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!
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 and keep coming back as we continue to add more guides and resources.
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
Free Fun at Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland
Sharing is caring! Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Save Email Free Fun at Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland Back by popular demand, the Bass Pro Shop will be hosting its annual Santa’s…
Des Moines Indoor Play for Kids!
Des Moines Indoor Play for Kids! A giant list of Des Moines indoor play for kids to run, play, and burn off energy during the winter months. We have gathered…
Best Decorated Halloween Displays in Des Moines
Best Decorated Halloween Displays in Des Moines We all love the array of Christmas light displays that happen annually, but recently you may have noticed an increase in Halloween displays…
Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend
Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend: Friday, October 9th 2026 – Sunday, October 11th 2026 Every weekend there are amazing Fun Things to do in Des Moines, Iowa!…
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.
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…
Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Visit Gulf Shores, Alabama
Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Visit Gulf Shores, Alabama **This post is sponsored by Alabama’s Beaches. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I am not very good…