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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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!
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!
Eggs hunt, bunnies, and eggs everywhere. There are a ton of opportunities to hunt for eggs in Des Moines this Spring. Check out our list of Des Moines Easter Egg Hunts for 2026.
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
Play That Meets Parents Needs: PLAYgrounds Cafe in Waukee, Iowa
Sharing is caring! Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Save Email Play That Meets Parents Needs: PLAYgrounds Cafe in Waukee, Iowa Get excited parents! There is now a unique coffee shop located in…
Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend
Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend: Friday, March 6th 2026 – Sunday, March 8th 2026 Every weekend there are amazing Fun Things to do in Des Moines, Iowa!…
St. Patrick’s Day Fun in Des Moines for Kids
St. Patrick’s Day Fun in Des Moines for Kids St. Patrick’s Day is a fun holiday to celebrate for all ages. While many of us may think of green beer…
Indoor Birthday Parties in Des Moines
Indoor Birthday Parties in Des Moines, Iowa I have updated AND added some more awesome indoor birthday party ideas! Check out the list below. If I am missing somewhere, feel…
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.
Science City at Union Station in Kansas City
Science City at Union Station in Kansas City When our family travels I am always looking to see if there is a children’s museum, science center, or zoo nearby. Over…
Year-Round Family Adventures in Galena, Illinois
​Planning a family getaway to Galena, Illinois? Galena is the perfect destination for family adventures all year round! No matter the season, Galena is packed with family-friendly activities. Take a…
Beyond Hotels: The Most Unique Places to Stay in the Midwest
Beyond Hotels: The Most Unique Places to Stay in the Midwest If your family loves to travel but you are ready to move beyond the standard hotel room, this list…
Spring Break in the Midwest
Spring Break in the Midwest Spring Break is a few weeks away. What are you doing during that week of no school? If you are not staying in Des Moines…