Kid-Friendly Valentine’s Day Ideas in Downtown Des Moines

Valentine’s Day is all about making memories with loved ones, and these kid-friendly ideas taking place in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) are designed to do just that! Here’s a look at four ways you can celebrate V-Day with your family — right in the heart of the city.

4 Family-Friendly Valentine’s Day Ideas

1) Treat your sweet one to a kid-friendly lunch or dinner in Downtown DSM.

There’s just something about Valentine’s Day that goes hand-in-hand with Italian food! Spaghetti Works is a tried-and-true Downtown DSM staple for family eating, with its red checkered tablecloths, all-you-care-to-eat pasta bowls and garlic bread, too! Dress in your best and try Centro or Lucca for a more upscale pasta dinner vibe. Basil Prosperi is a great spot for a weekday Italian lunch or pizza by-the-slice. Your tummies will be full, and your hearts fuller!

2) Don’t miss these Downtown DSM Valentine’s Day events for kids and families!

Central Library will hold an Affirmation Party on Tuesday, Feb. 14, including music, snacks and a V-Day craft meant for preschool up to school-aged kids.

Brenton Skating Plaza is hosting a special skating event on Valentine’s Day (and on the day after, too!) including buy one, get one admission and skate rental. Each skater will also receive a flower and a cookie!

The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has several events coming up, perfectly themed for your family-friendly Valentine’s Day:

• Tuesday, Feb. 7: Chocolate Chat (Family-Friendly)
• Thursday, Feb. 9: Valentine Card Class (Ideal for Teens + Adults)
• Saturday, Feb. 11 – Sunday, Feb. 12: Bouquet Bar (All Ages)
• Tuesday, Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day Dome After Dark (All Ages)

3) Take on an art class with your sweetheart in Downtown DSM.

Kids ages 13 and up will love getting to create their own hand-painted masterpiece at Bottle and Bottega! Several date options and Valentine’s Day themed designs are available to choose from and make for a great outing for older kiddos and their parents. Why not bring a friend or two, as well?

Additionally, on Saturday, Feb. 11 Mainframe Studios’ art educator, Jess Quinn, will host two class sessions where kids ages 10 and up along with an adult can make an art college depicting two lovebirds (a great gift for a sibling, parent, grandparent or friend!).

4) Pick up something sweet at a Downtown DSM bakery.

Browse this list of places in Downtown DSM for sweets and treats to shop local for your V-Day desserts! You’ll find ample seasonal flavors like chocolate-covered strawberry and red velvet, and as many heart-shaped cakes, cookies and pastries your heart could desire. A simple sweet treat for your little one is sure to get a big smile and a few Xs and Os!

Find additional Downtown DSM restaurant, bakery and coffee shop options, as well as tips on Downtown DSM parking and navigation. Plus, follow @downtownDSMUSA on Instagram for more epic, things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around Downtown.