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.
We invite you to explore parenting topics, things to do, events to attend, places to travel, and more.
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Plan your adventures!
Fall in Des Moines, Iowa is full of fun activities and events. We have gathered all the fun in one place so you can plan your pumpkin patch and apple orchard trips this season. Bookmark this page as your #1 resource to guide you through Fall in Des Moines
Keep track of holiday events that happen in Des Moines every holiday season, from promenades and Santa arrivals to seeing lights and more. Take a look at this list and plan your holiday season.
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
Des Moines Indoor Play for Kids!
Sharing is caring! Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Save Email Des Moines Indoor Play for Kids! A giant list of Des Moines indoor play for kids to run, play, and burn off…
A to Z Winter Guide of Family Friendly Activities Around Des Moines
A to Z Winter Guide of Family Friendly Activities Around Des Moines, Iowa At the Des Moines Children’s Museum, they are constantly asked what else Des Moines and surrounding communities…
Organized Activities for Babies and Toddlers in Des Moines
Organized Activities for Babies and Toddlers in Des Moines The best advice I was given as a first-time mom was to get out of the house with my kids. Not…
Be Hoppy! 6 Places to Jump and Bounce in Central Iowa
Be Hoppy! 6 Places to Jump and Bounce in Central Iowa Have you heard the song Jump Around by the Imagination Movers? That song describes my house during the day,…
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.
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…
Winter Wonderscape Experience at Reiman Gardens
Winter Wonderscape Experience at Reiman Gardens Reiman Gardens located in Ames, Iowa near, Iowa State University, is a year-round attraction many families think of visiting during the warmer months, but…
