- The list below includes 59 free or cheap things to do in or near Des Moines, Iowa, including 52 different types of inexpensive activities like Movie Theaters, History Museums, Bike Paths and Bowling.
- From East Village to Saylorville Trail, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Des Moines and in nearby cities within 25 miles like West Des Moines, Urbandale, Ankeny and Indianola.
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Friends and family gather at this lively bowling alley, which offers open bowling time seven days per week
35.3 Miles
Featuring exhibits detailing the history of railroading from the Civil War until present day, Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad and James H. Andrew Railroad Museum displays railroad photographs and video footage. The museum also organizes train rides from the depot.
36.1 Miles
Iowa's largest lake, Lake Red Rock, is located within an hour's drive from Des Moines. The lake spans 15,000 acres, with an additional 35,000 acres of coastland. It is a popular destination for hiking, swimming, fishing and kayaking.
36.2 Miles
Forever memorialized in the novel, 'The Bridges of Madison County,' Roseman Bridge is one of several beautiful covered bridges in Winterset, Iowa. It is a popular photography location, especially in the full autumnal splendor of September, October and early November,
36.8 Miles
Preserved and maintained by the Iowa Historical Society, the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad is a working rail line and mobile museum that offers rides on vintage locomotives. It is open seasonally and closes each winter.
38.3 Miles
Running since 1855, Pella Public Library provides visitors with a plethora of books to choose from in different formats like digital and audio. The city hosts a genealogy club where members of the town can learn about their family history.
38.3 Miles
Pella Cinema is a quaint theater located in Pella. Locals enjoy taking in a new film on one of the theaters three screens while enjoying refreshments from the snack bar.
38.4 Miles
11%
951 votes
507 Franklin Street, Pella, IA
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Pella, Iowa's Historical Village, Vermeer Windmill & Scholte House is a living history museum. Its two-story main building is available for docent-guided tours. Each tour lasts roughly 45 minutes. Visitors are also welcome to explore many parts of this attraction on their own.
38.4 Miles
The Pella Historical Society is a group dedicated to preserving and promoting the local history of the area. Tours are offered of the many local historical attractions, including a history museum, flower gardens, and the childhood home of Wyatt Earp.
38.4 Miles
The Vermeer Mill was constructed in 2002 in the local historic district, based on the windmills familiar in old Europe. An actual working facility, guides offer tours and insight on the milling process and its history in the area.
39.2 Miles
Excit-A-Bowl is a bowling alley and restaurant that offers youth bowling and group events. Late night bowling promotions are regularly featured as well as daily specials and adult league play.