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!

Äventyr i skattjakten genom centrala Des Moines

Centrum, Des Moines


Discover the hidden gems of Des Moines Downtown on our thrilling scavenger hunt! Uncover...


Downtown Riverwalk Gåta Rusk

Stadsvandring med konst i centrala Des Moines


This Iowa art hunt is packed full of pieces that will inspire and amaze you! Murals dont...


Des Moines Spökvandring

Centrum, Des Moines


Explore Downtown Des Moines with a self-guided, app-led ghost tour featuring riddles,...


Bulldogens lopp

Drake University, Des Moines


Experience a self-guided Drake University tour with an interactive app-led scavenger hunt...


Tror du oss inte? Skattjakten i Greenwood Park

Centrum, Des Moines


Från lekplatsens skoj till konst och blommande rosor – Greenwood Parks skattjakt är en Des...


EnepiskDes Moines, Iowa experience

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!
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.
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 its own charm—making every visit feel brand new. Click on each location to see related activities.

Polk County Heritage Gallery


 Vandra förbi Polk County Heritage Gallery och titta in i dess ständigt föränderliga fönsterutställningar. Denna utomhusplats ger en inblick i Des Moines livliga förflutna utan att behöva gå in.


Stadshuset


 Admire City Halls grand architecture from outside as you explore downtown Des Moines. Its stately presence is a testament to civic pride and history.


Hotell Fort Des Moines


 Förundras över Hotel Fort Des Moines historiska charm utifrån medan du utforskar stadens rika historia och arkitektoniska skönhet.


Polk County Courthouse


 Observe Polk County Courthouses impressive design from outside as you delve into its historical significance within downtown Des Moines.


Court Avenue Bridge


 Korsa Court Avenue Bridge under din skattejakt för att njuta av panoramautsikt över Des Moines River samtidigt som du nystar upp dolda hemligheter från dess brokiga förflutna.


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.


Flynn-Griffin Building


 Solve intriguing puzzles around Flynn-Griffin Building while uncovering its fascinating history during our adventurous scavenger hunt.


Des Moines Better Together Mural av 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.


Garden of Blessings av 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.


WorkSpace Mural av 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.


Reunited, with Bees av 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.


Välkommen till East Village av 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.


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.


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.


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.


Wifvat Plaza Solur


 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.


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.


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!


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.


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.


Iowas delstatshuvudstad


 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.


Terrace Hill (Guvernörsbostaden)


 Capitol Complex Tours erbjuder en utomhusvy av Iowas storslagna arkitektur. Utomhusutforskare kan få glimtar av historien medan de njuter av rekommenderade saker att göra i Des Moines.


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.


Lekplats


 Utforska Iowas hjärta med utomhuskonst och livlig energi vid Riverfront Des Moines. Lokalbefolkningen vet att de bästa väggmålningarna ändras med varje säsong, så varje besök ger något nytt att upptäcka.


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.


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.


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.


Des Moines Art Center


 Njut av utsikten över Principal Riverwalk för ett energigivande utomhusäventyr. Lokalbefolkningen älskar solnedgångspromenader längs vattnet, där du kanske ser kajakpaddlare eller hittar pop-up-matbilar nära broarna.


Se våra bästa utomhusaktiviteter per stadsdel

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 its own vibe ready for exploration—click on these neighborhoods to see the related activity.

Centrum

Centrum, Des Moines



 Downtown Des Moines offers a rich tapestry of attractions, from the iconic Court Avenue Bridge to the lively atmosphere of East Village Arts. It is a top spot for...


Drake University

Drake University, Des Moines



 Explore Drake University, where Des Moines history meets lively student life. Stroll past Old Main and Cowles Library for a day trip packed with unique sights and...


Centrum

Centrum, Des Moines



 Looking for unique things to do in Des Moines? Downtown offers a blend of art, gardens, and city energy. Explore spots like Three Cairns or the lively...


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 Downtowns 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.

A perfect way for tourists to see iconic landmarks in Des Moines. The app made it easy to navigate through interesting sites.

Chris G.

This was one of the best things to do in Des Moines. I loved learning about the local art scene while enjoying a self-guided tour.

Jessica D.

Att utforska Downtown var en oförglömlig upplevelse. De historiska platserna som Polk County Courthouse var höjdpunkter under vår tur.

David B.

