Des Moines Vacations

Things to do in Des Moines

Shopping

Jordan Creek Town Center offers a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. For a taste of local culture, visit the Downtown Farmers' Market, bustling with city vibes. Bridgewood Plaza provides a variety of shops in a welcoming atmosphere perfect for families.

Recreation

Experience live music at Val Air Ballroom, where vibrant energy fills the air, perfect for dance and enjoyment. At Hoyt Sherman Place, immerse yourself in a cultural journey with captivating performances in a romantic theater setting. For sports enthusiasts, Principal Park offers exhilarating baseball games in an electric atmosphere.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of jumping at Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park, where gravity-defying fun awaits you. Challenge friends at Air Lanes Bowling Center for a competitive twist on a classic game. For a scenic adventure, hike the Greenbelt Trail and immerse yourself in Iowa's beautiful outdoors.

Nightlife

In Des Moines, explore the lively nightlife around the East Village and Court Avenue districts, where you’ll find a mix of trendy bars, breweries, and live music venues. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with dance clubs and cozy lounges that cater to all tastes and preferences.

Find the best attractions in Des Moines

Des Moines offers a perfect blend of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and business opportunities. Visitors can explore urban parks, attend events at conference venues, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of modern colleges and universities. With diverse attractions catering to outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, Des Moines promises a memorable city experience for every traveler.

• Iowa State Fairgrounds: Experience the heart of Iowa's culture at this iconic fairground, known for its lively atmosphere and family-friendly events. Enjoy outdoor activities, food vendors, and games that showcase local traditions, especially during the annual Iowa State Fair.
• Iowa State Capitol Building: This stunning historic building boasts a magnificent gold dome and intricate architecture. Explore its rich history and vibrant culture through guided tours, which provide insights into Iowa's government and heritage.
• Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden: A serene oasis featuring diverse plant collections and beautifully landscaped gardens. Ideal for families and couples, this romantic spot offers tranquility and a chance to connect with nature.

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

• Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Des Moines.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically November to January) for more affordable package holidays to Des Moines.
• 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.