Take a Day Trip to Johnston, Iowa in DSM USA This Fall
When you live in Greater Des Moines (DSM), you’ll never need to look far for things to do and places to stay. In this new “DSM Day Trip” series, we’re highlighting different cities and counties around the region so you can see just what each of these different locations has to offer. In this post, check out Johnston, Iowa. From must-attend events to shopping, dining and hotels, Johnston is the perfect place to spend a day.
Fall Things to Do in Johnston, Iowa
Must-Attend Johnston Events
NAMIWalks Iowa
This weekend, NAMI Iowa will hold the 2024 NAMIWalks Iowa event at Terra Park, 6400 Pioneer Parkway on Saturday, Sept. 28 at 10 a.m. Registration and walker check-in begins at 8:30 a.m., and vendors will open at the same time.
Iowa Gold Star Military Museum Drop-In Guided Tours
New at the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum at 7105 NW 70th Ave. are Saturday Drop-In Guided Tours at 11:30 a.m. As part of the new offering, the museum will have VIP guest tour guides. This is a free event, and the first one takes place Saturday, Sept. 28.
Yoga by the Lake
Head to Terra Lake Amphitheater at 6300 Pioneer Parkway to enjoy Fall Yoga by the Lake on the following Saturday mornings:
This outdoor recreational event is free and for all ages. Bring your own mat and water bottle!
Johnston Farmers’ Market
One last Johnston Farmers’ Market event will be held this season on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2024 at Johnston Town Center, 6250 Merle Hay Road. The event brings the community together from 4 – 7 p.m. to enjoy live music and local food. This event will feature live music by Nate Carter, AJs Catering and more.
Art in the Barn
Enjoy art and live entertainment at Art in the Barn (pictured above) on Friday, Oct. 18, 2024 from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Simpson Barn. All proceeds benefit Johnston Public Library. This is the 12th annual event and will include appetizers, boutique beer and more with the purchase of a $25 ticket.
Trick-Or-Treat with First Responders
The Johnston Police and Fire Departments will hand out treats on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024 from 5:30 – 7 p.m. at Fire Station 38, 10225 NW 62nd Ave. in Johnston for Trick-Or-Treat with First Responders. Children can dress up and get to know police officers and firefighters.
Beggars’ Night
Dress up and trick-or-treat in Johnston for Beggars’ Night on Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024 from 6 – 8 p.m. If you’re welcoming trick-or-treaters, don’t forget to turn your front porch light on to show they are welcome.
Shopping Districts and Restaurants in West Des Moines
The Johnston Town Center is home to Backpocket & Pixel, a taproom offering Duckpin bowling, a retro arcade and an outdoor patio. If you’re up early, stop in at Blue Bean Coffee Shop for coffee and toast flights, or check out The Cork 50131 if you’re out late — they’ve got reds, whites, rose, flights and more.
Also in Johnston is Merle Hay Mall, a shopping and entertainment destination featuring Flix Brewhouse, an eight-screen movie theater and microbrewery, Dink’s Pickleball and more. Shopping and dining options include Applebee’s, Bath & Body Works, Old Navy, Ross, Starbucks and Target.
If you like to shop local, head to boutiques like Purple Poppy or MoMere (this time of year MoMere has tons of fall décor and a spooktacular Halloween collection!), or grab a sweet treat at Van Dee’s or a handcrafted dish at Roots 95 or other Flame Group restaurant!
Hotels in West Des Moines
GrandStay Hotel & Suites Johnston / Des Moines just opened within Johnston Town Center. The hotel offers 76 rooms, complimentary GRANDSTART® breakfast, pet-friendly rooms, an indoor pool and more. You could also try out Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines – Johnston where you can find suites with fireplaces, whirlpools and bunk beds.
For more information on places to stay and things to do in Johnston, Iowa, visit johnstonchamber.com.
Spending a day in Greater Des Moines (DSM) means you’ll have the chance to experience local outdoor recreation areas, shopping destinations and arts and cultural activities. It’s easy to have fun with the family, make friends and take in all that the region has to offer. Find events and things to do in DSM communities all year round at DSMpartnership.com.
Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and more than 400 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.