- The list below includes 66 free or cheap things to do in or near Altoona, Iowa, including 51 different types of inexpensive activities like Horse Races, Parks, Race Tracks and Movie Theaters.
- From Thomas Mitchell Park to Prairie Meadows, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Altoona and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Des Moines, West Des Moines, Urbandale and Ankeny.
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Barbecue joint lauded by “Metromix” hand-rubs baby-back ribs and smokes their world-expo-champion pork loin over hickory and oak woods
1.2 Miles
Thomas Mitchell Park is a county park featuring a tall, wooded ridge. The park is named after Thomas Mitchell, one of Polk County's first settlers. Attractions include a playground, camping facilities, fishing, picnic shelters, and hiking trails.
1.1 Miles
Guests at Prairie Meadows in Altoona, Iowa enjoy a host of gaming options. This casino features rows of slot machines, card tables, roulette, craps and other favorites. There is also a bar and a restaurant.
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The Racing Association of Central Iowa hosts live horse racing at Prairie Meadows. The venue offers live racing, simulcast racing, a casino, dining, and a wide variety of live entertainment.
7.1 Miles
The East Village is known as being one of the more 'cool' areas of Des Moines as it features art shops and hosts the Latino Festival. Visitors will also be able to dine at a variety of local restaurants.
7.3 Miles
The Springwood 9 Theaters, also known as Fridley Theaters, offers guests the chance to enjoy first-run movies. The location offers both 2D and Real3D viewing experiences and guests can also host birthday parties at this location.
7.7 Miles
Visitors can help out the students of Iowa Culinary Institute by attending one of their gourmet dinners and providing feedback. The instructors guide the students while they prepare a seven course meal for their guests.
8.0 Miles
Built in the late 1800s, the Iowa Capitol Building hosts regular public tours in Des Moines. The building features artwork and historical carvings, as well as its most recognizable gold dome.
8.1 Miles
The growth and development of Iowa is displayed through numerous exhibits at the State Historical Museum. Historic artifacts and documents show many stories of the people of Iowa along side the natural history of the region.
8.3 Miles
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861 votes
909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines, IA 50309
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See more than 1000 varieties of plants at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Center in Iowa. The domed conservatory includes a tropical garden, desert garden and sculptures under one roof.
8.4 Miles
Treat yourself to a bit of musical culture at the Des Moines Symphony. Bask in the musical masterpieces of Beethoven, Bach, and Mozart, or catch a Cirque de la Symphonie performance.