Who doesn’t love a free family activity!? We found many fun things you can do with your family in Des Moines this summer that won’t cost you anything. Enjoy!
Free Things to Do in Des Moines This Summer
1. Play at a new park
Des Moines has so many great parks, it can be hard to choose! Some of our favorites is the brand new Gray’s Lake Playground and Spray-ground in Des Moines, Waterworks Park and Splashpad in Grimes, Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines, Triumph Park in Waukee, Walker Johnston Park in Urbandale, Miracle Park in Ankeny and McHenry Park in Des Moines.
2. Check out free outdoor events from Des Moines Performing Arts
Don’t miss a season full of captivating shows and activities set amidst some of the Des Moines area’s parks and outdoor venues.
- Storytime Under the Green Umbrella, June 10 and 24, July 8 and 22, August 5 and 19 at 10:30 AM, Cowles Commons
- Flip Fabrique: Summer Break, June 13-15, Parks around the Des Moines Metro
- Polyglot Theatre’s Bees, June 14-17 times vary, Parks around the Des Moines Metro
3. Enjoy Free Fishing Days on June 5-7, 2026
Find tips, maps, regulations, and the best spots for fishing in Iowa’s lakes, rivers, and streams.
4. Watch an outdoor movie
There’s something quintessentially summer about watching a movie outside under the stars. Check out our guide to outdoor movies and add one to your calendar.
5. Take a yoga class outside
Find your zen at one of the many free yoga classes offered around Des Moines this summer.
- Yoga in the Park, Saturday mornings starting June 6, Gray’s Lake, Des Moines
- Patio Yoga, Sunday mornings starting June 7, Big Grove, Des Moines
- Yoga on the Farm, evening dates vary, Middlebrook Farm, Cumming
6. Go to a beach
Des Moines (and Iowa) may not have a coast, but there are plenty of lakes you can dip your toes in. Be sure to check out the new Athene North Shore Recreation Area at Easter Lake. Check out other area beaches and enjoy a day on the water.
7. Check out a local festival or parade!
Summer is prime time for festivals, whether it’s a small town celebration or a cultural event, there’s one for you!
8. Visit the Greenbelt Goats in Clive.
This herd of goats does an amazing job of managing invasive plant species!
9. Take photos with sunflowers
Sunflowers in central Iowa usually peak in July and August. Check out our guide for where to find them near Des Moines and take your best “golden hour glow” selfie!
10. Go for a hike
Unplug and spend an afternoon exploring one of the great trails around Des Moines. Jester Park in Granger has a beautiful nature center, and Ledges State Park in Madrid is great for creek walking when temperatures start to rise.
11. Listen to live music at Jasper Winery
Thursday nights are for listening to music and relaxing. The Summer Concert Series at Jasper Winery is a family favorite. Food and drinks are available for purchase, but you can bring your own food.
12. Cool off at a spray ground or splash pad
Des Moines has more than so many spray grounds and wading pools! And they’re all free! These are great when your kids are little and going to the pool seems overwhelming!
13. Sign up for a library reading program
Encourage kids to read this summer and sign up for a summer reading program. Most offer fun (and free!) incentives for finishing. Check with your local library for details.
14. Take in some art
Walk the Pappajohn Sculpture Park or drive around to see the ever-growing array of murals around town. Admission is always free at the Des Moines Arts Center.
15. Visit a Farmers’ Market
Des Moines has some awesome farmers’ markets – from the famous Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings to the historic Valley Junction Farmers’ Market on Thursday nights. If people watching, dog petting, and food trucks are your thing, the farmers’ market scene in Des Moines is not to be missed!
