Table of Contents

• Action and Adventure
• Animals
• Family fun

Action and Adventure

There are several adrenaline-pumping activities in the Des Moines area.

Adventureland is a great option for those who love thrilling rollercoasters and rides. Adventureland is continuously updating their attraction selection and also includes their in-house water park Adventure Bay.

Lost Island Theme park and Water Park is another way to beat the heat this summer. Located in Waterloo, Iowa the park is home to five realms at the theme park including Earth, Fire, Water, Air and Spirit, there is something for the whole family. In the theme park side of the island there are water rides, an arcade, playgrounds, roller coasters and family and kids areas in addition to several dining options. The water park side of the island is just as fun and exciting. Relax in the lazy river, race your friends and family down one of the 11 major waterslides, take the little ones through the four kids areas, and finish your day at Monaleo speedway to race go-karts and a round of adventure golf.

Animals

Whether you are as small as an ant or as tall a giraffe, everybody loves spending time on the WILD side.

Blank Park Zoo is Des Moines’ largest zoo. Open for over 58 years, this is a staple in native Iowans lives. Come any day to see and interact with the animals and spend time learning more about their conservation efforts or check out the website to attend some of the zoo’s special events such as character day, safari soirée, and different member specific events.

Coffee Cats Café is a newer attraction to West Des Mines. With special events such as yoga with cats every Tuesdays at 6:30pm and Saturdays at 8:00am, you’ll want to be there all the time. The Cat Café serves locally sourced coffee and food items, along with a separate cat lounge area housing adoptable cats from the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. Make your reservations at the top of every hour on their website.

With over 10 aquarium attractions, the Blue Zoo in Jordan Creek Town Center in West Des Moines is a must-see. Blue Zoo is an interactive aquarium with hands on learning. Touch and feed stingrays, birds and reptiles, see sharks, clownfish, angelfish, and more! There are also live shows and interactive play areas for kids.

Family Fun

Want to spend some time together after a busy work week, check out some of these family-friendly activities.

Located at The Great Escape in Pleasant Hill, Iowa, Bowlero has 24 state-of-the-art lanes, which includes private lanes for exclusive gatherings. Not interested in bowling? Do not fret because there are plenty of activities including laser tag and an arcade. Or just enjoy the fresh air at the outdoor seating area. Parents, check out the sports bar and lounge, which serves up delicious food and refreshing beverages in a laid back environment. Reserve a lane online.

Escapology in Clive, Iowa is truly a one of a kind experience. With over nine constantly evolving games to play, you can keep coming back again and again. Find clues, decipher codes, and solve puzzles. From team building and birthdays to casual evenings, your group will experience excitement, mystery, and nonstop fun. Reservations made on the website online.

Check out all that Flix Brewhouse in Des Moines has to offer. Dinner and a show? Now that’s something to can get behind. With new films showing or throwbacks, there is always a genre for someone. Flix Brewhouse Des Moines delivers a full dining experience with a crave-worthy menu delivered directly to your seat so you don’t have to miss a second of the film. And adults can enjoy America’s first-run cinema brewery. With fresh beer on-site, including a variety of flavors and handcrafted cocktails and wine on tap, you’re in for the ultimate moviegoing experience.

It feels like every time I step out of my apartment, I have to spend $60 to do, well, anything. Whether it’s grabbing coffee, running errands, or just existing in the world, it seems like the price of leaving the house is getting steeper every day. I always feel a little bit better if I buy something that is unique, one of a kind, or made to last. There’s something comforting in knowing that your money went toward something special—something with a story.

Most people in my generation have been thrifting, and while, yes—it is exhilarating to get a fabulous thrift find, it can also take hours of sorting through random tidbits of another person’s excess. You need patience, and you need luck. However, there are places that take the guesswork out of it—curating the best vintage and thrifted items so you can spend less time digging and more time discovering.

Enter: the antique malls.

In Des Moines, you’ll find vintage sections in most of our family-run stores, but for me, two places stand out: Funky Finds, located in downtown Des Moines, and The Picker Knows on Grand Avenue.

Funky Finds is a small business packed with charm and loads of vintage clothes, home goods, records, books, and a delectable selection of cooking wares. It spans two floors, each full of personality, and any vintage fanatic can find a trinket or treasure to keep them happy until their next purchasing adventure. Even if you’re just browsing, it feels like a tiny time machine of tastefully preserved nostalgia.

