Top 10 Things To Do in Des Moines
1. Blank Park Zoo
Blank Park Zoo is a fun place to go. You can see rhinos, feed giraffes, admire the baby animals and so much more! Within the 30 acres, you can find an indoor rainforest, an Australian adventure and so much more!
2. Pappajohn Sculpture Garden
Pappajohn Sculpture Garden is 4.4 acres and has artwork from 22 of the world’s best artists. It is a great entryway to downtown Des Moines and a definite stop.
3. Adventure Hunt Des Moines
A fun and adventurous modern-day treasure hunt you can enter as many times as you want! You will be running the same route as our massive Treasure Hunt which will have you exploring Des Moines and the surrounding areas, including spots you likely haven't explored before! It only costs $10 and every time you finish, you will get $5 to the Adventure Hunt Store and be entered to win a FREE TRIP TO PANAMA! You can enter on your own, with a date or with a group of friends. No matter how many people you are with, you will have a blast!
4. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has lots of plants from around the world. It covers 14 acres and is right along the Des Moines River making the setting just beautiful.
5. Gray’s Lake Park
Gray’s Lake Park is an absolutely ideal spot to walk or jog. You can admire the views as you walk around the lake. It is never too crowded which makes it perfect!
6. Downtown Farmers’ Market
The Downtown Farmers’ Market has so many different booths with so many different varieties! You can find food and all sorts of different kinds of gifts!
7. The State Capitol
The State Capitol is absolutely beautiful to see. It isn’t designed like a lot of the capitols around the country which makes it unique and fun to see.
8. Better Homes and Gardens Test Gardens
Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, the Better Homes and Gardens Test Gardens are beautiful. There are mini-backyards filled with beautiful plants and surrounded by gates and fences. Even if you only have a little bit of time, this is something that is fun to walk through!
9. Terrace Hill
Terrace Hill is the governor’s mansion. What makes it unique is it is one of the nation’s most accessible governor’s mansions. You also can take tours of certain parts making you feel even closer!
10. East Village
East Village is a hip neighborhood with a fun vibe. You can dine at one of the many restaurants here while just enjoying it all!
