Experience pure excitement as you explore Des Moines Scavenger Hunt, Des Moines Art Walk, Drake University Scavenger Hunt, Des Moines Ghost Tour, and Des Moines Downtown Scavenger Hunt—all set among iconic landmarks or tucked-away gems.
Challenge your friends with trivia quests, wild photo dares, and clever puzzles using our app—compare scores instantly for social bragging rights after each adventure!
Top Outdoor Activities In Des Moines, Iowa
Step into the vibrant energy of Des_Moines, where the Riverfront district pulses with life and every corner invites discovery. Outdoor Activities in Des Moines offer an unbeatable way to experience must-see sights, from colorful murals to lively public spaces. Whether you are a visitor or a local, these adventures unveil hidden gems while making memories. Set out on your next day trip and view Des Moines like never before.
Outdoor Experiences in Des Moines, Iowa
Get ready to discover our expertly curated collection of Outdoor Activities in Des Moines, designed for thrill-seekers, families, and explorers of all kinds. Each activity is packed with excitement—think captivating art walks through East Village Arts, mysterious ghost tours that reveal the city’s secrets, and interactive challenges at iconic landmarks. Our experiences blend sightseeing with unique tasks so every outing feels fresh and unforgettable. Dive in and find your new favorite thing to do in Des Moines!
Top Rated
4.8 (21 reviews)
Adventures in Downtown Des Moines Scavenger Hunt
Downtown, Des Moines
Discover the hidden gems of Des Moines Downtown on our thrilling scavenger hunt! Uncover...
5.0 (25 reviews)
Downtown Riverwalk Riddle Romp
Downtown Art Walk, Des Moines
This Iowa art hunt is packed full of pieces that will inspire and amaze you! Murals don't...
4.9 (16 reviews)
Des Moines Ghost Hunt
Downtown, Des Moines
Explore Downtown Des Moines with a self-guided, app-led ghost tour featuring riddles,...
5.0 (15 reviews)
Wood You Believe It? The Greenwood Park Pursuit Scavenger Hunt
Downtown, Des Moines
From playground fun to art and roses in bloom—Greenwood Park’s scavenger hunt is a Des...
5.0 (20 reviews)
Bulldog Dash
Drake University, Des Moines
Experience a self-guided Drake University tour with an interactive app-led scavenger hunt...
An Epic Des Moines, Iowa experience
How Our Des Moines, Iowa Outdoor Activities Work
Our expert team scouts must-see spots and hidden wonders across 3,050+ cities—including over 50 Midwest destinations—to craft each Outdoor Activity just for you. Expect clear instructions plus route maps tailored specifically to each adventure.
During every experience your group explores on foot: answer trivia questions at historical markers; complete photo challenges by vibrant murals; solve puzzles among public art installations; rack up points through our award-winning app; then compare scores citywide after your journey.
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Top Outdoor Attractions In Des Moines
Des Moines attractions come alive when explored through engaging Outdoor Activities that combine history, art, and adventure. Stroll past the sparkling fountains at Principal Riverwalk Views or marvel at sculptures dotting Western Gateway Park as you solve clues and snap photos. The Drake Neighborhood Vibes are perfect for uncovering quirky trivia while Iowa State Fairgrounds buzzes with festival spirit year-round. Each location offers it's own charm—making every visit feel brand new. Click on each location to see related activities.
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Polk County Heritage Gallery
Wander by Polk County Heritage Gallery and peek through it's ever-changing window exhibits. This outdoor spot offers a glimpse into Des Moines' vibrant past without stepping inside.
2
City Hall
Admire City Hall's grand architecture from outside as you explore downtown Des Moines. It's stately presence is a testament to civic pride and history.
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Hotel Fort Des Moines
Marvel at Hotel Fort Des Moines' historic charm from outside as you explore downtown's rich history and architectural beauty.
4
Polk County Courthouse
Observe Polk County Courthouse's impressive design from outside as you delve into it's historical significance within downtown Des Moines.
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Court Avenue Bridge
Cross Court Avenue Bridge during your scavenger hunt to enjoy panoramic views of Des Moines River while unraveling hidden secrets from it's storied past.
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Crusoe Umbrella Sculpture – Des Moines, IA
Find inspiration under Crusoe Umbrella Sculpture during our exciting scavenger hunt! This artistic landmark is perfect for creative photo challenges.
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Des Moines Better Together Mural by Ben Schuh
Explore Des Moines' vibrant art scene with this interactive mural. Each letter reveals a unique city feature, making it a must-see for first-time visitors. Discover hidden gems in the Heart of Iowa.
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Garden of Blessings by Patrick Faris
Discover the beauty of street art with this colorful garden mural in Des Moines. Each flower blooms on brick walls, creating an unexpected oasis in the cityscape. Perfect for art lovers exploring Riverfront Des Moines.
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WorkSpace Mural by Jordan Weber
Uncover local stories through street art at this comic-inspired mural. A narrative unfolds as you explore each detail, making it an engaging stop on your Des Moines day trip.
10
Reunited, with Bees by Frank Hansen
Immerse yourself in raw emotion at this expressive mural by Frank Hansen. A highlight for any visitor keen on exploring Des Moines' artistic soul, located near the Capitol Complex Tours.
