Welcome to Des Moines Parent! We are your premier resource for all things to do in Des Moines and throughout the Midwest for parents and families. Our goal is to make it easy for you to connect with resources, meet other parents in our community, and support local.
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SUMMER! Summer in Des Moines, Iowa is full of fun activities and events. We have gathered all the fun in one place so you can plan your summer weeks. Bookmark this page as your #1 resource to guide you through summer in Des Moines and keep coming back as we continue to add more guides and resources.
Summer is just around the corner, and many families are busy planning for an unforgettable summer in the Des Moines metro. The 2026 Summer Camp Directory is full of fun-packed day camps in the Des Moines area. This directory will help guide you to plan the ultimate camp experience for your child. Whether your children are looking for a summer day camp, outdoor, hands-on experiences, outdoor explorations, science experiments, learning new skills, fun games, overnight camp, or a different theme each wee,k we have it for you in this guide!
Des Moines is a city full of unique experiences and places to explore. Luckily, it does not need to cost a ton to explore everything Des Moines has to offer. Some of the best things are free! Read on to discover all the FREE things to do in Des Moines, Iowa.
Explore the Outdoors!
Interested in details for a specific park?
We have you covered! We have detailed reviews for many parks across the Des Moines metro. Know all the details before you go!
Things to do in Des Moines
Nature Centers in the Midwest
Sharing is caring! Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Save Email Nature Centers in the Midwest Iowa has some amazing nature centers, from Jester Park Nature Center to Grimes Farm and Conservation Center….
Des Moines Indoor Play for Kids!
Des Moines Indoor Play for Kids! A giant list of Des Moines indoor play for kids to run, play, and burn off energy during the winter months. We have gathered…
Things to Do at Gray’s Lake Park in Des Moines
With beautiful views of the city skyline, you can enjoy walking, biking, boating and much more at Gray’s Lake Park in Des Moines.
Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend
Fun Things To Do in Des Moines This Weekend: Friday, June 12th 2026 – Sunday, June 15th 2026 Every weekend there are amazing Fun Things to do in Des Moines, Iowa!…
Travel
We love the 515 but there are many great places to travel to in Iowa and throughout the Midwest. Take a look at some of our places to visit and plan your next family adventure! For all the travel reviews, check here.
Jefferson, Iowa: A Family-Friendly Day Trip
Looking for a fun family road trip from Des Moines? Pack up the car and head west to Jefferson, Iowa, a charming small town located about an hour northwest of…
Nature Centers in the Midwest
Nature Centers in the Midwest Iowa has some amazing nature centers, from Jester Park Nature Center to Grimes Farm and Conservation Center. Many nature centers include interactive displays, special events,…
Family Day Trip to Middlebrook Agrihood
Plan the Perfect Family Day Trip to Middlebrook Agrihood in Cumming, Iowa Looking for a family-friendly day trip just minutes from Des Moines? Head south to Middlebrook Agrihood in Cumming,…
Road Trip: Explore the History and Outdoors in Northeast Kansas
Road Trip: Explore the History and Outdoors in Northeast Kansas Road trip! One of my favorite things about living in Des Moines, Iowa is the ease of traveling to other…