- 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 11-20 of
144
1.4 Miles
77%
431 votes
401 W Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, Des Moines, IA 50309
MoreLess Info
Science Center of Iowa includes a science museum and IMAX dome theater. Admission includes hands-on science experiments, as well as live demonstrations and programs about everything from chemistry to astronomy.
4.4 Miles
At Fleur Cinema & Cafe, visitors can watch a mix of independent, foreign, and blockbuster flicks in digital projection. In addition to movie theater popcorn, the concession stand offers alcoholic beverages and coffee to take into the theater.
7.9 Miles
The Clive Greenbelt Trail is pressed against the winding Walnut Creek through scenic wooded areas. In addition to the hiking and walking trail, there are several recreational and picnicking areas along the path.
3.6 Miles
The inspiration of the historic Salisbury House was the King's House that is still located in Salisbury, England. The Tudor style mansion is open for general tours that are self-guided or guided during certain days.
0.7 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.
0.9 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.
1.0 Miles
Celebrating the accomplishment of past, present, and future Iowans, the Iowa Hall of Pride is a nice ode to the state's residents. See local art, sculptures, videos, pictures, and written works from the state's most accomplished residents.
5.0 Miles
Spread over roughly 28 miles, the Saylorville Trail is a very popular bike ride path in the area. Since there are many places in which a biker can hop off then hop back on, the time for the trail can vary from person to person.
0.7 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.
1.9 Miles
Homemakers all over the world love to visit the Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden. The culture behemoth offers an opportunity for visitors to peak at beautiful landscapes, and trending outdoor styles.