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!
SUMMER! Summer 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 summer weeks. Bookmark this page as your #1 resource to guide you through summer in Des Moines and keep coming back as we continue to add more guides and resources.
Summer is just around the corner, and many families are busy planning for an unforgettable summer in the Des Moines metro. The 2026 Summer Camp Directory is full of fun-packed day camps in the Des Moines area. This directory will help guide you to plan the ultimate camp experience for your child. Whether your children are looking for a summer day camp, outdoor, hands-on experiences, outdoor explorations, science experiments, learning new skills, fun games, overnight camp, or a different theme each wee,k we have it for you in this guide!
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, May 22nd 2026 – Sunday, May 24th 2026 Every weekend there are…
Top 8 Things To Do in Des Moines in June
Top 8 Things To Do in Des Moines in June Summer is here! Grab a beer at the Des Moines Biergarten, spend time at Grimes Governors Days, and explore the…
Wading Pools, Fountains, Spraygrounds in Des Moines
Wading Pools, Fountains, Spraygrounds in Des Moines There are many places around Greater Des Moines to enjoy water play for free! Many days grabbing the entire family to head to…
Sayers Park and Sprayground in Des Moines, Iowa
Sayers Park and Sprayground in Des Moines, Iowa The makeover at Sayers Park is complete with a brand new playground and sprayground! The playground features a daring structure that mimics…
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.
Top Wildlife Experiences in the Midwest
Top Wildlife Experiences in the Midwest If you’re looking to add some wild adventure to your next Midwest road trip, you’re in luck. From safari-style parks to charming alpaca farms…
Fun Places to See Animals in the Des Moines Area
Fun Places to See Animals in Des Moines, Iowa We love to see and play with animals whenever we can! Maybe it is my old veterinary technician heart shining through,…
Forest Park Forever – Free Fun in St. Louis
Forest Park Forever – Free Fun in St. Louis St. Louis, Missouri is probably one of my favorite cities in the Midwest. St. Louis is a great place to explore…
A Bucket List Experience at the Valle Drive-In
Valle Drive-In in Newton, Iowa Drive-in movie theaters are few and far between. In Iowa, there are only four including the Valle Drive-In located in Newton, Iowa. My parents remember…