40+ Things to Do Outdoors in Greater Des Moines

Whether you’re hiking, hitting a farmers’ market or sipping a local brew on a sunny patio, Greater Des Moines (DSM) knows how to spring into action when the weather warms up.

Here are more than 40 ways to make the most of spring and summer outside in DSM — from natural gems and local festivals to fresh-air dining and kid-friendly adventures. There are so many choices, we couldn’t possibly list them all. So, we’ll start with just a few …

Greater Des Moines’ Natural Wonders, Plus DSM Trails Worth the Drive

 

1. Brown’s Woods – One of the largest urban forests in Iowa. Explore quiet trails and, while you’re nearby, check out the new Athene Pedestrian Bridge (newly opened in Nov. 2024) linking Walnut Woods State Park to Raccoon River Park.

2. High Trestle Trail: A bucket-list bike ride or evening walk. The bridge lighting at night? Worth every step.

3. Pammel Park: One of Iowa’s original state parks, this 350-acre gem in Winterset is known for its wooded trails and signature limestone ridge, the “Backbone.” .

4. Jester Park: A go-to for hiking, kayaking and watching bison roam. The nature playscape is perfect for kids, and the Elk & Bison Enclosure always delivers.

5. Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge: On the eastern side of the region, this prairie preserve is home to bison, elk, wildflowers and miles of scenic hiking.

6. White Rock Conservancy: Less than 2 hours from the metro area and packed with 40+ miles of trails, river access and dark sky stargazing.

7. Cordova Park & Observation Tower: Climb 170 steps to the top of this 100-foot tower near Lake Red Rock in Marion County for panoramic views. (Pictured below.)

8. Volksweg Trail: While in Marion County, challenge yourself to the 17-mile Volksweg Trail, which starts in Pella.

 

Greater Des Moines Outdoor Events That Are a Must!

 

9. Wild Lights Festival at Blank Park Zoo (April 5 – May 25, 2025): Giant illuminated animal sculptures transform the zoo into a glowing wonderland.

10. Drake Relays (April 23-26, 2025): Even if you’re not competing, seeing the incredible track athletes, the street painting tradition and Downtown buzz bring peak spring energy to DSM.

11. Earth Day at the Brenton Arboretum (April 27, 2025): Take the kids, wander through the arboretum and enjoy Earth Day activities.

12. Pella Tulip Festival (May 1-3, 2025): An annual celebration of Dutch heritage featuring traditional dancing, festive parades, fresh poffertjes and tulips as far as the eye can see.

13. Springtime on the Farm at Center Grove Orchard (May 2-26, 2025): Enjoy a day on the farm with baby animals, strawberry picking and seasonal treats.

14. Cinco de Mayo Festival in Historic Valley Junction (May 3, 2025): Celebrating Mexican heritage with live music and dancing, food trucks, art and cultural pride on full display.

15. Downtown Des Moines’ Farmers’ Market (Saturdays, May 3, 2025 – Oct. 25, 2025): Live music, fresh produce, local goods and serious community vibes. Don’t miss other standout markets in Valley Junction, Ankeny, Waukee and Indianola for even more local flavor.

16. Greenbelt Music Festival (May 16-17, 2025): Music + trails + beer garden = summer kickoff done right in Clive.

17. CelebrAsian (May 24-25, 2025): Iowa’s largest Asian American cultural event, showcasing authentic food and family activities at Western Gateway Park.

18. Memorial Day Celebration at the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum (May 26, 2025): A powerful and meaningful way to start summer, honoring veterans and paying tribute to Iowa’s servicemembers past and present. Includes both indoor displays and outdoor memorials.

19. Valley Junction Arts Festival (May 18, 2025): A top-tier art event with live music, local makers and plenty for families to enjoy.

20. Des Moines Art Festival® (June 27-29): Love the arts festival vibe? There’s more! Mark your calendar for the Des Moines Art Festival® coming up at the end of June in Downtown DSM.

21. World Food & Music Festival (Dates Coming Soon): Cap off your summer with this multi-day celebration of culture and food from around the world, all in Downtown DSM.

Des Moines Patios that Feel Like a Mini Vacation

 

22. Paws & Pints: Yes, your dog deserves a social life too. This dog park–meets–bar concept has off-leash play areas, craft beer, and plenty of space for both pups and people to hang. (Pictured above.)

23. The Beerhouse: Relaxed spot in Urbandale with good brews and a roomy patio.

24. Burger Shed: A laid-back spot with a spacious patio and comfort food favorites, perfect for a casual outdoor hang in Altoona.

25. The Chicken: A no-frills, roadhouse-style hangout in Orilla serving up crispy fried chicken, cold drinks and a patio made for sunny afternoons.

26. The Cork 50131: Johnston’s wine and bourbon bar with a relaxed outdoor setup.

27. Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co.: One of the OG spots in the Historic Court District. Their patio is perfect for people-watching while sipping house-brewed beer and catching a game.

28. Either/Or: Low-key and trendy. Great for a date night or friends hangout.

29. Firetrucker Brewery: Local beer, firehouse theme and live music outside in the warmer months.

30. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse: An upscale spot with a refined patio perfect for sipping wine, celebrating something big, or just treating yourself to a top-tier meal outdoors.

31. The Hall DSM: Food Hall vibes with a massive patio and yard games.

32. Mullets: A casual DSM classic with skyline views, riverfront access and a two-level patio that feels like a party any day of the week. Bonus points for the breakfast menu that runs all day.

33. Truman’s KC Pizza Tavern: Kansas City-themed sports bar energy meets creative specialty pizza, served up on a dog-friendly patio with a laid-back neighborhood vibe just southeast of downtown.

34. Smash Park: Play pickleball, grab a drink, and hang out all afternoon. (Pictured below.)

Family-Friendly Outdoor Attractions in Des Moines

Photo courtesy of Lauridsen Skatepark.

 

35. Skate Parks – Grab your board or scooter. Hit up Lauridsen Skate Park: the largest in the U.S. (pictured above), or West Des Moines, Urbandale, Ankeny, Indianola and Altoona.

36. Berry Picking: Strawberries start in May! Try places like Berry Patch Farm, Upstream Gardens or Iowa Orchard.

37. Blank Park Zoo: Classic family outing, and the zoo comes alive in spring.

38. Heritage Carousel: A nostalgic ride for kids in Union Park. Opens for the season May 24, 2025.

39. Newton Arboretum and Gardens: Connect with nature and meander 3000 feet of paved trails. (Pictured at the top of the page. Photo courtesy of Newton Arboretum.)

40. Living History Farms: History comes to life across 500 acres of working farmland and historical buildings.

41. Pappajohn Sculpture Park: Walk through world-class art with downtown Des Moines as your backdrop.

42. Prairie Meadows Racetrack: Live horse racing returns May 9, 2025, and it’s free to watch.

43. World Food Prize Hall of Laureates Gardens: Peaceful, beautifully maintained and right by the river walk.

44. Bridges of Madison County: Take a scenic drive and walk across iconic covered bridges.

45. Winterset City Park and Clark Tower: Speaking of Madison County, while you’re there stop by this Winterset gem for panoramic views, historic stone bridges and perfect picnic spots. Be sure to climb to the top of Clark Tower for amazing views. (Pictured below.)

Ready to Go?

From tulips to trails, patio drinks to prairie hikes, spring and summer in Greater Des Moines are packed with ways to soak up the sunshine. So, get outside and see just how much DSM has going on.