Things to do in Des Moines

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Des Moines travel guide

Gorgeous spot. First place we visited right off the plane. #LIFEATEXPEDIA #AQUATROVE

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What to do in Des Moines

Popular places to visit

Seattle Cruise Ship Terminal 91

Explore the waterfront in Seattle with a trip to Seattle Cruise Ship Terminal 91. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene and shops in this walkable area.

Seattle Waterfront

This three-kilometre waterfront stretch is one of Seattle’s foremost leisure and entertainment destinations. Soak up some of the atmosphere as you wander round.

Puget Sound which includes modern architecture

Space Needle

A dramatic sculpture first erected for the 1962 World’s Fair, now an iconic fixture of the modern day Seattle skyline.

Pike Place Market

America’s oldest farmers’ market and a food lover’s paradise offering a cornucopia of stalls and shops right here in Seattle.

Seattle Center

A product of the 1962 World Fair, this cultural precinct is where sports, theater, film and fine dining come together in Seattle.

Seattle Stadiums Beyond Waterfront Architecture

T-Mobile Park

Catch an event at T-Mobile Park during your trip to Seattle. Experience the great live music and acclaimed theatre scene in this vibrant area.

University of Washington

Explore the campus of University of Washington during your travels in Seattle. Experience the entertainment choices and acclaimed theatre scene in this vibrant area.

Lumen Field

Catch an event at Lumen Field during your trip to Seattle. Experience the acclaimed theatre scene and entertainment choices in this vibrant area.

Seattle City Skyline View From Kerry Park

Climate Pledge Arena

Catch an event at Climate Pledge Arena during your trip to Seattle. Discover the entertainment choices and shops in this vibrant area.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Seattle, Washington Skyline and Downtown Core

SeaTac

Seattle

Normandy Park

Frequently asked questions

Is Des Moines worth visiting?

Whether you're here to discover the local charm and cultural hotspots or sample unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there's no shortage of things to do in Des Moines.

How do I spend a day in Des Moines?

Start your adventures with a visit to Des Moines Beach. Then, explore different areas of Des Moines for tasty eats and some souvenir shopping.

What is the top tourist attraction in Des Moines?

Des Moines Beach is rated the top tourist attraction near Des Moines, so don't leave without checking it out.

Is three days enough to stay in Des Moines?

You'll have enough time to tick off Des Moines Beach, Angle Lake Park and other key attractions in the area when you book a three-day break in Des Moines.

Is Des Moines a walkable neighbourhood?

With the centre of Des Moines as your starting off point, several key sights like Des Moines Beach are within walking distance. If you want to stroll some more, the neighbourhood of Normandy Park is about 3 kilometres away.

What are some activities to do in Des Moines with kids?

Planning what to do in Des Moines with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're getting away with little ones or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly activities to keep them happy here.

What to do in Des Moines for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or adventure seeker, there are loads of things to do in Des Moines for adults.

Are there free things to do in Des Moines?

You won't have to hunt high and low for free things to do in Des Moines. Simply ask a local tour guide and they'll point you toward attractions you can visit for nothing. A good free option for your trip itinerary is Des Moines Beach.