Rotary Riverwalk Park is a small play structure in Downtown Des Moines. But don’t let its size fool you! This unique little playground is fun for kids and adults alike, and there are many things to do and see nearby.
Rotary Riverwalk Park
Rotary Riverwalk Park is a small, one-of-a-kind play structure in downtown Des Moines. It looks like a large fishing pole and bobber that lights up at night! It has a few swings, and kids love climbing on the giant bobber.
Did we mention the views from the park are spectacular? It’s a great place to relax and stay awhile. Make the play area just one of your fun stops along the Principal Riverwalk.
Rotary Riverwalk Park is next to the Women of Achievement Bridge and the Lauridsen Skatepark. But there’s so much more to do…
Things to do nearby
Principal Riverwalk. The park is right on the Principal Riverwalk, on the west end of the Women of Achievement Bridge. It’s a 1-mile loop trail near the East Village, with great views of the river and many great places to explore nearby. For more, see our article on the Principal Riverwalk.
Lauridsen Skate Park. This state-of-the-art skatepark is north of the park. With 88,000(!) square feet of skateable space, it’s the largest open skatepark in the nation. There’s something for everyone here. It’s open to the public from 6:00 am to 10:30 pm when there’s not an event.
Des Moines Botanical Garden. The Botanical Garden is only a half-mile walk from the park! It’s a beautiful place to spend an hour or two touring the indoor and outdoor gardens. Admission fees apply to non-members.
Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens. The Asian Gardens are on the river’s east side and are another great place to explore along the riverwalk. Beautiful landscaping, sculptures, and unique gardens surround the Asian pavilion. (It’s free and open to the public.)
Brenton Skating Plaza. If you’re visiting during the colder months, you could stop by Brenton to ice skate! It’s the best outdoor ice skating rink in the area, with the city skyline as a backdrop. During the summer, the plaza sometimes hosts concerts and other events.
Visit Rotary Riverwalk Park today!
Rotary Riverwalk Park is at 821 W River Dr, Des Moines, IA 50309.
Where to park
There’s no dedicated parking lot for the park. But there are a few paid and free parking options nearby. Below are some options.
- West River Drive street parking
- Robert D. Ray Drive street parking
- Walnut Street bridge street parking
- Court Avenue bridge street parking
- City parking ramps
