When the air turns crisp, the midday sun softens, and fall flavors begin to appear on menus, you know it’s time for autumn in Des Moines. This season is all about slowing down and savoring the small rituals. Think: bundling up in a favorite scarf, warming your hands around a mug of cocoa, or heading out for a day of apple picking. Fall brings its own rhythm to Des Moines, and with it comes a full calendar of things to do!
Fall Events in Des Moines
For traditional things to do in Des Moines in the fall, our Oktoberfest celebrations kick off in late September at The District in Ankeny. Late September also sees the Iowa Latino Heritage Festival take place, with food, music, arts, crafts, and all the flavor and diversity of Latin America in one convenient place.
Looking for something a little more old school? Experience a weekend of medieval pageantry at the Fall Renaissance Faire at Sleepy Hollow. The event fills the season with jousting matches, artisan markets, and harvest-themed performances that bring a touch of history to autumn in Des Moines.
Don’t forget the Downtown Farmers Market, which runs through October, to catch the best of Iowa’s harvest before the season ends. For a classic family outing this fall, check out the Scarecrow Festival at Center Grove. Here, kiddos can ride wagons and jump in giant pools of dry corn!
Pumpkin Patches & Apple Orchards Near Des Moines
What fall adventure could be complete without pumpkin picking? Des Moines is full of pumpkin patches to get your fall fix. One of the most popular spots is Center Grove Orchard, offering a wide range of activities and attractions all in one place. The “pick your own” pumpkins, apples, and massive food area attract families from all over the state every year.
Howell’s Pumpkin Patch is another popular destination. Find the perfect candidate for a jack-o-lantern, and stay for the pumpkin cannon! Rose Farmstead is a recent addition to Des Moines pumpkin patches. Try your hand at decorative pumpkin painting and enjoy a warm cup of apple cider.
For apple picking in Des Moines, late August to early September is your best bet. The Honeycrisp Weekend in nearby Cumming is a must-stop!
Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Des Moines
Fall sees Des Moines transform into a wave of colorful hues. As the leaves slowly turn from green to orange, Jester Park is the perfect place to snap some pictures. Likewise, Easter Lake Park is an excellent option within Des Moines’ city limits. Autumn is also great for scenic drives in the Des Moines area. The Lincoln Highway Heritage Byway passes close to town and boasts amazing views of the local landscapes in the fall. You can also experience the colors of fall at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden or walk the Iowa Arboretum. Billing itself as a “Library of Living Plants,” at the Iowa Arboretum, you’ll stroll through hundreds of species of trees, shrubs, and flowers in a tranquil, 40-acre scenic fall setting.
Haunted Houses & Halloween Fun
Des Moinesians take Halloween pretty seriously. In fact, Halloween in Des Moines has its own twist thanks to “Beggars’ Night,” a long-standing local tradition where kids share a joke, riddle, or short performance before receiving their treats! It’s a uniquely Iowa custom that makes trick-or-treating a little more memorable. Check out our handy guide to trick-or-treating in Des Moines for more details!
Every fall, Sleepy Hollow opens its doors to thrill seekers for six terrifying attractions at their Haunted Scream Park. For even more spooky ideas, read our blog on haunted houses in Des Moines and indulge in some seasonal frights!
Fall Food & Drinks in Des Moines
Pumpkin spice may be the hallmark of fall, but cafés in Des Moines bring their own twist to the season. Horizon Line Coffee leans into tradition with its house pumpkin spice latté, while Mars Café experiments with flavors beyond the usual, like a Baklava-inspired drink layered with honey and spice. Our complete guide to Des Moines cafés will help you plan the perfect autumn outing.
Every year, Des Moines transforms into an autumn playground, featuring apple orchards, pumpkin patches, haunted attractions, and fall festivals that showcase the best of Des Moines' creativity and originality. Start planning your trip today and see what the fuss is all about in the fall!
