6 Kid-Friendly Summer Activities In The West Des Moines Area

Summer is officially underway, bringing with it long sunny days and endless possibilities for fun! Whether you're looking to beat the heat indoors or get outside and enjoy the warmer weather, there's no shortage of kid-friendly activities in the West Des Moines area.

We've rounded up some summer activities that are sure to delight the whole family. A few recommendations before you embark on your adventure: Bring plenty of SPF and bug spray, stay hydrated and call ahead to confirm the hours and access before you head out the door.

1. West Des Moines Public Library

Address: 4000 Mills Civic Pkwy, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Phone Number: 515-222-3400

What better way to keep your kids learning throughout the summer than visiting your local library? The West Des Moines Public Library’s calendar is chock-full of programs for kids, including storytimes, craft sessions, movie screenings and educational activities. Click here for a full calendar of children’s events.

2. Des Moines Children’s Museum

Address: 1551 Valley West Dr, Suite 108, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Phone Number: 515-218-8344

At the Des Moines Children’s Museum, your kids can nurture a love of learning through the power of play. The interactive exhibits and hands-on activities are designed to inspire and educate young minds. There are weekly and monthly recurring events year-round, as well as summer day camp programs for ages 4 to 7 and 7 to 9. Click here for more info.

3. Blank Park Zoo

Address: 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315
Phone Number: 515-285-4722

Take the kids on “Iowa’s Wildest Adventure” with a trip to Blank Park Zoo. It’s home to a diverse array of animals from around the globe and features engaging exhibits and hands-on educational programs for children. Check out the calendar on the website for upcoming special events throughout the summer. Click here for more info.

4. Science Center of Iowa

Address: 401 W Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone Number: 515-274-6868

Kids who love science will have a blast spending the day at the Science Center of Iowa. Here you’ll find numerous interactive exhibits and science demonstrations designed to spark curiosity in children. It's an excellent venue for hands-on learning and discovery for visitors of all ages. Click here for more info.

5. Valley Community Center

Address: 4444 Fuller Rd, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Phone Number: 515-327-6000

Valley Community Center offers a broad range of sports programs and special interest clubs for kids. Bring your children here to stay active, develop new skills and make new friends all summer long. Click here for more info.

6. Urban Air Adventure Park

Address: 2829 South Ankeny Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50023
Phone Number: 515-639-3018

Too hot to play outside? Head over to Urban Air in Ankeny. This indoor adventure park offers trampolines, climbing walls, rope and obstacle courses, sports areas, a tubes playground and even virtual reality experiences. The kids can burn off energy and enjoy a variety of activities in a safe environment. Click here for more info.

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