Family-Friendly Places to Eat in Des Moines
Des Moines is booming with fun and unique places to eat. Our family loves to discover new places to eat. When it comes to restaurants and eating out as a family it is more than the tasty food and beverages, it is the experience we have while dining out. We enjoy eating out, trying new food and indulging on a great craft brew but all of these do not matter if our kids are not enjoying themselves too. Take a look at a few of our favorite family-friendly places to eat in Des Moines.
Big Acai Bowl
117 5th Street, West Des Moines
515-776-7129
Located in Valley Junction, is one of our favorite places to grab a healthy lunch or snack. We first fell in love with Big Acai Bowl when they launched their food truck. Their food truck was such a hit they went on to open TWO physical locations in Ankeny and Valley Junction. Our favorite place to dine is the Valley Junction location because of the spacious back area.
Bring games, play bags, do hula hoops, practice yoga, or just chill. During the Winter months it is a great area for the kids to burn off some extra energy and in the warmer months it is a great place to lounge and cool off.
Gusto Pizza Co.
8705 Chamberry Blvd. #100, Johnston; 515-334-3000
8950 University Ave., West Des Moines; 515-216-2198
2800 University Ave., West Des Moines; 515-225-1881
1905 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines; 515-244-8786
We enjoy a divine pie approximately 2-3 times a month. Gusto Pizza is much more than your average joe pizza, the toppings and creativity are endless. Our family enjoys spending a busy weeknight after activities chowing down on pizza and playing card games. We keep card games in our car to easily bring in when we eat out.
One of my favorite concoctions is The Elvis. Bacon and peanut butter on a pizza? Yes, please! BONUS: On Saturday and Sunday children can enjoy a free 7-inch single topping pizza and a fountain drink with the purchase of a 10 or 14-inch pizza.
The Hall
111 S 11th Street, West Des Moines
515-608-4100
If you follow me on Instagram you probably see us regularly visit The Hall in Valley Junction. We are huge fans of local craft brews and food trucks, so this is the perfect place to enjoy both worlds. The ambiance of The Hall is amazing too. I love the community feel, staff and the option to try multiple food trucks and local brews in one spot.
They have several games on hand to play. They also have a huge beer garden which is a great place to enjoy the outdoors during the warmer months.
Smash Park
6625 Coachlight Drive, West Des Moines
515-313-0700
Smash Park is filled with games for all ages and why it is another one of our other family-friendly places to eat in Des Moines. The one game they are known for is pickleball. Unfortunately, we have not had the chance to play, but we enjoy playing the multiple board games and life-size Connect 4 and Jenga they have on hand. They have an amazing outdoor area filled with games too. 
Their food and drinks are great too. The kids love the tater tots and their chicken and rubs are delish. You can easily spend hours playing games, watching games, eating and enjoying each other at Smash park.
Looking for where kids can eat free in the Des Moines area? Check out our Kids Eat Free Guide.
