Best Things to Do in Des Moines This Winter
Des Moines winters transform the city into a surprisingly vibrant playground where locals embrace the cold rather than hide from it. From outdoor ice skating under downtown lights to cozy brewery crawls in Valley Junction, Iowa's capital offers genuine winter experiences without the tourist crowds. Whether you're bundling up for a snowy sculpture park stroll or warming up at a farmers market turned winter wonderland, there's plenty to keep you entertained when temperatures drop.
Top Winter Experiences in Des Moines
Brenton Skating Plaza
This downtown outdoor ice rink at Western Gateway Park becomes Des Moines' winter gathering spot from November through February. The plaza sits right next to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, creating a uniquely artistic skating backdrop. Skate rentals are available on-site, and the warming house serves hot chocolate.
It's the only outdoor ice skating rink in downtown Des Moines with skyline views and free admission.
Visit on Friday evenings when they often have DJ nights and the rink stays open later with a younger crowd.
Downtown Des Moines Farmers Market (Winter Edition)
The legendary Saturday farmers market moves indoors to the Historic Valley Junction area during winter months. You'll find local vendors selling everything from Iowa-raised meats to handcrafted goods in a heated environment. It's smaller than the summer version but maintains that community feel Des Moines is known for.
You can still support local farmers and makers without freezing, plus the indoor setting makes browsing more comfortable.
Arrive by 9am for the best selection of fresh baked goods from local bakeries before they sell out.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park Winter Walks
The sculpture park takes on a completely different character under snow, with 31 works of art creating dramatic contrasts against white landscapes. Located in Western Gateway Park downtown, it's open year-round and completely free. The sculptures by artists like Keith Haring and Deborah Butterfield become even more striking in winter light.
It's one of the most Instagram-worthy winter spots in Des Moines and you'll often have it mostly to yourself on cold days.
Park in the ramp at 15th and Locust for easy access and walk through after a fresh snowfall for the best photos.
Exile Brewing Company
This East Village brewery becomes a cozy winter refuge with its industrial-chic space and rotating seasonal beers. Their winter stouts and porters are locally famous, and the kitchen serves hearty comfort food perfect for cold days. The space has plenty of seating and a welcoming vibe that encourages lingering.
They consistently release some of Des Moines' best winter seasonal beers and the East Village location makes it easy to bar hop.
Try their Ruthie stout series in winter months and grab a spot near the fireplace on the main floor if you can.
Science Center of Iowa
This hands-on science museum in downtown Des Moines offers a perfect indoor escape during brutal winter days. The planetarium shows are particularly appealing when it gets dark early, and the exhibits engage both kids and adults. Located near the State Capitol, it's easy to combine with other downtown activities.
It's the best indoor family activity in Des Moines when the weather is too harsh for outdoor adventures.
Check their website for free admission days, which happen monthly and can save a family significant money.
Beaverdale Winter Bar Crawl
The Beaverdale neighborhood on Des Moines' north side has a concentrated cluster of bars and restaurants within easy walking distance. In winter, locals bundle up and hop between spots like Eatery A, The Lift, and other neighborhood favorites. The residential area gives it a different feel than downtown.
You get an authentic neighborhood experience rather than a tourist district, and the bars are genuinely local hangouts.
Start at the north end of Beaver Avenue and work your way south so you're walking slightly downhill as the evening progresses.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
The geodesic dome conservatory on the east side maintains tropical temperatures year-round, making it a warm escape during Iowa winters. Inside you'll find lush plants, a koi pond, and rotating exhibits. The contrast between stepping out of 20-degree weather into an 80-degree jungle is dramatic and refreshing.
It's the closest thing to a tropical vacation you'll find in Des Moines during winter without buying a plane ticket.
Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience and best light for photography through the dome.
Adventureland Inn Indoor Waterpark
Located in Altoona just east of Des Moines, this hotel waterpark is open to day guests during winter months. The tropical-themed indoor facility includes slides, a lazy river, and warm water when it's freezing outside. It's particularly popular with families looking to burn energy on long winter weekends.
It's the only significant indoor waterpark option in the Des Moines metro area for winter entertainment.
Day passes are cheaper on weekdays, and arriving right when they open means smaller crowds and cleaner facilities.
Insider Tips for Winter in Des Moines
Downtown parking is significantly easier in winter than summer. The ramps at 4th & Court and 6th & Walnut rarely fill up on cold days, and street parking along Grand Avenue is usually available after 5pm when workers leave.
Layer aggressively for outdoor activities. Des Moines winter wind chill can be brutal, especially in open areas like the sculpture park or along the riverfront. Locals know that 20 degrees with wind feels closer to zero.
Many Des Moines breweries and restaurants participate in 'Iowa Tap Takeover' events during winter months, featuring exclusive seasonal releases. Follow your favorite spots on social media to catch these limited releases.
The Des Moines Skywalk system connects much of downtown through enclosed, heated walkways. You can walk from the Capitol to Wells Fargo Arena area without going outside, though the system can be confusing for first-timers.
Winter restaurant deals are common in Des Moines. Many spots offer special prix fixe menus or discounts during January and February to attract customers during slower months—check local food blogs for current promotions.
If you're visiting outdoor attractions like Brenton Skating Plaza, the nearby Des Moines Social Club (in the old Firehouse) is perfect for warming up with coffee or a cocktail between activities.
Common Questions About Winter in Des Moines
What to Expect During Des Moines Winters
Des Moines winters run roughly November through March, with January and February bringing the coldest temperatures and most consistent snow cover. Expect daytime highs in the 20s and 30s, though polar vortex events can occasionally push wind chills well below zero. The city handles snow removal efficiently on main roads, but side streets in neighborhoods like Sherman Hill or Beaverdale can stay icy for days after storms. Winter in Des Moines means embracing indoor culture—the brewery scene thrives, coffee shops become community hubs, and locals take advantage of the excellent restaurant scene. The shorter days (sunset around 5pm in December) encourage cozy evening activities. By late February, you'll notice Iowans getting restless for spring, but winter typically maintains its grip through mid-March. The trade-off for cold weather is authentic Midwestern hospitality, lower prices than summer peak season, and the satisfaction of experiencing Des Moines as locals do rather than as a tourist destination.