Indoor Playgrounds Around Des Moines, Iowa
When Iowa weather turns cold, windy, rainy, or just unpredictable, indoor playgrounds become a lifesaver for families. Whether you have a busy toddler, an adventurous elementary-aged kid, or siblings spanning multiple ages, Greater Des Moines offers several indoor play spaces designed to keep kids active year-round.
Here is your updated guide to indoor playgrounds around Des Moines, Iowa, including addresses, pricing information, and what makes each space unique.
Interested in other indoor play ideas in Des Moines? Check out our Indoor Play in Des Moines Guide.
Ames Play Yard
Address: 2175 232nd Ln., Ames, Iowa
Cost:
- $10 for ages 1–3
- $18 for ages 4–12+
- Memberships, play packs, and birthday parties are available
The Ames Play Yard is a thoughtfully designed indoor play space that works well for families with multiple ages. The large play structure is rated for kids up to age 12, while a separate side area is specifically designed for children ages 0–4, making it feel safer and less overwhelming for little ones. Families love the ample seating options with benches on one side and picnic tables on the other. The environment feels clean, contained, and community-focused, and the option for memberships makes it a great recurring outing during the winter months.
JouJou Des Moines
Address: 906 42nd St, Des Moines, Iowa
Cost:
- $13 for day passes – discount for multiple kids
- Membership options offered
JouJou Des Moines is a Montessori-inspired play space designed specifically for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Rather than a giant indoor playground, you will find thoughtfully curated materials, small climbing structures, sensory experiences, and hands-on stations that encourage independent, open-ended exploration. Every element of the space is intentionally designed to support early childhood development in a calm, bright, and welcoming environment. It is an ideal option for younger children who thrive in a more peaceful setting and are not quite ready for large, high-energy indoor play centers.
Kids Empire
Address: 3800 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines, Iowa, or 6805 Mills Civic Pkwy, West Des Moines, Iowa
Cost:
- 0 to 11 months FREE
- 1 to 17 years old $22.90
- Adults – 2 FREE entries per child
Kids Empire is known for its vibrant, high-energy play environment. The large, colorful climbing structures are designed for kids to climb high, explore tunnels, and navigate multiple levels. There is typically a toddler-friendly area for younger children. The space is well-suited for families with a wide age range and is a strong option when the goal is active play rather than quiet exploration.
Playgrounds Café
Address: 293 SE Westown Pkwy, Waukee, Iowa
Cost:
- Single child day pass – $13
- Multi-visit play pack available
- Membership options available
Playgrounds Café blends a coffee shop experience with a modern indoor play space. Designed primarily for younger children, the space includes soft play structures and open areas for imaginative play. What makes this spot stand out is the café environment parents can enjoy coffee or light bites while keeping an eye on their kids. It is a popular meeting place for playdates, moms’ groups, and birthday parties, especially during the colder months. Keep an eye on their social pages for special events they regularly have too!
Playgrounds For Kids
Address: 2401 SE Tones Dr., Suite 7, Ankeny, Iowa
Cost:
- $8 for walkers to 23 months
- $11 for 2-12 years of age
- All day admission(allows you to leave and come back) – $10 for walkers to 23 months ; $13 for 2-12 yrs
- Punch cards available
Playgrounds For Kids is designed with families in mind. This indoor play center focuses on movement, imagination, and big energy fun.
Kids can bounce on five inflatables, explore an enormous tree house-style play structure, race down the triple-lane rainbow slide, twist through the cork slide, and dive into the Wacky Ball room. As one of the largest indoor playgrounds in the metro, it features a massive multi-level structure with tunnels, climbing areas, and obstacle-style features that are perfect for burning serious energy.
While it especially appeals to elementary-aged children, there are areas designed for younger kids as well. The spacious layout and dedicated party rooms also make it a popular choice for birthday celebrations and weekend outings when the weather keeps everyone indoors.
Rainbow of the Heartland
Address: 3300 SE Crossroads Dr, Grimes, Iowa
Cost:
- $9 per child
- Punch cards available
Rainbow of the Heartland is technically a showroom for premium backyard playsets, but during open play hours, families can bring kids in to test out the displays. You will find high-quality swing sets, climbing features, slides, and imaginative backyard-style setups all under one roof. It is a unique indoor play option in the Des Moines metro and a great free alternative when you need a quick outing.
Valley Community Center
Address: 4444 Fuller Rd, West Des Moines, Iowa
Cost: FREE
Valley Community Center is one of the best-kept secrets in West Des Moines and one of the most budget-friendly. The indoor play area is completely free and open to the public, making it an easy go-to when you need to get out of the house without spending money. The space is designed primarily for younger children and offers a safe, contained environment for climbing and exploring.
Beyond the indoor playground, Valley Community Center also offers open gym times, youth activities, and a variety of kids’ classes throughout the week. Before heading out, it’s a good idea to check their event calendar online to confirm open play hours and see what special programming may be happening that day.
Bonus: parents can grab snacks and coffee from the on-site Maplenol Café, making it an even more convenient stop for a morning outing or afternoon break.
Tips for Visiting Indoor Playgrounds in Des Moines
- Bring socks. Many indoor playgrounds require socks for both kids and adults.
- Check age guidelines. Some locations are better suited for toddlers, while others cater to older kids.
- Look into memberships. If you plan to visit regularly during winter, memberships can provide significant savings.
- Visit during off-peak hours. Weekday mornings are often quieter than weekends.
Indoor playgrounds in the Des Moines area provide year-round solutions for active families. Whether you are planning a playdate, a birthday party, or simply need to get out of the house, these spaces offer safe, engaging environments for kids to move, imagine, and explore.
If you are new to the area or building your winter bucket list, consider bookmarking this guide for the next cold snap.
