- 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
Showing 121-130 of
144
0.0 Miles
Aged USDA Prime steaks, jumbo live Maine lobster, and wine at a fine-dining steakhouse
35.0 Miles
Visitors learn about history and culture at the Mamie Doud Eisenhower Birthplace. The small home has been staged to reflect the lifestyle of Mamie and the venue is run by knowledgeable guides who know every detail about the items in the house.
35.0 Miles
Showing the latest blockbuster titles, Fridley Theatres offers the Boone community a family-friendly movie going experience. The small theatre features multiple movie screens and a full service snack and candy bar.
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.
37.1 Miles
Golfers at the Bos Landen Golf Resort in Pella, Iowa enjoy a tranquil, serene experience unmatched by most other golf resorts. The public course has 18 holes. The Bos Landen Golf Resort is also available for group golfing, corporate meetings and weddings.
38.3 Miles
Not only does the Pella Opera House host performances, but it can also be reserved for weddings and other special events. The location features an organ, a dance floor, and a disco.
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.