Best Free Things to Do For Kids and Adults in Des Moines, Iowa
For Kids:
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park: 4.4-acre park featuring large-scale sculptures.
- Science Center of Iowa: Free admission on certain days.
- Gray’s Lake Park: Beach, playground, and walking trails.
- Des Moines Art Center: Free admission to view contemporary art.
- Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens: Beautiful gardens with Asian-inspired design.
For Adults:
- State Capitol Building: Free guided tours available.
- Downtown Farmers’ Market: One of the largest open-air markets in the Midwest (seasonal).
- Salisbury House and Gardens: Free grounds access (fee for interior tours).
- Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden: Free admission to outdoor gardens.
- Raccoon River Valley Trail: 89-mile trail for cycling, walking, and running.
