Tips for Traveling with Kids in Des Moines, Iowa, United States

All Topics about Des Moines All Cities in United States

1. Blank Park Zoo

Experience a variety of animals from around the world. Features interactive exhibits and educational programs for kids.

Animal Variety: Offers over 1,400 animals representing more than 300 species
Educational Programs: Provides guided tours and interactive exhibits to educate kids about wildlife
Interactive Exhibits: Allows children to participate in feeding and petting select animals

Explore over 250 interactive exhibits that spark curiosity about science and technology.

Interactive Exhibits: Provides hands-on activities to engage children in learning
Planetarium Shows: Offers daily planetarium shows, providing a unique way to learn about the universe
Special Events: Hosts special events throughout the year, such as science-themed parties and camps for kids

Discover lush gardens filled with exotic plants from around the world. Offers educational programs for kids.

Variety of Gardens: Features 14 unique gardens, including a Desert Garden and Water Garden
Educational Programs: Provides guided tours and educational programs for kids to learn about plants and conservation
Seasonal Events: Hosts seasonal events, such as the Butterflies & Blooms exhibit in spring

Engage children in hands-on learning through play. Features exhibits on art, science, and history.

Hands-On Learning: Provides interactive exhibits that encourage children to learn through play
Exhibit Variety: Offers a range of exhibits, including an art studio and a construction zone
Special Events: Hosts special events throughout the year, such as summer camps and themed party days

Experience thrilling roller coasters and family-friendly rides at this popular amusement park.

Thrill Rides: Offers several high-speed and upside-down roller coasters for the thrill-seekers
Family Rides: Features gentle rides that are suitable for young children and families
Live Entertainment: Provides live shows, such as musical performances and character meet-and-greets

Explore a historic Tudor Revival mansion and beautiful gardens. Offers guided tours for kids.

Historic Mansion: Provides a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy Salisbury family in the early 20th century
Guided Tours: Offers guided tours for kids, highlighting interesting facts about the house and its history
Gardens: Features beautiful gardens, including a sunken garden and rose garden

Explore contemporary art exhibits and take part in workshops for kids.

Contemporary Art: Showcases modern and contemporary art from around the world
Workshops for Kids: Provides workshops where children can create their own artwork
Temporary Exhibits: Hosts temporary exhibits featuring different artists and art movements

Experience live performances of music, theater, and dance. Offers children's shows during the day.

Live Performances: Offers a variety of live performances, including plays, concerts, and dance recitals
Children's Shows: Hosts matinee performances specifically designed for children
Historic Architecture: Features stunning Art Deco architecture, making it a unique venue to visit

Enjoy horse racing events and casino games. Features family-friendly dining options.

Horse Racing Events: Hosts live thoroughbred horse races and simulcast racing from tracks around the country
Casino Games: Offers a variety of casino games, including slots, table games, and poker
Family-Friendly Dining: Provides dining options that are suitable for children, such as buffets and fast food restaurants

Enjoy a day at the park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and a splash pad for kids.

Playgrounds: Offers several playgrounds catering to children of different ages
Picnic Areas: Provides shaded picnic areas for families to enjoy a meal outdoors
Splash Pad: Features a splash pad, perfect for cooling off on hot summer days

Let your kids (and dogs) run free at this large, fenced-in dog park.

Large Area: Provides a spacious area for dogs to run and play
Separate Areas: Features separate areas for large and small dogs, as well as an off-leash area
Amenities: Offers amenities such as water fountains, benches, and waste bag stations

Enjoy a stroll along the river with stunning views of downtown Des Moines.

Scenic Views: Provides picturesque views of the Des Moines River and downtown skyline
Walking Path: Offers a paved walking path suitable for strollers and wheelchairs
Picnic Spots: Features picnic areas along the river, perfect for a casual meal outdoors

Shop for fresh produce, homemade goods, and unique crafts at this vibrant market.

Fresh Produce: Offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats
Unique Crafts: Features local artisans selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and home goods
Food Stalls: Offers a variety of food stalls serving international cuisine

Engage children in hands-on learning through play at this interactive museum.

Interactive Exhibits: Provides a range of exhibits that encourage children to learn through play
Special Events: Hosts special events throughout the year, such as themed party days and summer camps
Workshops: Offers workshops where children can create their own artwork or crafts

Stay at this family-friendly resort near Adventureland Park and enjoy amenities like a water park.

Near Adventureland: Located conveniently close to Adventureland Park
Water Park: Offers a water park with slides, pools, and a lazy river
Family-Friendly Amenities: Provides family-friendly amenities such as restaurants, shops, and arcades