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.
