Do It Like a Local, A Weekend Guide to Des Moines

Des Moines is a busy place, with plenty to do. From sports teams to shopping, the arts to education, you won't run out of things to do. In fine weather outdoor entertainments call, enticing us with farmers markets, baseball and woodland strolls. In the cold of winter things heat up indoors with live theater performances, hockey games and ice skating at Brenton Plaza.

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Des Moines Farmer's Market
The first Saturday in May through the final Saturday of October brings thousands from around the metro area to Court Ave to purchase the freshest foods, tastiest treats and items for local artisans. In November & December the market moves indoors for one weekend each month.
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Iowa Cubs Baseball
The Iowa Cubs- farm team of the Chicago Cubs- play at Principal Park throughout the warm summer months. Many local businesses support the team and it's not unusual to see company outings to support our "cubbies". With family specials and a kids club, this is a great- and affordable- outing for the entire family!
This hotel has been completely remodeled and is now the Ramada Tropics Resort and Conference Center.
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Des Moines Playhouse
This community theater has something for everyone. Enjoy an adults only evening with a bawdy comedy or a family friendly matinee. Volunteer opportunities allow anyone to be part of the magic of the theater and childrens classes introduce kids to th wonder of imagination and acting.
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Brenton Skating Plaza
Daily public skating, skate rental, skating classes and organized broomball leagues keep Brenton Skating Plaza busy during the cold winter months (November to March). The open air rink plays host to concerts and other events in the warmer months.
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Royal Mile
The most authentic English Pub you'll find in the Midwest. Yes, truly- I've been in English pubs in England- this is incredibly authentic. From the wide selection of beers on tap to the best fish & chips I've had this side of "the pond". The dining room upstairs makes this a great place to bring the entire family.
Yes, truly- I've been in English pubs in England- this is incredibly authentic.
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Iowa Hall of Pride
Dedicated to the achievements of all Iowans- from the names you know like Shawn Johnson to hometown heroes. Terrific interactive displays and artifacts from decades of Iowa sports, this is a great place to learn about Iowa and her people.
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Living History Farms
Learn what it was like to settle in Iowa. See how farming has changed in 300 years, from the plains Indians to today. Wander through Walnut Hill, circa 1875 and meet the locals. Come for one of the special holiday events to learn how our ancestors celebrated. After you've worked up a hunger helping at the interactive displays head ... More >
Learn what it was like to settle in Iowa. See how farming has changed in 300 years, from the plains Indians to today. Wander through Walnut Hill, circa 1875 and meet the locals. Come for one of the special holiday events to learn how our ancestors celebrated. After you've worked up a hunger helping at the interactive displays head to The Iowa Machine Shed Restaurant next door for a farmer's meal.
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Ramada Inn Northwest
This hotel has been completely remodeled and is now the Ramada Tropics Resort and Conference Center. With a fun waterpark, tiki bar, great location off Interstates 35/80 and free wifi you'll find something here to make everyone in your family happy. On site restaurants are available, as well as many restaurants to choose from on Merle Hay Road. More
This hotel has been completely remodeled and is now the Ramada Tropics Resort and Conference Center. With a fun waterpark, tiki bar, great location off Interstates 35/80 and free wifi you'll find something here to make everyone in your family happy. On site restaurants are available, as well as many restaurants to choose from on Merle Hay Road.
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About the Author

Jody L Halsted
Jody L Halsted
Jody Halsted has been blogging since 2004, when she became a stay at home mom to her eldest daughter. As frequent travelers, Jody and her husband heard "You can't travel after you have a baby." When internet searches for family traveling turned up results for Walt Disney World and similar vacation spots, Jody began sharing her family travel how-to's in her first travel blog, Have Kid Will Travel. In 2010 Jody launched FamilyRambling®, a website designed to inspire family travel, provide tips to make it easier and share first hand trip reports. New for 2011 Jody is sharing her love of family travel in Ireland by launching Ireland With Kids, a website designed to promote family travel in the Emerald Isle. Jody also writes for various online and print publications. Jody is active in social media, sharing her knowledge via Facebook and Twitter as well as bringing together social media experts for her own I_Blog Conference. To follow Jody's travels be sure to visit the Family Rambling Facebook page (facebook.com/familyrambling). For more about Jody visit JodyHalsted.com.
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