Discover Des Moines: A Family-Friendly Adventure!

Discover family fun in the heart of Des Moines, USA's vibrant gem!

19 July 2023

Des Moines, located in the heartland of the United States, offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with a mix of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures. Explore the interactive exhibits at the Science Center of Iowa, immerse yourself in history at the State Historical Museum, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the stunning Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. With its welcoming atmosphere and a plethora of activities for all ages, Des Moines is a perfect destination for a memorable family getaway.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Des Moines

  • Check into the quirky Pappajohn Sculpture Park Hotel, where avant-garde sculptures double as nightstand lamps!
  • Start your adventures at the Des Moines Art Center, where awe-inspiring masterpieces will render your family speechless.
  • Grab a picnic lunch at Gray's Lake Park and strut your stuff on the mesmerizing Bridge of Dreams.
  • Time to channel your inner Indiana Jones at the Science Center of Iowa, where interactive exhibits will make your brain sizzle.
  • Get your adrenaline pumping at the Climb Iowa indoor rock climbing facility – conquer those walls, monkey-style!
  • End your day at Fong's Pizza, where hilariously inventive fusion pies like Crab Rangoon and Finders Keepers await to tantalize your taste buds.
Day 2

From Farms to Butterflies

  • Rise and shine at the Farmer's Market, a sensory wonderland where fresh produce, local artists, and live music collide.
  • Get a taste of rural charm at Living History Farms – milk a cow, ride a tractor, and embrace your inner pioneer!
  • Cruise to the Des Moines Botanical Garden, an idyllic sanctuary where exotic flora and fauna will transport you to a tropical land.
  • Lunch at Zombie Burger, where burgers are anything but ordinary – try the "Walking Ched" and unleash your inner monster.
  • Marvel at the enchanting Blank Park Zoo, home to cuddly creatures and ferocious predators – get up close and personal with nature.
  • Unwind and fill your bellies at the 801 Chophouse, where succulent steaks and velvety martinis will leave you feeling like royalty.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Des Moines by plane is to fly into Des Moines International Airport, which is located five miles southwest of downtown. Major airlines that operate at this airport include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.

Car

Driving is a convenient way to get to Des Moines as many major highways, including Interstates 35 and 80, run through the city. It is important to note that traffic congestion can be an issue during rush hour periods.

Train

There is no direct train service to Des Moines, so taking a train is not a recommended mode of transportation to get to the city.

Boat

Since Des Moines is not a coastal city, traveling by boat is not possible. However, boat tours are available on nearby rivers, such as the Des Moines River.

Bus

Taking the bus is an affordable way to get to Des Moines. Greyhound Lines and Jefferson Lines operate bus services to Des Moines, with the bus station located in downtown Des Moines at 100 Cherry Street.

Destination

Des Moines

Welcome to the landlocked city where corn and politics thrive, Des Moines! Don't let the lack of ocean fool you, this Midwest gem still has plenty to offer.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Romantic Weekend Getaway: Discover Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa, is a charming city perfect for a romantic getaway. Take a stroll through the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, enjoy a Broadway show at the Des Moines Civic Center or sip wine and enjoy live music at Summerset Winery for an unforgettable experience. Don't forget to indulge in local cuisine at popular restaurants like Bubba, Django or Centro.

Des Moines on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Des Moines is a charming city in the heartland of the United States. Despite being the state capital of Iowa, it's possible to experience the best of the city on a limited budget. From visiting the free Des Moines Art Center and the Iowa State Capitol building, to strolling through the scenic Gray's Lake Park, there's plenty of affordable activities for any budget-conscious traveler.

Discover Des Moines: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Des Moines, located in the heartland of the US, offers a number of budget-friendly attractions. Visitors can explore the state capitol, the award-winning art center, and the botanical gardens all for free. Foodies will appreciate the city's farm-to-table dining scene and the famous Iowa State Fairgrounds where thrifty travelers can enjoy a day at the fair for less than $15.

4-Day Romantic Escape to Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines is a charming city located in Iowa, United States, that is perfect for a romantic getaway. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural attractions, and cozy restaurants, couples can indulge in a wide range of activities to spark romance. From strolling through the Pappajohn Sculpture Park to enjoying a scenic hot air balloon ride, Des Moines has something to offer every couple looking for an unforgettable experience.