Skip to Content (Press Enter) Skip to Footer (Press Enter)
Des Moines Events
July 26, 2021

7 Ways to Have Fun in Des Moines

Des Moines Activities

There is no shortage of fun things to do in Des Moines. From day trips to the zoo, to weekly farmers markets, find the event that everyone can enjoy. Say goodbye to boredom and make the most of what central Iowa has to offer with these seven Des Moines events!

1. The Farmers Market

Farmers market

Find the fresh food you love when you stop by the Downtown Farmers’ Market in Des Moines. The market is held every Saturday morning from May-October and hosts nearly 300 vendors and 20,000 visitors every weekend. If you want something a little smaller, many other central Iowa communities also host farmers’ markets as well! Find the freshest produce and support your local economy all at the same time when you shop the farmers market.

Learn more about the Des Moines Downtown Farmers' Market

2. Central Iowa Bike Trails

Street sign

Biking in Iowa is synonymous with RAGBRAI, but you don’t have to risk the saddle sores and week of PTO to get in a solid ride. Central Iowa has more than 670 miles of multi-use trails that are perfect for an afternoon of pedaling. The Des Moines Bicycle Collective has put together a list of central Iowa trails, with maps and other helpful information.
 

3. Des Moines Art Center

The Des Moines Art Center is an art museum that features a variety of paintings, sculptures, and modern art. Along with their permanent collections, the art museum also features revolving artwork, so you’re guaranteed to find something new each time you go. Plus, it has FREE ADMISSION, making it the perfect destination for a budget-friendly day out!

But wait! Only 2.5 miles down Grand Avenue from the Art Center is Des Moines’ very own Sculpture Park. The Pappajohns Sculpture Park is an iconic, four-acre park that features 28 pieces of sculptured artwork and is a must-see if traveling to Des Moines.

Learn more about the Des Moines Art Center!

4. Iowa Cubs

Baseball field

One of the most beloved Des Moines events is a trip to Principal Park to watch the Iowa Cubs play. The stadium stands at the confluence of the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers along the southern edge of downtown. They draw more than 500,000 fans each season and are regularly among the top in attendance for the Pacific Coast League. With affordable tickets, firework Friday nights, and a chance to see the stars of tomorrow, a trip to the ballpark has never been more fun.

Learn more about the ICubs!

5. Blank Park Zoo

Giraffe at the zoo

This is a must-have for any Des Moines events day trip. The Blank Park Zoo is a great attraction for kiddos and adults alike. Along with seeing the animals, there’s also plenty of other attractions like face painting and a petting zoo. They even have Zoo Brew on Wednesday nights for adults to enjoy the zoo kid-free.

Learn more about the Blank Park Zoo!

6. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Plants

Calling all plant lovers! The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden offers a perfect place to take in the beauty of nature. It features both indoor and outdoor exhibits with a variety of plant and flower collections from all over the globe. Explore the educational aspect of the gardens with its array of plants, while immersing yourself in a new cultural experience!

Learn more about the Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens!

7. Living History Farms

The 500-acre museum located just out of Des Moines is a chance to escape the 21st century! The museum is an educational trip back in time to see what Iowa was like 300 years ago. It showcases what people, places, and life looked like when Iowa was primarily farm ground. Plus, it provides fun and engaging activities for all ages!

Learn more about Living History Farms!

Events at Homemakers!

Homemakers storefront

Iowa State Fair 2021

Heading to the Iowa State Fair this year? Homemakers is proud to announce its partnership with the Iowa State Fair as a Grand Champion Sponsor. Make sure to check out the Homemakers booth located Varied Industries Building, booth #465. We’ve got the best selection of products all at wallet-friendly prices! Stop by between Aug. 12-22 to get your pick of the crop before they’re gone!

Homemakers Kids’ Carnival

The Homemakers kids’ carnival is Aug. 28 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For this annual family-friendly event, we transform our southeast parking lot into a wonderland of fun games, awesome prizes, inflatable rides, a mini train ride, a balloon artist, food, and beverages. And yes, it’s all free!

Discover More About Homemakers Events!

Looking for some fun activities in Des Moines to keep you busy? Try one of our seven ideas to help liven up your weekend. Plus, stop by Homemakers to check out what events we’re holding all summer long!

Subscribe

Enter your email address to subscribe to the official Homemakers blog and be the first to know about new posts by email.

Thank you for signing up for our mailing list! Check your inbox for an email confirmation.

Connect with us for all the latest updates!

Related Articles

 

October 24, 2024

Shopping With Us This Holiday Season

DIY + How-To

Everything You Need to Know For Shopping With Us This Holiday Season

October 24, 2024
Stay in the know this holiday season with a complete list of everything you need to know about our deals, hours, financing, and more!
Read more about "Everything You Need to Know For Shopping With Us This Holiday Season"
October 23, 2023
DIY + How-To

Creative Ways to Hide Cords on a Wall Mounted TV

October 23, 2023
We all want our TV setup to look good, but all those cords and cables can get in the way. These ideas will help you hide those pesky wires!
Read more about "Creative Ways to Hide Cords on a Wall Mounted TV"
September 08, 2023
DIY + How-To

Storing Your Summer Furniture for Winter

September 08, 2023
As the seasons shift and nature begins its annual transformation, it's time to turn our attention to the changing needs of our outdoor spaces. In this concise guide, we'll provide you with advice on preparing your outdoor furniture for winter.
Read more about "Storing Your Summer Furniture for Winter"