When outsiders think of Des Moines, Iowa, they might picture a few buildings in the middle of a cornfield. But locals and visitors know that there’s so much more to explore in Des Moines and Central Iowa.
Here at Des Moines Outdoors, we’re making it our mission to help you find the best the area has to offer. So, whether you’re looking for bike trails, hiking, parks, outdoor activities, or exciting things to see, we got you covered.
Explore all there is to see and do in the Des Moines area. Here are some great places to get you started.
More to explore in Des Moines
- Des Moines Parks: Our 10+ Favorite Parks for Outdoor Activities
- A Guide to Des Moines RV Parks
- Des Moines Farmers Market: An Atmosphere of Fun, Food, and Festivity
- Pools in Des Moines: Find A Fun Pool or Aquatic Center Near You
- Mini Golf in Des Moines: Find a Fun Mini-Golf Course Near You
- Top Des Moines Golf Courses: Play One or Play ‘Em All!
- A One Page Guide to Disc Golf in the Des Moines Area
- Des Moines Public Basketball Courts: Find a Court Near You
- Tennis & Pickleball Courts in Des Moines: Find an Outdoor Public Court Near You
- A Guide to Des Moines Boat Rentals: Find the Best One for You!
- Archery in Des Moines, Iowa: A Short Guide to Area Archery
- Outdoor Concerts in Des Moines: Your Guide to the Best Venues
- Des Moines Botanical Garden: Explore the Beauty of Nature Any Time of Year
- Des Moines Dog Parks Map and Guide
- The Best Natural Playgrounds In and Around Des Moines
- Prairies Near Des Moines: Exploring Our Beautiful Native Land
- Find a Tree Nursery in Des Moines: Where To Buy Trees Locally
- Top Garden Centers & Greenhouses In Des Moines [and surrounding areas]
- A Guide to Shooting Ranges Near Des Moines
Spring in Des Moines
- Spring in Des Moines: 10 Best Things to Do
- Spring Wildflowers: Spot These Spring Beauties On Your Next Hike
- Central Iowa Trout Fishing: Where to Fish For Trout Near Des Moines
- When To Start Seeds Indoors in Iowa
Fall in Des Moines
- 10+ Best Things to Do in the Fall in Des Moines
- The Best Fall Colors in Des Moines, Iowa
- A Guide to Apple Orchards Near Des Moines
- Find a Fun Des Moines Pumpkin Patch: A Guide to Area Pumpkin Patches
- The Best Fall Camping Near Des Moines, Iowa
Winter in Des Moines
- Things to Do In Des Moines: Winter Edition
- Christmas Tree Farms Near Des Moines: Find Your Perfect Tree Locally!
- Christmas Lights in Des Moines: Don’t Miss These Holiday Light Displays!
- Ice Skating in Des Moines: A Guide to Ice Skating Rinks and Lessons
- Brenton Skating Plaza: Best Outdoor Ice Skating in Des Moines
- Cross Country Ski in Des Moines: Best Places For Skiing, Ski Rentals, and More!
- Snowshoeing in Des Moines: Find the best trails, rent snowshoes, and more!
- The Best Sledding In Des Moines: Find Sledding Hills Near You
- Where to See Bald Eagles in Central Iowa
- 10 Fun Winter Weekend Getaways Near Des Moines
- Fun Things to Do Over Winter Break in Des Moines
- 10+ Fun Winter Date Ideas for the Des Moines Area
