Welcome to Des Moines Parent! We are your premier resource for all things to do in Des Moines and throughout the Midwest for parents and families. Our goal is to make it easy for you to connect with resources, meet other parents in our community, and support local.
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Plan your adventures!
Winter in Des Moines can be brutal, but we have a ton of options for you to stay warm and play or bundle up and get some fresh air outdoors. Find a spot to ice skate, sled, jump indoors, or roller skate. There is something to do for all ages in Des Moines, Iowa. Make sure you have this guide bookmarked!
We have compiled some of our favorite things to do in colder weather (along with a few best places for weekend getaways and day trips, all in Iowa), so there is no drawing a blank this winter. Keep this guide handy for a winter brea,k too!
Des Moines is a city full of unique experiences and places to explore. Luckily, it does not need to cost a ton to explore everything Des Moines has to offer. Some of the best things are free! Read on to discover all the FREE things to do in Des Moines, Iowa.
Explore the Outdoors!
Interested in details for a specific park?
We have you covered! We have detailed reviews for many parks across the Des Moines metro. Know all the details before you go!
Things to do in Des Moines
Beat the Winter Blues at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Sharing is caring! Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Save Email Beat the Winter Blues at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Winter in Iowa can feel long and dreary, but you don’t…
Snowshoeing in Des Moines
Snowshoeing in Des Moines You cannot wish the snow away, so why not embrace a winter wonderland? Snowshoeing (and Cross Country Skiing) in Des Moines, Iowa can be a fun…
Jurassic Quest at Iowa Events Center
Jurassic Quest at Iowa Events Center Calling all dinosaur enthusiasts near and far! The “largest and most realistic traveling dinosaur experience in North America” is coming back to Des Moines!…
30+ Local Des Moines Coffee Shops You Should Check Out!
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…
Travel
We love the 515 but there are many great places to travel to in Iowa and throughout the Midwest. Take a look at some of our places to visit and plan your next family adventure! For all the travel reviews, check here.
Winter Family Getaway: Cozy Small-Town Charm in McHenry County
Winter Family Getaway: Cozy Small-Town Charm in McHenry County Winter doesn’t have to mean staying home. If your family is craving a cozy Midwest getaway that is easy, walkable, and…
Family-Friendly Winter Fun in Door County, Wisconsin
Family-Friendly Winter Fun in Door County, Wisconsin Door County, Wisconsin, is a magical destination year-round, but it truly shines during winter. Whether you’re looking for festive holiday activities, outdoor adventures,…
The Durham Museum | History, Trains, Dinosaurs, Oh my!
The Durham Museum | History, Trains, Dinosaurs, Oh my! Omaha, Nebraska is only a few short hours away from home. Most recently, we have fallen in love with The Durham…
Holiday Parades in Central Iowa
Holiday Parades in Central Iowa 2025 The nights are long this time of year, and lighted parades are a joyful way to brighten the season. With various themes and activities…
