Are your kids bored and is your family already needing new things to do this summer vacation? To help keep your kids busy, here are some of our favorite fun and free (or super cheap) things to do around the Des Moines metro.
- Read a Good Book (and Possibly Earn Prizes Too!) - Summer reading programs are in full swing and not only can kids earn prizes for reading every day, some libraries offer some fun goodies just for signing up. We received a fun pencil pouch from the Urbandale library and a free book for signing up for the Grimes library summer reading program. Find our favorite Des Moines summer reading programs for kids here.
- Look at Your Local Libraries - In addition to the Adventure Pass, our Des Moines area libraries also have outstanding programming and events. While most of their events are still virtual, they are hosting some amazing programs and activities regularly, and many include fun kits that you can do at home. Some Des Moines metro libraries are starting back up in person activities. We’re headed to a fun tie-dye class at the Urbandale library this afternoon.
- Watch an Outdoor or Indoor Movie - In the mood for a good family-friendly flick? Summer movie programs have lots to offer and there are lots of fun outdoor movies as well as summer movies at local theatres. Find local showings of outdoor movies around the Des Moines metro here and get the inside scoop about theater summer movies here.
Blank Park ZooImage Courtesy of Twokidsandacoupon.com
- Take Advantage of the Adventure Pass - Want to visit the Science Center, Blank Park Zoo, the Children's Museum or other family friendly attractions in the metro without the expense? The Library Adventure Pass allows public library card holders to reserve free passes to area attractions. Each pass is a one day pass to a specific area attraction and is for up to two adults and two children. Library card holders in good standing (without a past due balance) can reserve a free pass to each area attraction once every 365 days. Request the pass on your local library’s website or check availability here.
- Cool Off and Get Wet - These hot temperatures have many of us looking for ways to stay cool. Des Moines area pools and splash pads are now open and are the perfect place for family fun. Check out our master list here to find one near you. While area pools have a small admission charge, most area splash pads and splash parks are free. One important thing to keep in mind, is that many area locations are having a lifeguard shortage right now and may be having limited hours. It doesn’t hurt to call ahead or check online before making a trip.
- Free Roller Skating For Kids - In addition to free bowling, kids can get free skating too! Visit kidsskatefree.com to learn more about locations where kids can roller skate for free, and all you do is pay for skate rental.
- Kids Bowl Free - Did you know that kids can bowl free during the summer at participating locations? This fun activity can be done regularly and all you have to pay for is shoe rental. Lots of central Iowa bowling lanes participate including ones in Des Moines, Ankeny, Waukee and more. Learn more and find where kids bowl free at www.kidsbowlfree.com.
- Go to the Grimes Governors Days - This weekend marks the return of Governors Days to Grimes including their annual parade and more. Find out more in the Newsbreak article here.
Des Moines Sculpture GardenImage Courtesy of Twokidsandacoupon.com
- Search the Sculpture Garden (and other free art opportunities) - Did you know that the Des Moines metro has some amazing local art museums and displays that you can visit free of charge? The Des Moines Art Center, the Ankeny Art Center, and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park all offer free admission and amazing learning opportunities.
- Take a Walk in the Park - Did you know that Des Moines has over 75 parks with over 4000 acres of parkland and 81 miles of trails? Get out of the house and take a walk in a beautiful setting, play on the playgrounds or hit the bike trails to get exercise and fresh air with your family. Just don’t forget a water bottle and some sunscreen. You can even pack a lunch and make a day of it!
No matter what your family likes to do, there are lots of fun and free things to do in Des Moines, Iowa this summer. We’ll be sharing lots more free things to do in Des Moines in upcoming articles, so be sure to hit the follow button to stay in the loop.
Know of something we missed? Leave it in the comments below!