9 Things Any Family Can Do at the West Des Moines RecPlex
The MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex is a newer indoor sports facility in the Des Moines area. Many may think this sports center is for those who are in competition sports, hockey, or youth sports programs, but the West Des Moines RecPlex welcomes everyone of all abilities and has something to offer for all sports levels. If you are looking for something unique and fun to do in the Des Moines area, the RecPlex is a one-of-a-kind destination!
Here are the top 9 things any family can do at the West Des Moines RecPlex.
Public Indoor Ice Skating
If you are looking for an indoor place to ice skate in the Des Moines area, the West Des Moines RecPlex offers public ice skating at various times throughout the week. It is a great place to practice your ice skating skills and get some movement in. They offer two large ice rinks. The day we skated one of the indoor ice arenas had fun black lights on which was a ton of fun. You can bring your own ice skates or rent ice skates from the RecPlex for $4 per pair. They also offer skate mates for free.
In addition to public ice skating the RecPlex and the West Des Moines Parks & Recreation department work together to put on fun skate events such as a Valentine Skate and Skate with Santa. They also offer Learn to Skate programs throughout the year.
- View the Public Skating Schedule here.
- Admission: $7 per skater
- Skate Rental: $4 per pair
Birthday Parties
Throw a party at one of the biggest sports centers in the Des Moines metro! The wonderful thing about a birthday at the RecPlex is the sky is the limit. There are many spaces to rent including the ice arena, basketball courts, meeting rooms, batting cages, Pickleball courts, outdoor turf, indoor turf, Esports center, and tons more spaces. Contact RecPlex and work directly with their staff to plan the perfect birthday party using one of their special events spaces.
Parent’s Night Out + Kid Camps
Drop the kids off for a night or day of fun at the West Des Moines RecPlex!
Parent’s Night Out is offered a couple of times per month and is for children ages 5-12 years. Drop the kids off while you head to dinner. The kids will enjoy crafts, playing games, making friends, and a pizza party. Some Parent’s Night Out has a fun theme! Register for this event via the West Des Moines Parks & Recreation website here.
School is out! Sign the kids up for hours of fun at the RecPlex for Kids Camp. The kids will participate in fun, crafts, games, snacks, lunch and so much more. Take a look at all Kid Camps offerings and register here.
Play Pickleball
Pickleball is a new and hot sport. Grab some friends of the family and enjoy Drop-In Pickleball at the RecPlex on the court.
- View the Drop-In Pickleball schedule here.
- Admission: $5 per person
RecPlex Grill
Don’t go hungry while playing at this unique facility! The RecPlex Grill offers food and drink including alcoholic beverages. You can find items such as a big pretzel and cheese, chicken strips, nachos, hot dogs, healthy salads, sandwiches, and more. A great place to grab a snack between games or playing.
** No outside food and beverages are allowed according to the RecPlex website.
Toddler Time at RecPlex
Need some place for your toddler to run and play? The RecPlex offers Drop-In Toddler Time for children ages 4 years and younger. Families are encouraged to utilize the indoor turf field to walk and socialize while their children play. You can bring in balls and toys to play with. The RecPlex does offer some balls to play with during Toddler Time. A great opportunity to get movement in for the entire family.
- View the Drop-In Toddler Time schedule here.
- Admission: $1 per person
- 5 laps around the indoor field = 1 mile
Drop-In Turf Fun
Not a toddler? No worries! You still can have fun playing on the indoor soccer field too. Drop-In Turf allows children and adults year-round access to practice soccer, football, lacrosse, or other turf activities. Bring some friends of the family for some fun family time full of movement.
- View the Drop-In Turf schedule here.
- Admission: $5 per person
The Overlook Room
If you have kids old enough to play on their own during drop-in times, head to the Overlook Room and get some work done. This area is 2,200 square feet of space with tables, chairs, TVs, and more that overlooks the basketball court and turf fields. You can work alone, rent the space for a party, or bring some board games and have some friend/family time. This is a unique space full of possibilities.
Esports Center
What is the E-Sports Arena? If you have a child or family member who loves gaming, this is the spot for them! This area contains water-cooled computers, six-game consoles, and lounging. Whether you are new to gaming or are a pro there is something for everyone. Some examples offered are Multi-Player Online Battle Arenas, First Person Shooters, Digital Collectible Card games, and more. They also offer an Intro to Esports for children in grades 2n – 8th who want to learn more.
- View the Drop-In Esports schedule here.
- Admission: $8 per person
Where is the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex located?
The RecPlex is located in the city of West Des Moines at 6500 Grand Avenue. Questions? Call 515-440-4820.
