Nothing is more exciting than the sports action of professional ice hockey. The sound of bodies on the boards, the swoosh of skates on the ice and the roar of the announcer shouting "GOAL!" are second only to an exciting ice brawl. Join the Des Moines Buccaneers for a fight and maybe a hockey game will break out!
See the buffalo roam at the Prairie Learning Center, gateway to the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. Discover over 5,000 acres of scenic prairie tallgrass, home to herds of buffalo, pheasants as well as native wildflowers and plant life. Visit the world-class 13, 000-square-foot nature center and the Prairie Point Bookstore for memorable souvenirs of your outdoor adventure.
Where's the beef? It's at the Iowa State Fair, also home to the famous annual Butter Cow Sculptures tradition. You'll be attending the official state fair where the state shows off its agriculture might. For 11 days, there is a corral full of indoor and outdoor exhibits, rides, craft shows, musical acts and wild attractions.
Harvest local produce at the Des Moines Farmers Market located in downtown Des Moines. Stock your refrigerator with farm fresh eggs, goat cheese and seasonal vegetables. Buy an array of fresh flowers and wines for your home. As they say, "Come for the freshness and stay for the fun."