With Memorial Day coming up, we have rounded up ideas of ways you can enjoy the long weekend. Whether you want to take in some history or a nice hike, we have plenty of ideas for the whole family.
Adventureland Park
Though Adventureland has been open for a few weeks already, this weekend is the official opening of Adventureland Bay. Is there a better way to spend a long weekend than by riding rollercoasters, eating mini-donuts, and sipping on a drink at a swim up bar? We don’t think so.
Memorial Day Ceremony at State Capitol
Looking to teach the family about the history of Memorial Day and why it is important? The Iowa State Capitol will be hosting a Memorial Day ceremony at the Vietnam War Memorial on Monday morning. They will be performing the ceremonial act of a 3-volley salute followed by taps. They will also lay wreaths at the Korean War Memorial & Vietnam War monuments!
Inaugural Bulldog Races
Everyone loves a good horse race at Prairie Meadows, but a bulldog race? That is so fetch. Bulldogs will compete in five heats, and the Top Dog will even receive a grand prize. The best part? These races happen in between the regularly scheduled horse races, so you get two shows in one.
Pack a picnic at Ledges State Park
Memorial Day weekend is the perfect weekend to spend time outside. Ledges State Park offers more than four miles of trails to explore, leading up to Pea’s Creek “canyon.” Whether you want to spend the weekend at one of their campsites or take a day trip exploring the area, Ledges is sure to please.
Valle Drive-In
This drive-in theatre in Newton allows you to grill out and catch a double feature while doing it! Go back in time as you pull your car in to watch a movie (or two!) at sunset. This weekend they are showing the brand-new Cruella movie, as well as Raya and The Last Dragon, so this would be a great weekend showing for kids. Grab some popcorn and a football, and spend the evening outdoors catching the latest flicks.
Bike Trails
Want to explore the great outdoors on two wheels? Hop on a bike and take route to one of the more than 800 miles of trails throughout Greater Des Moines – including the iconic High Trestle Trail in Madrid. Speaking of hops, you could also try the Great Western Bike Trail, just south of Gray’s Lake, and hit up Confluence’s bike friendly patio for a Long Ride brew or two.
Iowa Cubs
Is it really Memorial Day weekend if baseball isn’t involved? Des Moines’ own lovable Cubbies will be in town this week from Tuesday – Sunday taking on the St. Paul Saints. And in our opinion, nothing sounds better than checking out Principal Park with a glove in one hand and a ballpark hot dog in the other! And remember, Friday is Fireworks Night! Go Cubs Go!
Iowa Barnstormers
Football season may be over for most people, but for Des Moines AFL team, The Iowa Barnstormers, the season is just beginning! They play at home on Saturday night vs. the Bismarck Bucks. So grab the family and head out to Wells Fargo Arena to enjoy some good ole high-scoring arena football action.
Raccoon River Park Boathouse
Memorial Day is meant to be spent on the water, right? Well, Raccoon River's got you covered. This new spot in West Des Moines offers rentals of watercraft so that you can explore the Blue Heron Lake (232 acres worth!). Rentals are provided on a first-come, first-served basis so prepare accordingly.
