- Our list of the best things to do in Des Moines, Iowa, features the top 83 nearby activities — including 35 great attractions with user approval ratings of 90% or more!
- Des Moines, IA has a variety of great sights and experiences nearby. Top categories include: Entertainment & Shows, Outdoor Places, Museums & Galleries, and Amusement.
- The results below include the top 28 things to do within the city of Des Moines, IA , followed by 55 popular activities in nearby cities, including West Des Moines, Urbandale, Ankeny, Indianola, Altoona, Madrid and Johnston
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0.0 Miles
Experienced photographer offers one-on-one photography tutoring sessions where clients learn the basics of photography
0.6 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.
2.9 Miles
In the middle of Des Moines, find two miles of trails surrounding a lake in the area known as Gray's Lake Park. The area features biking and walking paths, as well as fishing areas.
2.7 Miles
90%
1314 votes
E. 30th St. and University Ave., Des Moines, IA 50319
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The Iowa State Fairgrounds plays host to the annual Iowa State Fair each Fall. Visitors come for the midway games and rides, to see livestock, and to eat fair food.
1.2 Miles
The Downtown Farmers Market is open rain or shine from May through October. There are roughly 300 family farmers, artists, bakers, and crafters from around the state who participate in the large open-air market.
1.4 Miles
Principal Park is a minor league baseball stadium located in Des Moines, Iowa. The Iowa Clubs play at the stadium, which was rebuilt in the early 1990s at the same site it was in 1947 when it was called Pioneer Park.
3.9 Miles
19th and 20th century artwork is at home at the Des Moines Art Center. The facility includes three buildings, also housing art classes and special events for visitors and the community
3.9 Miles
The Pappajohn Sculpture Park is an urban, outdoor art venue located in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. The park, part of the Des Moines Art Center, includes sculptures from 21 artists in a park setting.
0.5 Miles
80%
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.
6.3 Miles
Adventureland is a theme park located in Des Moines, Iowa. The park includes thrill rides, as well as family and kiddie rides, and most recently added a water park called Adventure Bay.
5.7 Miles
See animals in their natural settings at the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa. Along with animal viewing, there are a handful of kiddie rides like the train, carousel and camels.