Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Visit Gulf Shores, Alabama**This post is sponsored by Alabama’s Beaches. All thoughts and opinions are my own.I am not very good at doing nothing on vacation. If we are visiting a new destination, I want to see it all. I want to find the hidden gems, try the restauran
Consignment Stores and Events for Children in Des MoinesAs a parent, you learn that children go through a lot of clothing. As newborns, they outgrow clothes at a rapid pace; then as toddlers, they acquire a lot of mystery stains. So instead of breaking the bank on new clothes every season, shop arou
A New Chapter at 2forU West: Investing in Quality Early Childhood EducationFinding the right childcare provider is one of the most important decisions a family can make. Parents want an environment where their children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn, while also having confidence in the p
Central Iowa Trek the Parks ChallengeDes Moines Parent want you to get outside this summer and explore central Iowa. That is why we have created the ‘Central Iowa Trek the Parks Challenge’. The communities within central Iowa offer many parks, trails, spray grounds, and more. We want you to get out
10+ Mom and Women’s Groups to Check Out Around Des MoinesMaking friends and networking as an adult isn’t always easy. Whether you’re new to the Des Moines area, a mom looking for connection, or simply hoping to meet people who share your interests, finding your community can take some effort.Fortuna
Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend: Friday, August 28th 2026 – Sunday, August 30th 2026Every weekend there are amazing Fun Things to do in Des Moines, Iowa! We have created a list of what we think are the most fun, most interesting family events in the Des Moines area this weekend – so you
Greenbelt Landing in Clive, IowaThe Greenbelt Landing in Clive, Iowa has been transformed into a destination park! This transformation of almost 15 acres brings a performance stage and festival lawn, an inclusive playground, boardwalk, trail connectors, fishing access, a renovated events building, a
30+ Local Des Moines Coffee Shops You Should Check Out!Coffee is pretty much a necessity if you are a parent. These Des Moines local coffee shops are perfect for hanging out, enjoying snacks, playing games with the kids, and getting that much-needed jolt of caffeine. Not only do I love coffee, but
Indoor Golf in Des Moines, Iowa – Unique Experiences and Indoor SimulationsLove to golf? But live in Iowa? Golfing in Iowa depends a lot on the weather, which is why indoor golf in Des Moines, Iowa is a great option! There are many unique golf opportunities and simulators in the Des Moines metro ar
20+ Things to See and Do in Grimes, IowaGrimes, Iowa is located northwest of the Des Moines area and is quickly growing with families and businesses. Some new and big things have recently opened in the area including the GrimesPlex, a new and larger library, a splash pad, and more. Grimes is a popul
Georgetown Park in Ankeny, IowaGeorgetown Park is a classic large neighborhood park that will draw in your kids! This playground is a large tri-shaped structure. My kids loved that each of them had their own “hallway” and “throne.” Their imaginations were sparked, which is a gift of playgrounds. My
Fort Des Moines Park in Des Moines, IowaFort Des Moines Park on the south side of Des Moines is a perfect outdoor oasis run by Polk County Conservation. This beautiful 135-acre park has a large pond, trails aplenty to hike, an arboretum, and a quaint playground. When we head to Fort Des Moines Park,
Beyond Hotels: The Most Unique Places to Stay in the MidwestIf your family loves to travel but you are ready to move beyond the standard hotel room, this list is for you. Across the Midwest, there are incredible, one-of-a-kind stays that turn a simple weekend away into a full experience. From sleepi
Des Moines Fall Festivals 2026The leaves will begin changing colors and temperatures will be dropping, which means it is my favorite season of all: fall! This time of year is a time for fall family fun, whether that be taking a drive to take in the fall foliage, heading to the pumpkin patches and pi
Top 8 Things To Do in Des Moines in September Summer is quickly coming to an official end, but the festivals are in full swing. This month, attend Norwalk Music Fest, enjoy a stein at Oktoberfest, or go bobbing for apples at Applefest at Living History Farms. Plan your September in Des Moines today.
Pumpkin Patches in Des MoinesGoing to the pumpkin patch is much more than just picking out the perfect pumpkin, it is an experience. Des Moines and surrounding communities offer a lot of options full of pumpkins, apple orchards, activities, mazes, and more. Pumpkin picking is just the beginning of f
Bubbly Bar & Bistro at the Iowa State Fair: A Hilltop Haven for FamiliesIf you’re looking for the perfect spot to relax, refuel, and enjoy a little shade during your Iowa State Fair adventure, look no further than Bubbly Bar & Bistro. Perched at the top of the hill, just above the bustling fair stre
Action! Catch a Show at the Des Moines PlayhouseLooking for a fun family outing or date night idea? Head to the Des Moines Playhouse for an incredible show. The 2026-27 lineup is filled with shows you will not want to miss. Season tickets are currently on sale now.Take a look at the Des Moines Playh
Fall Festival at Bloomsbury Farm in IowaOne of our favorite parts of fall is exploring fun seasonal festivals and farms. Whether it be swimming in a corn pool, taking all the Instagram-worthy photo ops, or eating fall-themed treats it is the perfect time to celebrate. Bloomsbury Farm located in Atki
From Pixar’s Cars to Classic Cars: Family Fun Awaits in Downtown Des MoinesDiscover the Des Moines Concours d’Elegance on Sunday, Sept. 13.If you’re looking for a unique family outing this September, the 2026 Des Moines Concours d’Elegance belongs on your calendar.On Sunday, Sept. 13, downtown Des
Hunt for Trolls + Stay on Iowa’s Only Island: A Weekend Getaway to Clinton and Sabula, IowaIf you are looking for a unique Iowa road trip that involves hunting for giant trolls, sipping coffee, wandering local shops, eating really good food and waking up on the Mississippi River, add Clinton and Sab
Dozer Day in Des Moines, IowaCalling construction fans of all ages! Welcome to Dozer Day, where you can watch a car get smashed like a pancake, operate heavy machinery, play games and step inside a tunnel boring machine.Dozer Day was started in Vancouver, Washington, by the Nutter Family Foundation,
Linnan Park in Clive, IowaThe brand new Linnan Park design is striking! It will wow you and your kids! This brightly colored and nature themed large playground area will draw you in. The main area has a stacked tower that invites kids to explore and climb independently while discovering many differe
Loews Kansas City Hotel: A Family-Friendly Kansas City GetawayLoews Kansas City Hotel is located right in the heart of Kansas City, making it a convenient home base for exploring everything the city has to offer. But what really caught our attention? Loews is making the hotel itself part of the fami
