Fall in Greater Des Moines

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 Greater Des Moines. Bundle up in your best sweater or flannel, because this season is all about slowing down and savoring the small rituals across our metro area.

Pumpkin Patches & Apple Orchards Near Des Moines 

What fall adventure could be complete without pumpkin picking? Greater 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 Greater Des Moines, late August to early September is your best bet. Iowa Orchard in Urbandale is a can't-miss with U-Pick apples, homemade pies, and more!

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 cafes in Des Moines bring their own twist to the season (along with that flavor, because let’s face it, pumpkin spice does reign king). Think experimental flavors involving caramel, nutmeg, cinnamon, maple, and even Baklava. Be sure to grab some of Des Best coffee that our city has to offer.  

Speaking of drink, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention cozy plates to pair with it. Your trip to Des Moines wouldn’t be complete without trying Steak de Burgo at least once or grabbing a hearty brunch at one of our many outstanding brunch hot spots. Need a place to sit and stay awhile? The Des Moines craft brew scene is always open to beer lovers and easy conversation.

Fall Events in Des Moines 

For traditional things to do in Greater 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 Sports Park. 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. 

No matter what season you visit Greater Des Moines in, one thing is for sure. The memories you make will last a lifetime. Start planning your trip today and see what the fuss is all about in the fall!