The Garden of Blessings was such a beautiful spot to visit. A great outdoor activity around the Riverwalk neighborhood.

Sarah W.

What a fun date idea in the heart of Des Moines. We discovered hidden gems and enjoyed each others company while walking.

Michael S.

Jag hade fantastiskt kul när jag utforskade East Village. Målningarna och lokalhistorien skapade en fantastisk vandringstur.

Emily J.

A must-do when visiting Des Moines! This self-guided tour helped me discover local treasures Id never seen before in the Riverwalk area.

James A.

Such a fun way to spend an afternoon! The Crusoe Umbrella Sculpture added color to our adventure, making it memorable and engaging.

Megan W.

Det här var en av mina favoritupplevelser i Des Moines. Turen ledde oss till fantastiska konstverk och fascinerande berättelser runt om i staden.

Chris L.

A great family activity! We enjoyed discovering iconic murals and historical sites together during our walking tour of the East Village.

Laura M.

I loved using the ScavengerHunt.com app to explore Downtown. It made finding interesting spots like Reunited with Bees so much easier!

Daniel G.

Exploring the WorkSpace Mural was such a fun thing to do in Des Moines. I highly recommend this unique experience for locals and tourists.

Jessica D.

The Flynn-Griffin Building is stunning! This outdoor activity in the Riverwalk area made for an enjoyable afternoon with friends.

David B.

What a fantastic date idea! The interactive experience brought us closer as we uncovered cool spots around Des Moines.

Sarah W.

This walking tour was a fun way to see the city. I loved learning about local history while wandering through Downtown.

Michael S.

I had a blast exploring the Garden of Blessings. It was such a unique experience in the East Village, perfect for discovering hidden gems.

Emily J.

I absolutely loved using ScavengerHunt.com for this experience. It made exploring the East Village fun and easy while learning about local art!

Brian L.

This was such a cool thing to do in Des Moines. We explored unique locations that we would have missed otherwise, highly recommend!

Laura H.

The interactive walking tour through Downtown was engaging. I loved uncovering interesting facts about places like the Polk County Heritage Gallery.

Daniel R.

We had so much fun on our scavenger hunt! It was a great way to see iconic spots in Downtown and learn more about our city.

Ashley M.

This self-guided tour made for a fantastic outdoor experience. Strolling along and discovering murals really brought Des Moines to life.

Chris G.

Exploring the East Village was such a unique experience. The art scene is vibrant, especially with spots like Reunited, with Bees.

Jessica D.

A great family activity in Des Moines! The kids loved finding clues and we all enjoyed the beautiful sights around the Riverwalk.

David B.

This walking tour of Downtown was an amazing experience. I loved seeing the Polk County Courthouse and learning its rich history.

Sarah W.

What a fun date idea in Des Moines! We worked together on the scavenger hunt and discovered hidden gems like the Better Together Mural.

Michael S.

I had a blast exploring the East Village. The murals were stunning and it was a great way to enjoy some fresh air while learning about local history.

Emily J.

Had an amazing time on this unique experience! Exploring downtowns murals opened my eyes to all the creativity in our city.

James W.

A must-do thing to do in Des Moines! The interactive tour gave us insights into local art and culture that we never knew before.

Sophia L.

This was a cool way to see iconic landmarks like Reunited, with Bees while enjoying a self-guided tour of Des Moines.

Daniel H.

We loved using the ScavengerHunt.com app to navigate through East Village. It made exploring so much more engaging!

Olivia M.

A great outdoor activity around Riverwalk! Walking through this scenic area while uncovering history made my day special.

Chris G.

Exploring downtown was such a fun experience. The murals like No Action Too Small really brought the area to life for us.

Jessica D.

What a great date idea! We explored the Garden of Blessings and had an unforgettable time together in Des Moines.

David B.

This experience is perfect for families. We enjoyed finding murals and learning about our beautiful East Village neighborhood.

Sarah W.

The walking tour around City Hall was fantastic. I loved discovering local history and unique spots in the heart of the city.

Michael S.

I had a blast exploring the WorkSpace Mural by Jordan Weber. Such a fun way to see hidden gems in downtown Des Moines.

Emily J.

Vanliga frågor.

 
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?

 
Vad är hela listan över alla skattjakter och aktiviteter som jag kan göra i Des Moines?

 
Fun Des Moines Facts and Hidden Gems

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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