Just because winter weather is here doesn’t mean you can’t get out and have fun! On the contrary, winter in Des Moines is an excellent time to do things you can’t (or won’t) do at any other time of the year.
From ice skating and cross-country skiing to viewing Bald Eagles, visiting museums, or taking a staycation, there are many possibilities during the winter!
Read our articles below to find all kinds of excellent activities in and around Des Moines!

Des Moines area winter articles you don’t want to miss
Things to Do
• Things to Do In Des Moines: Winter Edition
• Fun Things to Do Over Winter Break in Des Moines
• 10+ Fun Winter Date Ideas for the Des Moines Area
Holidays
• Christmas Tree Farms Near Des Moines: Find Your Perfect Tree Locally
• Christmas Lights in Des Moines: Don’t Miss These Holiday Light Displays
Winter Getaways
• Midwest Winter Getaways: Top Winter Road Trips
• 5 of the Best Iowa Winter Getaways & Vacation Ideas
• 10 Fun Winter Weekend Getaways Near Des Moines
• Best Things To Do in Pella: A Touch of Holland Here in Iowa
Activities
• Ice Skating in Des Moines: Ice Skating Rinks and Lessons
• Brenton Skating Plaza: Best Outdoor Ice Skating in Des Moines
• The Best Sledding In Des Moines: Find Sledding Hills Near You
• Snowshoeing in Des Moines: Find the best trails, rent snowshoes
• Cross Country Ski in Des Moines: Best Places For Skiing, Ski Rentals
• Where to See Bald Eagles in Central Iowa
• Ice Fishing in Iowa: Safety, Gear, & Top Ice Fishing Lakes
• Central Iowa Trout Fishing: Fish For Trout Near Des Moines
• Cool Places For Snow Tubing, Snowboarding, and Skiing in Iowa
• Iowa Winter Birds: What to look for, where to look, & more!
• Animal Tracks in Snow: Identifying Common Animal Tracks
Places to visit
• Des Moines Botanical Garden: Explore Nature Any Time of Year
• Blank Park Zoo: A Fun Stop in Des Moines
• A Guide to Jester Park in Central Iowa
• Principal Riverwalk: A Remarkable Trail in Downtown Des Moines
More winter fun
• Fun Indoor Winter Activities For Everyone That You Can Do Today
• Try a Fun Winter Scavenger Hunt to Beat Cabin Fever! [+ free printables]
• Woodworking for Wildlife: Start a Fun, Nature-Friendly Project Today