Parks
97 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- EMC Downtown Park0.1 mi from downtown
- Temple Chess & Poetry Garden0.3 mi from downtown
- Lynne Cutler Park0.5 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Des Moines
5 kinds of free outings in and around Des Moines.
Good days out in Des Moines don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- Des Moines Public Library1000 Grand Ave
- Forest Avenue Library1326 Forest Ave
- North Side Library3516 5Th Ave
Historic places
150 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- Iowa State Capitol
- Basilica of St. John, Des MoinesBuilt 1927
- Des Moines Art CenterBuilt 1948
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Bob Shetler Picnic Area8 mi north
- Cottonwood Recreation Area8 mi north
- Bob Shetler Recreation Area9 mi north
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Bob Shetler Picnic Area8 mi north
- Cottonwood Recreation Area8 mi north
- Saylorville Lake9 mi north
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
5 things to see and do in Des Moines, Iowa from bus life travels
A local activity Short shared by The Hive Drive.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
3 things to do in Des Moines (Iowa)
A local activity Short shared by Travel Tour.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Des Moines?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Des Moines this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.