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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The Holidays in Des Moines, Iowa, are filled with events and activities for the entire family. This holiday seaso,n do not miss fun holiday events, holiday cheer, Christmas lights, a place to find Santa, local shopping options, and more. The Holidays in Des Moines Guide will be your go-to resource. Make sure you have this page bookmarked. Happy Holidays!
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
Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend
Sharing is caring! Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Save Email Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend: Friday, November 6th 2026 – Sunday, November 8th 2026 Every weekend there are…
Perfect Parks for Teens and Tweens in Des Moines
Perfect Parks for Teens and Tweens in Des Moines We all know tweens and teens still love to move their bodies in challenging ways and spend time enjoying the outside….
8 New Places to Try in Des Moines This Fall
8 New Places to Try in Des Moines This Fall What is new in Des Moines this fall?! My kids love trying new activities, and luckily, the Des Moines Metro…
Des Moines Parent Summer Camp Fair
Des Moines Parent Summer Camp Fair Year SIX here we come! Save the date! The Des Moines Parent Summer Camp Fair is celebrating its 6th year on Saturday, February 13,…
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.
Christmas at St. Louis Union Station: A Family Holiday Guide
Christmas at St. Louis Union Station: A Family Holiday Guide Looking for a magical Midwest Christmas getaway with the kids? St. Louis Union Station in St. Louis, Missouri, transforms into…
Moms Getaway to Gulf Shores: 3-Day Alabama Beach Getaway
Moms Getaway to Gulf Shores: 3-Day Alabama Beach Getaway This article is in partnership with Alabama’s Beaches. All opinions and experiences are my own. Sometimes, moms need an adventure, too….
Escape to the Minnesota North Shore | A Family-Friendly Itinerary
Escape to the Minnesota North Shore | A Family-Friendly Itinerary The Minnesota North Shore is one of those Midwest destinations that truly feels like an escape. Located along Lake Superior…
8 Things I’d Tell a Des Moines Parent Before Their First Trip to Gulf Shores
8 Things I’d Tell a Des Moines Parent Before Their First Trip to Gulf Shores ** This post was sponsored by Alabama’s Beaches and Gulf Shores. All thoughts and opinions…