Des Moines Holidays

Things to do in Des Moines

Des Moines is an ideal destination for family outings and outdoor adventures, offering a variety of activities. Explore shopping centres, enjoy fairground shows, and discover entertainment destinations perfect for weekend getaways and day trips. Whether you're seeking leisurely tours or vibrant local experiences, Des Moines provides ample opportunities for enjoyment and relaxation.

Shopping

Southridge Mall offers a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. For local treasures, visit the Downtown Farmers' Market, bustling with city life. Bridgewood Plaza complements your shopping journey with its inviting atmosphere, perfect for finding unique gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Raccoon River Park offers a tranquil retreat with scenic walking trails and serene lake views, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. For a vibrant evening, Val Air Ballroom hosts lively concerts, while Hoyt Sherman Place enchants with its cultural performances, making it ideal for family and romantic outings.

Adventure

At Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park, leap into fun with thrilling trampoline activities and vibrant family vibes. Experience excitement at Air Lanes Bowling Center, where friendly competition awaits. Explore the scenic Greenbelt Trail for a refreshing hiking adventure amidst nature, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure.

Nightlife

Des Moines boasts a vibrant nightlife, with a lively atmosphere at venues like the trendy Wooly's, where live music fills the air. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the Gas Lamp, known for its welcoming pub feel and diverse entertainment options, perfect for a memorable evening out.

Find the best attractions in Des Moines

Des Moines is an ideal destination for family, outdoor, and business-themed holidays, offering a variety of attractions such as urban parks, event venues, and modern colleges. Visitors can enjoy a blend of outdoor activities and city experiences, exploring major tourist hotspots within the area. For a memorable visit, consider including top attractions and city highlights in your itinerary to fully appreciate what Des Moines has to offer.

• Iowa State Capitol Building: Explore the stunning architecture of this historic civic building, featuring a magnificent gold dome and intricate interiors. The Capitol offers a glimpse into Iowa's political history and showcases beautiful art and historical exhibits, all set against the backdrop of lush grounds.
• Casey's Center: Enjoy a lively atmosphere at this entertainment arena, perfect for family outings. With various events ranging from concerts to sports, Casey's Center is a hub of excitement, providing a great opportunity to experience local culture and entertainment.
• Iowa State Fairgrounds: Embrace the outdoors at this vibrant fairground, home to the famous Iowa State Fair. With its array of rides, games, and food stalls, it’s a delightful destination for families, offering a taste of Midwestern traditions and community spirit.

Best time to go to Des Moines

The best time to visit Des Moines can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Des Moines falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Des Moines falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	24.1°F (-4.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	40.5°F (4.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	29.3°F (-1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Des Moines

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• Consider traveling to Des Moines during the low season (November to January) for more affordable options.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.