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Welcome to the East Village by Unknown
Capture memories at this vibrant East Village mural—a beloved photo spot among locals that sets the tone for exploring hidden gems around Grand Avenue.
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Spike the Bulldog Statue
Discover outdoor gems in the Heart of Iowa. Stroll Riverfront Des Moines, spot murals, and catch live music drifting from East Village Arts. Local tip: The Principal Riverwalk shines at sunset.
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Bulldog Shop - University Bookstore
Wander through Capitol Complex Tours for a taste of Hawkeye State Capital history. Enjoy lush lawns and snap photos with iconic monuments. Trivia: The golden dome is visible across downtown.
14
Cowles Library
Unwind at Iowa State Fairgrounds where outdoor activities buzz year-round. Savor craft beer during festivals or stroll open spaces. Local secret: Off-season, it is a peaceful spot for a walk.
15
Wifvat Plaza Sundial
Stroll the Principal Riverwalk for sweeping city views and public art displays. Feel the energy of Riverfront Des Moines as joggers and cyclists pass by. Fun fact: Look for hidden sculptures along the path.
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Harmon Fine Arts Center
Roam East Village Arts district outdoors, where murals pop with color and indie shops line the streets. Insider tip: Some alleys hide surprise installations by local artists.
17
Old Main
Relax at Sculpture Park Hub surrounded by creative works under open skies. Bring friends or picnic solo among quirky statues. Trivia: New pieces appear each year—spot your favorite!
18
Argonne Armory
Explore the Heart of Iowa with a stroll near the Riverfront Des Moines. Locals whisper about hidden art installations and the glow of city lights at dusk. Feel the pulse of the Hawkeye State Capital outdoors.
19
Woolys
Wander the Drake Neighborhood Vibes, where murals pop and craft beer flows nearby. The area buzzes with live music and outdoor art, making it a must-see for first-time visitors to Des Moines.
20
Iowa State Capitol
Take in Principal Riverwalk views while enjoying outdoor activities in Des Moines. Locals love spotting sculptures along the path—each one tells a story about this vibrant Hawkeye State Capital.
21
Terrace Hill (Governor’s Mansion)
Capitol Complex Tours offer an open-air look at Iowa's grand architecture. Outdoor explorers can catch glimpses of history while enjoying recommended things to do in Des Moines.
22
Old Red Horse Armory
Stroll by the Iowa State Fairgrounds for a taste of local life year-round. Even when events are quiet, you can sense festival energy—a unique outdoor thing to do in Des Moines.
23
Playground
Explore the Heart of Iowa with outdoor art and lively Riverfront Des Moines energy. Locals know the best murals change with each season, so every visit brings something new to discover.
24
Sylvan Theater
Wander the Sculpture Park Hub for a fresh take on outdoor activities in Des Moines. Snap photos of quirky installations and catch local trivia—some sculptures double as sundials on sunny days.
25
Clare and Miles Mills Rose Garden
Stroll the Capitol Complex Tours route for outdoor fun in the Hawkeye State Capital. Marvel at grand architecture and spot native prairie gardens—locals say wildflowers peak mid-summer here.
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Three Cairns
Roam the Des Moines Farmers Market for open-air excitement and local flavor. Outdoor activity peaks on Saturdays, when live bands fill the air and fresh produce lines every stall—insider tip: try the honey sticks.
27
Des Moines Art Center
Take in Principal Riverwalk Views for an energizing outdoor adventure. Locals love sunset strolls along the water, where you might spot kayakers or catch pop-up food trucks near the bridges.
See our Top Outdoor Activities By Neighborhood
From the creative pulse of East Village Arts to the storied streets near Capitol Complex Tours, our Outdoor Activities immerse you in the heart of every neighborhood. Each area has it's own vibe ready for exploration—click on these neighborhoods to see the related activity.
12,000+ Reviews For our Hunts
See what people say about our outdoor activities in Des Moines
Locals and visitors rave about our Outdoor Activities in Des Moines—Iowa’s capital city has never been so much fun! With five-star ratings pouring in, guests say things like 'I saw a whole new side of downtown.' Join countless happy adventurers who trust us for their day trips and group outings.
Using ScavengerHunt.com was an awesome way to explore downtown Des Moines. We found so many cool places we never knew existed!
Brian C.
Our family loved this interactive adventure in Des Moines! It was engaging and educational, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Megan L.
A fantastic walking tour that took us through Downtown's vibrant art scene. Highly recommend this as a fun thing to do!
Daniel H.
We had an amazing experience discovering unique spots around East Village. Definitely a great neighborhood experience!
Laura M.
FAQs.
What are some fun Outdoor Activities in Des Moines?
Are scavenger hunts good for groups in Des Moines?
I am new to Des Moines what do you recommend?
I am a Des Moines local would this be fun for me?
What is the full list of all the scavenger hunts and activities that I can do in Des Moines
LOCAL INSIGHTS
Fun Des Moines Facts and Hidden Gems
Did you know that Des_Moines began as a military outpost along two rivers? Today it is known as the Hawkeye State Capital—a hub for culture lovers drawn by live music venues and bustling farmers markets.
The city’s famous Sculpture Park Hub features world-class art installations right downtown. Next time you visit Des Moines or need ideas on
The city’s famous Sculpture Park Hub features world-class art installations right downtown. Next time you visit Des Moines or need ideas on
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