Discover Des Moines: A 4-Day Family Adventure!

Experience the heartland's charm and create lifelong memories in family-friendly Des Moines, USA!

19 July 2023

Des Moines, located in the heart of the United States, offers a delightful family-friendly getaway. With its wide range of attractions, families can explore interactive museums like the Science Center of Iowa, take a stroll through the Pappajohn Sculpture Park to admire unique artworks, and enjoy outdoor activities at the popular Gray's Lake Park. Moreover, the city's vibrant food scene, including farm-to-table restaurants, caters to the diverse tastes of all family members.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Explore the Heart of Des Moines

  • Check into Hotel Renovo, a boutique hotel with cool vibes and cozy rooms.
  • Start your day with an adrenaline-pumping visit to Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park.
  • Indulge your taste buds at El Bait Shop, a temple of craft beer with over 200 choices and delicious pub grub.
  • Stroll through East Village, a hipster paradise with quirky shops, local art, and scrumptious coffee stops.
  • Catch a performance at the Des Moines Civic Center, where the arts come alive on stage.
  • End your day with dinner at Zombie Burger, a delightfully creepy diner serving monstrous burgers and chilling shakes.
Day 2

Nature Bliss & Foodie Havens

  • Begin the day with a peaceful visit to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, a vibrant oasis of flora and fauna.
  • Take a picnic to Gray's Lake Park, where you can rent paddle boats and enjoy stunning lake views.
  • Savor brunch at the famous Waveland Café, where hearty plates of comfort food are the order of the day.
  • Explore the historic East Village and sample amazing chocolates at Chocolaterie Stam.
  • Dinner at Fong's Pizza is a must, a fusion of quirky Chinese-American eats with pizzas to die for.
Day 3

Cultural Delights & Food Trucks

  • Immerse yourself in Iowa's history at the State Historical Museum, featuring captivating exhibits and artifacts.
  • Visit the Art Center, showcasing everything from classical masterpieces to contemporary artworks.
  • For lunch, try some scrumptious dishes from food trucks parked along Western Gateway Park.
  • Take a walk through the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, where eye-catching sculptures dot the landscape.
  • Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Django, renowned for its French-inspired cuisine and cozy atmosphere.
Day 4

Animal Adventures & Local Brews

  • Head to Blank Park Zoo, where you'll encounter fascinating animals from around the globe.
  • Grab a bite at Zombie Burger (yes, again!) for a fun-filled lunch experience.
  • Explore the craft beer scene with a visit to Confluence Brewing Company for unique brews and a lively atmosphere.
  • Discover the charming Beaverdale neighborhood, known for its tree-lined streets and local shops.
  • Share a mouthwatering meal at A Dong, a hidden gem serving exceptional Vietnamese cuisine.
  • It's time to bid farewell to Des Moines, a thrilling city that has given you a taste of Midwest charm, artistic wonders, and delectable flavors. Until we meet again!

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Spend a Romantic Day in Des Moines

Des Moines offers a romantic trip full of nature, culture and memorable experiences. Take a stroll through Pappajohn Sculpture Park, indulge in local cuisine at the food halls and treat your senses to a wine-tasting session at one of the wineries on the Iowa Wine Trail. Des Moines is a perfect destination for couples looking to escape for a while and create unforgettable moments together.

3-Day Romantic Getaway: Des Moines Delights

Des Moines, the capital and largest city of Iowa, offers a romantic getaway experience in the heartland of America. The city's vibrant arts, culture, and culinary scenes entice couples with its unique charm and character. From exploring museums to indulging in romantic meals, Des Moines has everything to create unforgettable memories for a romantic trip.

Fun-filled day trip: Des Moines Delights

Des Moines is a vibrant city, rich in culture, history, and entertainment. It is home to notable landmarks such as the Iowa State Capitol and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, as well as numerous arts and cultural events. Visitors can also explore the city's many restaurants, bars, and shopping centers, making it a great destination for a fun-filled vacation.

Unleash Adventure in Des Moines on a Budget

Des Moines is a budget-friendly destination with plenty of free activities to enjoy. Explore the city's art scene with a visit to the Des Moines Art Center or take a stroll through the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Don't miss a chance to sample local cuisine at one of the city's many food trucks or farmers markets.