Things To Do in Des Moines, IA
Des Moines Botanical Center
Calling all green thumbs to the Des Moines Botanical Center. Meander through the rows of colorful miniature rose bushes, orchids and delicate bonsai trees. Learn tips about how to make a garden grow, sprout your own fragrant herbs and start your very own terrarium.
Des Moines Playhouse
The show must go on at the Des Moines Playhouse, where you can see award-wining modern works, hilarious comedy, and outlandish musicals! You'll sing, laugh and enjoy great live theater that delights in offering plays made famous the world over on many a Broadway stage. You'll also find exceptional Children's Theatre productions.
Water Works Park
Nature's largest collection of flowering crab apple trees grow at Water Works Park located in Des Moines. The beautiful 1,500-acre park is skirted by the Raccoon River and besides apples, sports big outdoor activities like biking, jogging, and hiking and picnicking. Naturally, nature lovers love it here!
Oktoberfest
Raise a glass at Oktoberfest, the popular festival turns downtown Des Moines into the largest bar in the world. Festival goers drink lots and lots of ice cold German beer, eat German food and check out bier maidens and dance a lot of polka! Come celebrate a beery good time!