Things to do in West Des Moines

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau
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What to do in West Des Moines

Popular places to visit

Adventureland

Adventureland

Bring the family to Adventureland and enjoy this exciting theme park in Altoona. Experience the area's lively festivals and great live music.

Adventureland
Principal Park

Principal Park

Catch an event at Principal Park during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and great live music.

Principal Park
Iowa State Capitol Building which includes a statue or sculpture

Iowa State Capitol Building

A city landmark, this interesting building showcases design and architectural features that created a grand impression in the late 1800s and still inspire today.

Iowa State Capitol Building
Living History Farms

Living History Farms

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Living History Farms during your travels in Urbandale. Experience the area's great live music and lively festivals.

Living History Farms
Des Moines Botanical Center showing a garden and interior views

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Experience the tropics in an indoor garden oasis nearly 100 years old alongside a meandering river in this Midwestern city.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Des Moines Art Center which includes interior views and art

Des Moines Art Center

Spend time admiring the architectural lines of this art and education center before heading inside to view its outstanding collection.

Des Moines Art Center

Iowa State Fairgrounds

Enjoy an outing to Iowa State Fairgrounds during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.

Iowa State Fairgrounds

Casey's Center

Catch an event at Casey's Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and great live music.

Casey's Center

Jordan Creek Town Center

You can do some window-shopping at Jordan Creek Town Center during your visit to West Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene or attend a sporting event.

Jordan Creek Town Center

Frequently asked questions

Is West Des Moines worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor activities and history, there are plenty of fun things to do in West Des Moines. Remember to discover the area's mix of unmissable sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in West Des Moines?
Jordan House and Pump It Up are two great places to kick-start your getaway adventures. Remember to explore the retail and dining options in West Des Moines while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in West Des Moines?
The top tourist attraction in West Des Moines is Walnut Woods State Park, so make sure to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in West Des Moines?
Three days will be plenty of time to tick off popular city sights, such as Walnut Woods State Park, Jordan House and Pump It Up. The average stay in West Des Moines is two days. If you have the urge to extend your escape, Des Moines isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in West Des Moines with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in West Des Moines with kids.

What to do in West Des Moines for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are loads of things to do in West Des Moines for adults including Casey's Centre and Knapp Centre.
Are there free things to do in West Des Moines?
From enjoying parks to strolling around hip neighbourhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in West Des Moines. If you need new ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Walnut Woods State Park is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their travel adventures.