Outdoors
in Des Moines, IA

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There’s nothing better than breathing fresh air and getting in touch with nature. State parks, botanical gardens, trails, lakes, and farms are exactly the place to do it – and this area is full of them.

Take a look at all the options within driving distance – you’ll be surprised at how close your next adventure is. We provide the driving directions, but the sunscreen’s on you!
Blank Park Zoo
Blank Park Zoo

(515) 285-4722

7401 SW 9th St
Des Moines, IA 50315   Directions Website

Go on an Australian Adventure at the Blank Park Zoo located in Des Moines, and enjoy a Day Down Under with black swans and emu's. Journey the 22-acre naturalist animal Kingdom to see 104 different furry friends, and see wild exhibits and attractions like the prehistoric dinosaurs at the ZooPlex.

Central Iowa Trail Association
Central Iowa Trail Association

(515) 309-3229

301 Grand Ave
Des Moines, IA 50265   Directions Website

Cheap, dirty, fun is what you'll find at Seven Oaks mountain bike trail, according to the Central Iowa Trail Association. Check out the 7.2-mile track for mountain bikers, designed by mountain bikers. The challenging technical course runs across 200 acres of wooded ravine and creek crossings.

Des Moines Botanical Center
Des Moines Botanical Center

(515) 323-6290

909 Robert D Ray Dr
Des Moines, IA 50316   Directions Website

Calling all green thumbs to the Des Moines Botanical Center. Meander through the rows of colorful miniature rose bushes, orchids and delicate bonsai trees. Learn tips about how to make a garden grow, sprout your own fragrant herbs and start your very own terrarium.

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

(515) 994-3400

9981 Pacific St
Prairie City, IA 50228   Directions Website

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.

Walnut Woods State Park
Walnut Woods State Park

(515) 285-4502

3155 Walnut Woods Dr
Des Moines, IA 50265   Directions Website

Big outdoor adventure happens at Walnut Woods State Park, located in Des Moines. The 260-acre scenic park invites visitors to ride a bike on the bicycle path, hike wooded trails, catch a fish, become an avid bird watcher, enjoy the woodsy picnic areas, and camp all week or weekend long.

Water Works Park
Water Works Park

(515) 283-8700

2201 George Flagg Parkway
Des Moines, IA 50321   Directions Website

Nature's largest collection of flowering crab apple trees grow at Water Works Park located in Des Moines. The beautiful 1,500-acre park is skirted by the Raccoon River and besides apples, sports big outdoor activities like biking, jogging, and hiking and picnicking. Naturally, nature lovers love it here!

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(515) 278-8882
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