Adventure Travel Destinations in Des Moines, Iowa, United States
1. Des Moines River Trail
A scenic 51-mile trail system following the Des Moines River, ideal for biking, walking, and jogging.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the river, parks, and urban landscapes
- Accessibility: Accessible from various points in Des Moines, making it easy to explore
- Recreational Opportunities: Provides opportunities for bird-watching, fishing, and picnicking
2. Raccoon River Valley Trail
A 103-mile trail system passing through rural landscapes, small towns, and urban areas.
- Long Distance Trails: Allows for extended trips, camping, and day trips
- Diverse Scenery: Offers a mix of forests, farms, cities, and wildlife
- Historic Sites: Passes by several historic sites along the way
3. Prairie City Concrete Park
An open-air museum showcasing antique tractors and farm equipment.
- Historical Insight: Provides a unique look into Iowa's agricultural history
- Interactive Experience: Offers hands-on activities, such as operating antique machinery
- Family Friendly: Ideal for families with children who enjoy learning about history
4. Saylorville Lake
A large lake offering boating, fishing, and camping opportunities.
- Water Activities: Ideal for water sports enthusiasts such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing
- Nature Watching: Offers opportunities to observe wildlife, birds, and plants
- Camping Sites: Features multiple campgrounds for overnight stays
5. Stratford Covered Bridge
A historic covered bridge dating back to 1892, located in the heart of Stratford.
- Historic Landmark: Offers a glimpse into the past with its timber construction and rustic charm
- Photography Opportunities: Provides picturesque settings for photography enthusiasts
- Scenic Drive: Located along a scenic drive, making it an enjoyable stop during a road trip
6. Paw Paw Park
An urban park with hiking trails, a dog park, and picnic areas.
- Urban Oasis: Provides an escape from the city within the city
- Dog-Friendly Area: Features a dedicated dog park for furry friends
- Variety of Activities: Offers hiking, picnicking, and sports facilities
7. High Trestle Trail Bridge
A suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Boone River Valley.
- Stunning Views: Provides breathtaking panoramic vistas of the river valley
- Architectural Marvel: Showcases impressive architecture with its steel structures and LED lighting
- Hiking Trails: Connects to trail systems for extended exploration
8. Madhouse Family Fun Center
An indoor/outdoor entertainment complex with go-karts, mini golf, and arcade games.
- Indoor and Outdoor Activities: Offers a mix of outdoor and indoor activities for year-round fun
- Family Entertainment: Ideal for families looking for a day of fun together
- Group Events: Accommodates group events and birthday parties
9. Iowa Arboretum
A 300-acre park with over 2,500 species of trees and plants.
- Botanical Diversity: Showcases a wide variety of trees and plants from around the world
- Nature Education: Offers educational programs and guided tours to learn about plant life
- Hiking Trails: Features hiking trails for exploring the park's flora
10. Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
A protected area providing habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.
- Wildlife Observation: Offers opportunities to observe a diverse range of wildlife
- Nature Photography: Provides excellent settings for nature photography enthusiasts
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and guided tours to learn about local ecosystems
11. ADM Carousel Museum
A museum dedicated to antique carousels with interactive exhibits.
- Historical Preservation: Preserves and showcases the history of antique carousels
- Interactive Experience: Offers hands-on experiences, such as riding some of the exhibits
- Family Fun: Ideal for families looking for a fun and educational experience
12. Sheridan Wildlife Area
A wildlife management area featuring wetlands, prairies, and forest habitats.
- Nature Observation: Offers opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife species
- Hiking Trails: Features hiking trails for exploring the area's diverse habitats
- Photography Opportunities: Provides excellent settings for wildlife and landscape photography
13. Jester Park Equestrian Area
A park dedicated to horseback riding with trails and campsites.
- Equestrian Activities: Ideal for equestrians looking for a trail riding experience
- Camping Sites: Features campsites for overnight stays with horse accommodations
- Nature Watching: Offers opportunities to observe wildlife, birds, and plants
14. Lake Ahquabi State Park
A state park with a lake offering boating, fishing, and camping opportunities.
- Water Activities: Ideal for water sports enthusiasts such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing
- Nature Watching: Offers opportunities to observe wildlife, birds, and plants
- Camping Sites: Features multiple campgrounds for overnight stays
15. Pioneer Park
An urban park with hiking trails, a dog park, and picnic areas.
- Urban Oasis: Provides an escape from the city within the city
- Dog-Friendly Area: Features a dedicated dog park for furry friends
- Variety of Activities: Offers hiking, picnicking, and sports facilities