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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Winter in Des Moines, Winter Guide, sledding, indoor play, indoor Des Moines, things to do Des Moines, Des Moines kids, Des Moines families, Iowa 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!

There is no denying that most Iowa winters are spent indoors. Luckily, we have plenty of indoor options, as well as some fun winter activities to do outside. there is no drawing a blank this winter. Keep this guide handy for a winter break too!

Des Moines, indoor play, Rainbow of the Heartland, JouJou Des MoinesEnjoy Indoor Play in Des Moines. Take a look at our giant guide of places to play indoors!

Winter is here in Iowa! Do not get cooped up inside. Take a look our GIANT A to Zo Guide of Family Friendly Activities to do in and around Des Moines. PLUS, a FREE download to print off and color as you cross things off your list. Ready to have fun exploring Des Moines during the Winter months?

 

Des Moines Parent Event Calendar

Plan your week and weekend in Des Moines with our FREE extensive event calendar!

Explore the Outdoors!

Looking for a nearby park to explore? Take a look at our Interactive Park Map!

Interested in details for a specific park?Barrett Boesen Natural Playscape, natural playscape, Urbandale, parks, playgrounds 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

City Park in Bondurant, Iowa

Sharing is caring! Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Save Email City Park in Bondurant, Iowa The long awaited City Park playground in Bondurant, Iowa is finished and it is amazing! Kids eagerly…

Indoor Meet-Ups in Grimes

Indoor Meet-Ups in Grimes When the weather is nice, scheduling meet ups with other homeschool friends is easy and convenient due to the abundance of parks and playgrounds in central…

10+ Ice Skating Rinks in Des Moines, Iowa

10+ Ice Skating Rinks in Des Moines, Iowa The temperatures are beginning to drop in Iowa, but that does not mean you cannot have fun outdoors! One activity you and…

Valentine Dances and Events in Des Moines

Valentine Dances and Events in Des Moines 2025 It is that time of year to grab your little one and celebrate Valentine’s Day in Des Moines. From Valentine’s dances to…

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.

Eau Claire, Wisconsin, A Fantastic Destination for Families with Kids

Eau Claire, Wisconsin, A Fantastic Destination for Families with Kids Eau Claire, Wisconsin, nestled in the heart of the Midwest, is a vibrant and family-friendly city offering countless opportunities for…

Exploring Wonders at the Kiewit Luminarium {Omaha Luminarium}

Exploring Wonders at the Kiewit Luminarium {Omaha Luminarium} The Kiewit Luminarium is an extraordinary destination that offers a vibrant and enriching experience for people of all backgrounds and people of…

5+ Things To Do at Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska

5+ Things To Do at Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska Are you looking for a fun, outdoor adventure? Nature lovers rejoice! Plan a visit to Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska…

Family Fun at the Mall of America in the Twin Cities

Family Fun at the Mall of America in the Twin Cities A visit to the massive Mall of America is a family great getaway idea. The Twin Cities are only…