12 Simple Family Outings in Des Moines: One Easy Idea for Every Month
Looking for easy, meaningful ways to spend time together as a family without overplanning or overspending? This list of 12 simple family outings in Des Moines gives you one low-stress idea for every month of the year. Think small adventures, seasonal fun, and everyday memories that add up to something really special.
Bookmark this list and come back to it all year long.
January: Library or Bookstore Day
Start the year cozy and calm with a visit to a local library or bookstore. Head to a Des Moines Public Library branch for storytime, puzzles, and play in the children’s area (the Grimes Public Library has a great one!), or browse shelves at Storyhouse Bookpub. Let each child pick out a few books to take home and read together all month long.
Check out these posts to plan:
February: Sweet Treat Date
Make February extra sweet with a family dessert date. Grab hot chocolate, cookies, or chocolates from a local favorite like Chocolaterie Stam and enjoy a slow moment together. No reservations required.
Check out these posts to plan:
March: Visit a Free Museum
Shake off winter with a culture day! Visit the Des Moines Art Center or the State Historical Museum of Iowa, both of which offer free admission and plenty of hands-on learning for kids.
April: Plan Your Garden
Spring is the perfect time to dream. Wander a local garden center like Canoyer Garden Center, pick out seeds or plants, and talk about what you want to grow together this year, even if it’s just herbs in a pot.
Check out these posts to plan:
May: Explore a New Playground or Park
Make it a goal to try a park you’ve never visited before. Whether it’s a neighborhood playground or a larger destination park, pack snacks, let the kids play, and enjoy being outside again.
Check out these posts to plan:
- Never miss a park review here.
- Take part in the annual Central Iowa Trek the Parks Challenge!
June: Berry Picking Adventure
June is berry season in Iowa! Visit Berry Patch Farm to pick strawberries or other berries, then head home and bake something simple together. Muffins, shortcake, or even just berries and whipped cream. Take a look at all the best places to berry pick across central Iowa.
July: Town Carnival or Summer Festival
Summer in Iowa means carnivals, rides, and fair food. Check out a local town celebration or festival, eat all the treats, ride the rides, and let the kids stay up a little later than usual.
Check out these posts to plan:
August: Water Day
Beat the heat with a full water day. Visit a splash pad, pool, creek, or lake, wherever your family loves to cool off. Keep it simple and let the water do the entertaining.
Check out these posts to plan:
- Splash Pads and Wading Pools in Des Moines
- Pools and Aquatic Centers in Des Moines
- Natural Playscapes in Des Moines
September: Apple Picking
Head to your favorite orchard for apple picking and fall vibes. Make it fun by ranking your favorite apples or deciding what dessert to make together at home.
October: Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival
October is all about pumpkins and fall fun. Visit a pumpkin patch, see who can find the “perfect” family pumpkin, and enjoy hayrides, games, and seasonal treats.
Check out these posts to plan:
November: Take a Family Hike
Before winter fully settles in, bundle up and hit the trails. Jester Park is a great spot for an easy family hike and some fresh air before the cold arrives.
December: Night of Lights
End the year with twinkly magic. Drive or walk through local light displays. Bring along hot cocoa, and soak in the holiday season together.
Make It Your Family Tradition
These outings do not have to be big or expensive, they just have to be intentional. Pick one each month, snap a photo, and watch how quickly these small moments turn into favorite memories.
Looking for even more family fun ideas? Explore hundreds of local guides or snag a copy of 100 Things To Do in Des Moines. The FREE Des Moines Parent Event Calendar is also an excellence resource when planning adventures around Des Moines, Iowa.