The Picker Knows is a sprawling mall with booths rented out by antique dealers, each one with its own flair. One of my favorite booths is The Awkward Vintage Co.—where you might find a wild rattan seating set, a 1970s tweed circle skirt, and a lava lamp all in one spot. It’s the perfect mix of quirky, stylish, and conversation-starting pieces.

So, if you’re looking to shop small, shop smart, and come home with something everyone cool will comment on, these two local spots are well worth the trip.

Top Things to Do in Des Moines for College Students

When people think of Iowa’s capital city, they may picture politics and insurance companies—but for college students, Des Moines offers so much more. Whether you’re attending Drake University, Grand View, or DMACC, you’ll find a mix of fun, food, and culture right in your backyard. Here are some of the best things to do in Des Moines for college students.

Explore the East Village

One of Des Moines’ most vibrant neighborhoods, the East Village is packed with unique restaurants, thrift shops, local boutiques, and cozy coffee spots. It’s the perfect weekend destination for students looking to unwind or snap photos for Instagram. Grab brunch at St. Kilda or treat yourself to a latte at Horizon Line Coffee. You can even wander into Raygun for quirky Iowa-themed t-shirts and gifts.

Catch a Local Show or Concert

Des Moines has a surprisingly active arts and music scene. Popular venues like Wooly’s and Noce feature everything from indie rock concerts to live jazz nights. Many events are affordable (especially for students), and some venues even offer student discounts or all-ages shows.

Visit the Des Moines Farmers Market

Held every Saturday from May through October, the Downtown Farmers Market is a local favorite. It features fresh produce, handmade crafts, food trucks, and live entertainment—all free to enjoy. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a fun way to spend a sunny morning downtown.

Relax in Nature

Looking to clear your mind or get some fresh air? Des Moines is home to several beautiful parks, including Gray’s Lake and Water Works Park. Both offer walking trails, lakeside views, and quiet spots to study, picnic, or just chill out between classes.

There are countless things to do in Des Moines for college students—you just have to know where to look. From artsy neighborhoods to green spaces and live music, the city offers a little bit of everything. Whether you’re a freshman exploring for the first time or a senior looking for new adventures, Des Moines is full of opportunities to make memories on a student budget.

Des Moines, Iowa, is a vibrant city with rich history, culture, and plenty to explore. But if you’ve ever heard people say the name differently, you might be wondering: How is Des Moines pronounced? Whether you’re a new resident, a visitor, or just curious, we’re here to clear up the confusion.

The Correct Pronunciation of Des Moines

The name Des Moines is pronounced duh MOYN (dəˈmɔɪn). While it may look tricky due to its French origins, it’s actually simpler than it seems. The “s” at the end is silent, and the first syllable sounds more like “duh” than “day.”

Many locals and visitors mistakenly say “Dez Moines” or “Des MOE-in,” but these are incorrect. If you want to sound like a native, stick with duh MOYN for the best results.

Why Is It Pronounced That Way?

Des Moines got its name from French explorers who called the nearby river “La Riviere des Moines,” which means “River of the Monks.” Over time, the city adopted the name but dropped most of its French pronunciation, keeping only the essential sound MOYN while making the first syllable softer.

Like many U.S. cities with French roots—New Orleans (Or-LEENS), Louisville (LOO-uh-vuhl) – Des Moines has evolved its pronunciation to fit English-speaking norms.

Common Mispronunciations to Avoid

If you want to blend in, steer clear of these common mispronunciations:

• “Dez Moines” – The “s” isn’t pronounced.
• “Des MOE-in” – The second syllable isn’t “Moe.”
• “Day Moyn” – The “Des” part is pronounced more like “duh.”

Even some locals might joke about these variations, but knowing the right way to say it can help you sound more confident and informed.

Final Thoughts

Des Moines may have a name that confuses some, but now you know: duh MOYN is the correct pronunciation! Whether you’re visiting, moving, or just curious, pronouncing it right can help you fit in and show appreciation for the city’s history.

If you’re planning a trip to Des Moines, Iowa, check out local attractions, restaurants, and events that make this city truly special.