Summer in Greater Des Moines

While the S's in Des Moines may be silent, our summer activities are sizzling. Summer is the perfect time to explore and have some fun in the sun! From exciting attractions and peaceful parks to unique cuisines and famous festivals, here are just a few things that will make your summer trip to Greater Des Moines an annual one.

Your Greater Des Moines Outdoor Adventure  

Love being out in the sun, soaking up those rays? Saylorville Lake is Greater Des Moines' premier spot to make a splash. Rent a pontoon, take a dip in the lake, go fishing, set up camp, or saddle up to one of the two bars and grills situated along the 26,000 acres of water. Or take a stroll around Gray's Lake, a scenic oasis in the heart of downtown, perfect for picnics and paddle boats with a skyline view you won’t be able to stop snapping pics of.  

For those who prefer to stay dry, check out Greater Des Moines' High Trestle Trail. Known for the spectacular half mile 13-story bridge that is illuminated at night, this 25-mile trail passes through five Iowa towns, with plenty of places to stop for a bite or brew. These are just a few of the many parks, lakes, and trails that journey through our Greater Des Moines area. With so many options, our metro is any outdoorsman’s dream.

Summer Drinks & Dining in the Sun 

Greater Des Moines is fit for foodies and summertime is perfect for pairing our metro’s eclectic eats with an incredible view. When the sun’s out and the air warms, you know patio season is here. We have a handful of unique food spots with areas for outdoor eating that are some of the best views of our city. What pairs well with a patio? Margaritas and happy hours. We don’t make the rules!  

And of course, no summer evening would be complete without ice cream. Whether you like it in a cup, on a cone, soft-serve, or hard packed, Iowans know how to do dairy well. Home to some of the best ice cream shops in the state, you really can’t go wrong.

Farmers Markets Around Greater Des Moines 

No summertime trip to Greater Des Moines is complete without a visit to one of our outstanding farmers' markets. Support local entrepreneurs at noteworthy markets throughout Greater Des Moines that each offer a unique experience and high quality handmade and locally grown products. See for yourself why people travel miles to come see the Downtown Des Moines farmer’s market, spanning 12 city blocks with over 305 vendors from 74 cities across 42 Iowa counties. Think hefty breakfast burritos, colorful floral arrangements, pristine fresh produce, and the urge to make an impulse purchase you won’t regret.

Summer Thrills & Chills  

The rides scream at Iowa's biggest fun-filled theme park. Consisting of both Adventureland and the adjacent water park, Adventure Bay, there’s plenty of action to be had for the young and young at heart. With more than 100 rides, shows and attractions, not to mention those mini-donuts you can’t stop eating, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure and plenty of sunscreen. For a truly exotic experience here, head over to the Blank Park Zoo! Thriving in the summertime, this zoo is home to a wide variety of animals such as lions, seals, lemurs, red pandas, and more. You can even take part in feeding a giraffe! Bet you didn’t expect all that in the heart of central Iowa. 

Did you know Des Moines is home to the Chicago Cubs’ minor league affiliate team? That’s right, you can catch the Iowa Cubs at Principal Park in downtown Des Moines almost every other week in the summertime. Hot dogs, beer, and a ballgame; what more can you ask for? There’s so much to do and see in Greater Des Moines during the summer.

Summer Events in Des Moines 

Des Moines is an event city, and we’re proud of it! You come for the event, and stay for the attractions and award-winning dining scene. There are a multitude of incredible events during the summer from expos and fairs to festivals and farmers' markets all across the metro.  

Perhaps the most pivotal summer event in Des Moines is the annual Iowa State Fair, bringing in more than a million fair goers from across the entire country. Our fair boasts 200+ food vendors where you can get just about anything on a stick, hundreds of livestock, global headliners, and tons of attractions for all ages. 

Summers in Des Moines wouldn’t be complete without live music. Every year, venues around the Greater Des Moines metro hold their own summer music concert series; most being completely free. There’s no better way to spend a summer evening than in a lawn chair or on a blanket and listening to music, surrounded by a community of Midwesterners. 

Our city comes alive in the summertime for the festival season. Become immersed in diversity at Capitol City Pridefest or the Latino Heritage Festival. Try new cuisines at the World Music & Food Festival or the Greek Food Fair. Watch golf pros play 18 holes at the Principal Charity Classic, or view hundreds of artists from around the country at the Des Moines Arts Festival.

Planning a summer getaway in Des Moines? Our three-day summer itinerary is perfect for individuals, couples, and families who are looking to soak up some warm weather! Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, Des Moines has everything you need to make your trip unforgettable. Start planning yours today!

INSIDERS GUIDE

Hear from locals about where to eat, drink, and spend your time while visiting Greater Des Moines. Catch an insider look at events, suggested itineraries, places to shop, and a few of the many delicious restaurants. These are just a few of our recommendations! Check out an entire list of blogs below: