Des Moines Attractions

Attractions in Des Moines, Iowa

Adventureland - Adventureland Amusement Park contains over 100 rides, shows, and attractions including some of the country's most exciting roller coasters and thrill rides that can challenge the most avid amusement park enthusiasts. Adventureland presents a full array of shows in the park - from live music to magic to song and dance - there's always something to suit everyone's taste.

Arnolds Park Amusement Park - Built in 1927, the Legend roller coaster, located at Arnold's Park, is actually the 13th oldest wooden roller coaster in the U.S. An amusement park just wouldn't be as amusing without games of skill where you can win big, stuffed prizes! Win, lose or draw, every game offers its own brand of genuine fun!

Blank Park Zoo - The Blank Park Zoo manages 49 acres of land. Currently there are 104 different animal species and 1,484 animal specimens cared for at the Blank Park Zoo. Come and see them!

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden - The Des Moines Botanical and Environmental Center is one of the most popular cultural attractions in Iowa, providing educational, recreational, and community resources to thousands. Its goal is to provide botanical displays and educational services for its visitors.

Des Moines Art Center - The Des Moines Art Center engages diverse local and international audiences with the art of today through its museum and school, adding to the cultural record through collections and programs.

Living History Farms - One-hundred and forty years ago, Martin and Ellen Flynn completed their dream house, which stood proudly atop Walnut Hill in rural Des Moines. The 14-room Italianate country home featured many of the latest in residential innovations. Most significantly, their home represented, for all to see, that these two once-penniless Irish immigrants had achieved the American Dream.

Salisbury House & Gardens - Discover the enduring charm of 16th century England, the changing America of the 1920s, the vibrant culture of the 21st century.

Science Center of Iowa - Imagine. Experiment. Play! At the Science Center of Iowa, the experience is yours! From the inner workings of the human body to the outer reaches of the solar system, science surrounds you with dynamic live programs and hands-on exhibits.

Sleepy Hollow Sports Park - Sleepy Hollow is Des Moines' unique 60-acre year-round outdoor sports and family recreation complex. Sleepy Hollow emphasizes year-round activities and family fun. We cater to individuals as well as school groups, church groups, company picnics and more.

State Historical Museum - The State Historical Museum is an exciting adventure: its exhibits tell the stories of Iowa’s growth and development through the exhibition of a rich collection of historic artifacts and documents. Central to the history of Iowa are its people. Some found fame here. Others grew rich, some achieved notoriety.

The Heritage Carousel - The Heritage Carousel has provided smiles to thousands of people since it first started going in circles. It was established to provide an affordable, wholesome and nostalgic family based activity. It is located in a working class section of Des Moines and hosts riders from all over the metro area and Central Iowa, as well as those who travel to see authentic carousels across the country.