Indoor Playgrounds Around Des Moines, IowaWhen Iowa weather turns cold, windy, rainy, or just unpredictable, indoor playgrounds become a lifesaver for families. Whether you have a busy toddler, an adventurous elementary-aged kid, or siblings spanning multiple ages, Greater Des Moines offers several
Spring Break in Des Moines 2026Spring Break Des Moines 2026 is just around the corner, and we are here to help you create a memorable Spring Break. Whether the entire family is staying in the Des Moines area to explore or you need to find a fun camp or workshop, there are enough ways to have fun all
If you are searching for a new indoor activity in Des Moines that combines technology, sports, and family fun, the newly launched Batbox at Smash Park is worth adding to your list.Batbox brings an immersive baseball and softball simulator experience to Central Iowa, offering players of all ages the
Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend: Friday, February 20th 2026 – Sunday, February 22nd 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
Top 8 Things To Do in Des Moines in MarchCheer on the Iowa Wolves, explore your creative side at Entirely Kids Day at the Des Moines Art Center, or celebrate at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade! Spring is just around the corner in Des Moines, so plan your March in Des Moines today.Bookmark these other f
Consignment Stores for Adults in Des Moines, Iowa Parents often overlook themselves when shopping. We get distracted by all the cute children’s clothing and forget that we also deserve a new outfit or two. Buying clothing for ourselves doesn’t need to be expensive so that’s why we’ve curated a list
Margo Frankel Woods State Park in Des Moines, IowaMargo Frankel Woods State Park nestled between Des Moines and Ankeny is the perfect place to make a quick escape into nature. This state park is a small, wooded area with a couple of trails, a seasonal stream and a couple of quaint, shaded playground
Spring Break in the MidwestSpring Break is a few weeks away. What are you doing during that week of no school? If you are not staying in Des Moines to participate in one of the many fun events and activities, maybe you are planning a road trip to somewhere fun. I have rounded up some of my favorite
Ultimate Guide to Family Friendly Road Trip Stops on I-80If you are road-tripping through Iowa along Interstate 80, you may be looking for a perfect quick stop to have kids burn energy, have a picnic, stretch your legs, or spend a little time in nature. Luckily, this stretch of interstate has severa
East Village with Kids in Des Moines, Iowa The Historic East Village is a popular spot in central Iowa. The East Village is located on the East side of the Des Moines River in Downtown Des Moines. It is loaded with fun things to see and do for all ages including kids! If you are looking to kill time
Swim Lessons in Des MoinesSoon enough our children will be wanting to take a dip in the pool. Now is the time to do your research and begin registering your child for swim lessons in Des Moines, Iowa so they can be confident swimmers. Learning to do the back float and breaststroke is important and s
Pickleball in Des Moines, IowaPickleball has become increasingly popular over the past few years and is the fastest-growing sport. Des Moines has caught onto the trend and has classes and courts all over the metro for families to enjoy the sport of pickleball. Des Moines Metro Pickleball Club is a l
Monster Jam in Des Moines, IowaBackflips, donuts, wheelies, and so much more… the Monster Jam tour returns to Wells Fargo Arena on April 11-12, 2026! Read below for an event overview and tips, then make sure to get your tickets for breathtaking, big-air action this spring.** This post may contain af
Celebrate Women’s History Month in Des MoinesWomen’s History Month is celebrated in March. So many women have played a huge role in American history. There are several ways you and your family can celebrate the contributions of women over the years. Here is a list of fun ways to honor and celebrate
Sleep with the Cows in IowaIf you have been following Des Moines Parent for a while, you know our family is always for a fun and quirky experience. When I learned about an experience of sleeping with cows in Iowa, I was in! The best part of traveling is discovering fun experiences, meeting new peopl
12 Simple Family Outings in Des Moines: One Easy Idea for Every MonthLooking for easy, meaningful ways to spend time together as a family without overplanning or overspending? This list of 12 simple family outings in Des Moines gives you one low-stress idea for every month of the year. Think small a
Pella Weekend Getaway: A Retreat at The Rock HouseIf you are searching for the perfect Pella weekend getaway, look no further than The Rock House, a charming historic cottage that blends Dutch heritage with modern comfort. Whether you are planning a relaxing girls’ weekend or a quiet couples’ escape
8 New Family-Friendly Restaurants to Try in Des Moines Winter 2026Many restaurants are opening this winter in the Des Moines metro, and we have rounded up the top family-friendly spots. From cozy brunch places to ice cream shops and fun dining experiences, these venues are perfect for families eager
Winter Sensory Friendly and Inclusive Events in Des Moines 2026There are lots of fun winter events and activities scheduled in Des Moines. We have gathered events both around the metro as well as some around the state that are sensory-friendly and inclusive for all families. We have also included ad
Des Moines Parent Summer Camp FairWe’re back for year five … at a NEW Location!Save the date! The Des Moines Parent Summer Camp Fair, sponsored by Paws & Pints, is celebrating its 5th year on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. We are so excited to bring this family-favorite event to
10 New Places to Try in Des Moines This WinterWarm up this winter at new shops, restaurants, and play places around Des Moines. And if we get lucky with a few warm days then check out the new parks too!Two Rivers Park in Downtown Des Moines, IowaAmes Play YardAddress: 2175 232nd Ln., Ames, Iowa 500
20+ Things to See and Do in Urbandale, IowaUrbandale, Iowa is located to the West of Des Moines, Iowa, just south of Grimes, Iowa and only a hop, skip and jump from downtown Des Moines. Just like many other communities in the Des Moines metro, Urbandale is growing with new businesses and development
10+ Ice Skating Rinks in Des Moines, IowaThe temperatures are beginning to drop in Iowa, but that does not mean you cannot have fun outdoors! One activity you and your family may enjoy is ice skating in Des Moines. This is a great activity for people of all ages! Enjoy the open air lace up those ska
Say “I Do” to an Easy, Fun Wedding in AltoonaWedding planning can feel like a full-time job. Venues, hotels, food, logistics, guest travel…it adds up fast. That’s why more couples are looking just east of Des Moines and discovering how easy (and fun!) it can be to host their wedding in Altoona.Close
