If you are ready to explore Iowa’s capital city, follow this itinerary on how to spend two days in Des Moines. Known for its vibrant arts scene and rich history, Des Moines offers a mix of cultural attractions and outdoor activities that cater to all interests. The city is also home to a variety of unique dining experiences and bustling local markets.
Camping in an RV is an ideal choice for accommodations. You can get produce from the Downtown Farmers Market and prepare meals in the RV. Furthermore, you are assured of a great night’s rest. Most Des Moines campgrounds have very scenic settings.
Search RV rentals in the Des Moines area.
Preparing for Your Des Moines RV Trip
You can find towable RVs to rent, while others are drivable. While most come with indoor kitchens, some have outdoor kitchens as well. Some are big enough to sleep you and a friend comfortably, while others can sleep up to 10 adults. No matter the type of RV you desire, you can find RVs in Des Moines to rent on RVshare.
Make the process even simpler and more fun by reading these blogs:
• How to Choose the Best RV Size for Your Trip
• RV Parking Tips: Finding the Perfect Parking Spot for Your RV
• 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Renting an RV
Des Moines has many terrific campgrounds. Therefore, you should spend a few minutes picking out the perfect campground to meet your needs. While some offer family-orientated activities, others provide a quiet location for two days in Des Moines. Top-rated choices include Timberline Campground, Des Moines West KOA Holiday, and Prairie Flower Campground.
Find other campground options in our comprehensive list of top-rated campgrounds in Des Moines.
Day 1: Explore Downtown Des Moines
Morning: Visit Water Works Park
With its nature playscape and beautiful mature trees, Water Works Park is a fantastic place for a stroll. Special events like the Summer Music Series and a seasonal German-themed beer garden happen here regularly. This park along the Raccoon River has a well-maintained bike trail. Local bands perform here on Sunday afternoons.
Lunch: Eat at the Maggie’s Rumble Room
Maggie’s Rumble Room is a terrific place to stop for pizza for lunch. You will love seeing their vintage neon lights and the motorcycle and music memorabilia on their walls. Bring some change to spin your favorite old-time tunes on the 45 RPM records in the jukebox. They also do terrific hamburgers and other sandwiches if you are not in the mood for pizza.
Afternoon: Roam the State Historical Museum of Iowa
Located just west of the state capital, the State Historical Museum of Iowa displays more than 1,500 items related to the state’s history. Visitors can learn more about Des Moines Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride, movie stars from Iowa, the Civil War, and the state’s earliest settlers. This is also a terrific venue to learn more about Iowa’s natural resources and where you might want to explore on a future RVing trip. In addition, they have a research library if you want to know something in particular about Iowa.
Setting Up Camp
Late afternoon is an ideal time to set up camp in a Des Moines campground. You can quickly hook up the hoses and electricity in just a few minutes. Alternatively, filter your search results on RVshare for an owner who will deliver their unit to your campsite, and they will set it up for you.
Dinner: Dine at Brick Street Cafe
Brick Street Cafe was opened after the founder won a $202 million lottery prize, and it is a delicious place to get a pork tenderloin. These sandwiches made from breaded pork loin are so famous in Iowa that the Tenderloin Trail leads visitors to the best options in the state. Their sandwiches are as big as a dinner plate. Consider washing it down with a cold malt, and if you have room, eat a slice of their chocolate pie.
Day 2: Discover Kid-friendly Des Moines Activities
Morning: See the Animals at Blank Park Zoo
Exploring Blank Park Zoo is an ideal way to start the day. Red River hogs, African lions, red pandas, and wallabies are only a few of the animals you may see. This zoo offers a special night weekly for those over 21 who want to drink responsibly while enjoying the zoo. They also host monthly Discover the Wild Days, with special conservation programs dedicated to one animal in their care.
Lunch: Eat a Maid-Rite for Lunch
Maid-Rites are a unique loose-meat sandwich that you will want to try at their locations inside Merle Hay Mall. This sandwich traces its roots back to 1926. This restaurant also offers wraps and fresh salads.
Afternoon: Explore the Science Center of Iowa
Science Center of Iowa encourages everyone to learn more about science through their interactive exhibits. Every month, they host a sensory-friendly evening for those on the autism spectrum. They also regularly host star parties and special seasonal events.
Dinner: Play While Dining at Backpocket Pin and Pixel
Backpocket Pin and Pixel is the ideal spot to take the family for supper. After dining on street tacos, chicken, or a burger, challenge your children to a game of bowling. The pins are much smaller at this venue, and they use very lightweight balls so that everyone can join in the fun. This taproom also has a retro arcade and puzzles to solve.
Day 3 and Beyond in Des Moines
Des Moines offers so many fun places to explore that you may want to extend your stay. If you can spend more than two days, locals recommend:
• Pappajohn Sculpture Garden: See more than 30 sculptures in this green space. Watch for special icons near some sculptures as they are designed for people to emulate their form nearby.
• Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens: People have enjoyed strolling in this garden since 1979. They often offer art and gardening classes and have a summer concert series.
• Salisbury House & Gardens: See fine art, antique furniture, decorative art, and musical instruments in this home that was built in the 1920s. The house features many paintings commissioned from contemporary artists by the home’s original owners, Carl and Edith Weeks.
Summer Activities
The Iowa State Fair is one of the largest and oldest state fairs in the country. This 10-day fair features top-name performers, livestock shows, contests, and many other activities. Ensure you see the butter cow carved into a unique shape annually.
Indoor Activities
Climb Iowa in the East Village offers 3,000 square feet of bouldering fun with over 80 problems to solve. They offer shoe rental and are available for lessons. K1 Speedway offers an indoor go kart track. Spare Time Entertainment offers bowling, escape rooms, an arcade, and laser tag.
Des Moines is a fantastic place to go on a camping adventure. Rent an RV in Des Moines and let the fun begin soon.
