 species of animals and 200 species of birds, you are sure to find a new favorite.
There are many places to bring your children in Des Moines, IA, but visiting a zoo is the perfect way to introduce them to all types of animals. Visiting a zoo allows children to form emotional connections with animals that they wouldn’t otherwise be able to experience. Zoos are also a great place to educate children, since they offer both educational experiences and hands-on experiences with animals.
Public garden
A public garden for kids in Des Moines is not just for the little ones. This 12-acre garden also includes a water garden, conifer garden, rose garden, and an iconic geodesic dome conservatory. The garden is open to the public on Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is also home to a coffee shop called the Trellis Café. There are educational programs for kids, too.
Visitors can spend the day enjoying the gardens by taking guided tours of the area. The tours last about 30 minutes and are first-come, first-served. For larger groups, special group tours can be arranged for a fee. Visitors can also purchase daily admission tickets or pay for family memberships. The Des Moines Botanical Garden is located at 909 Robert D. Ray Dr. Admission is free for children three years old and under.
Splash pad
Whether you’re looking for a fun, free family activity or are just passing through Des Moines, splash pads for kids in Des Moines are a great way to cool down. With many splash pads scattered throughout the city, there is sure to be one near you. Whether you’re bringing the kids to the splash pad next door or exploring the many options in West Des Moines, there’s something for everyone.
For a more traditional water park experience, you can visit the Altoona Aquatics Park, located at 3200 38th St. There’s also a splash pad at Ashby Park, which has picnic tables and charcoal grills for families to use while out in the sun. If you’re looking for a less-crowded water park, you can visit the Adventure Bay Water Park in nearby Des Moines.
