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!
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.
Get solid as a rock at Climb Iowa climbing gym, the recreational climbing environment for avid climbers and novices, young and old, individuals and families. You'll appreciate the excellent body workout, challenging rock walls, and friendly, helpful instruction.
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.