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Hidden Gems & Local Favorites in the Des Moines Area
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items Whether you're from the Des Moines area, new to town, or just passing through - these are things that keep me busy and entertained.
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Kidding Around as an Adult
Adventureland Altoona
Sporting Events
Other
Kidding Around as an Adult
Things To Do That Create That Childhood Nostalgia With An Adult Twist
Who doesn't love arcade games! Feel like a kid again while enjoying an adult beverage. They also have AMAZING pizza!
Up-Down DSM
Adult only zoo time? Yes please! See the animals, enjoy a drink or two, and they usually have live music as well!
Winter Nights: Zoo Brew Pop-Up
Another great option for arcade games in an adults only environment. Grab yourself a drink and let your inner child out!
The Operating Room West Des Moines
Putts & Pins has traditional American food and you can play mini-golf and duckpin bowling. The mini-golf is inside which allows for year-round entertainment.
Putts & Pins
Adventureland Altoona
Theme park/Waterpark
Adventureland Theme park is a great way to spend the day. They have a variety of rides, shows, and food for all ages.
Adventureland
Adventureland has numerous special evants including Oktoberfest! This is a 21+ event that includes traditional polka music, games, contests and of course, your favorite rides!
Oktoberfest 21+ Event
Phantom Fall Fest featuring five haunted houses, four scare zones, and 100+ monsters, alongside traditional rides and themed food options. Get you scream on!
Phantom Fall Fest
Adventure Bay is the waterpark at Adventureland and is included with park admission! Whether you're looking for family friendly with thrilling water slides, Iowa’s largest wave pool, a lazy river, and multiple kiddie play areas OR adult time with a s...
Adventure Bay
Sporting Events
The Iowa Cubs are the Minor League Baseball team associated with the Chicago Cubs and they're located right here in Des Moines! I'm personally a season ticket holder and can attest this is a great way to spend time in the spring/summer. They offer numerous promotions and theme games!
Iowa Cubs | MiLB.com
The Iowa Wild are the AHL hockey team associated with the NHL Minnesota Wild team and are located right here in Des Moines! They offer numerous promotions and theme games. Whether you're a hockey fan or new to the sport, you'll have a great time.
Iowa Wild
The Iowa Barnstormers are the indoor arena football team here in Iowa. The smaller field offers a more fast paced game. Fun fact: Kurt Warner played for them!
Iowa Barnstormers
Other
The Farmers market in downtown Des Moines is a great experience. There are numerous vendors and the downtown area is beautiful.
Downtown Farmers' Market in Des Moines, Iowa
The Iowa State Fair is one of the best in the country. There are vendors, educational areas, the midway, soooo much food, and great concerts to name a few aspects. Definitely something you should check out if you're in the area during that time.
Iowa State Fair
The Des Moines Civic Center offers central Iowa access to amazing performing arts. I've personally been to see The Phantom of the Opera and Sleeping Beauty the ballet there.
Des Moines Performing Arts
This is a great place to explore different plants, host private events/weddings, and attend special classes. The Dome After Dark on Fridays is so pretty.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden | Top Des Moines Attractions