Top Family-Friendly Museums in Des Moines You Can’t Miss

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Des Moines is home to a fantastic variety of museums that offer something for everyone, and as a local mom, I’ve had the joy of exploring them with my kids over the years.

These museums hold a special place in my heart because I’ve watched my kids grow up experiencing them at different ages.

From toddlers exploring the interactive exhibits to older kids diving into history and science, each visit has been a chance to create lasting memories.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these museums are must-see destinations that combine education, fun, and opportunities to connect as a family.

1. State Historical Museum of Iowa

The State Historical Museum of Iowa has been a favorite for my family over the years.

It’s one of those go-to spots that’s perfect for popping in during cold weather months or rainy day.

The kids love walking around and soaking in some Iowa history, and as they’ve grown, it’s been so fun to see their curiosity and interests shift with each visit.

While it might not be a “blow your socks off” destination, it’s still a fantastic stop to explore Iowa’s history and enjoy interesting exhibits in a family-friendly setting.

👍 What’s Great for Kids:

• Younger kids will enjoy seeing the historical airplanes suspended from the ceiling, animal statues, bicycles, and sitting in a movie theater seat. 🚲 🦬 🎥

• Interactive exhibits and a play area make it especially fun for little ones. The play area includes a giant train table, play kitchen, Duplo blocks, and even a historical tractor to climb on. 🚜

• The older kids will enjoy seeing the large cannon, Hollywood in Iowa exhibit, and Conestoga wagon.

• The museum’s exhibits are designed to appeal to various age groups, offering something for everyone.

What to Expect:

• The museum highlights Iowa’s fascinating past, from life before statehood to the Civil War and even Hollywood’s ties to the state. 🎥

• Plan to spend about an hour walking around and exploring the exhibits. It’s not an all-day destination but makes for a worthwhile, relaxed visit.

• The environment is casual and welcoming for families, making it a stress-free outing.

Tips for Visiting the State Historical Museum:

• Admission is free, and parking is also free if you park in the garage at the northwest corner of East Grand and Pennsylvania Avenues. 🅿️

• Pair your visit with a trip to the Iowa State Capitol, located just a few blocks away. The two attractions are close enough to walk between for a full day of history and exploration.

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the gorgeous Iowa State Capitol grounds. 🧺

2. Living History Farms

Living History Farms has been another fun and memorable spot for our family over the years.

The kids absolutely love riding behind the tractor and going through the tunnel to reach the different farms—it’s an adventure they look forward to every time!

They’re always excited to see the farm animals up close and learn about life on the farm.

We’ve also created wonderful memories at their holiday events, like the Family Easter and Family Halloween celebrations. It’s a fantastic mix of fun and learning for all ages!

Conveniently located right off the interstate, Living History Farms offers a gorgeous outdoor setting where visitors will enjoy a hands-on experience of Iowa’s rural life throughout history.

👍 What’s Great for Kids:

A tractor ride to the 1700s Ioway farm, farm animals, costumed historical interpreters, and opportunities to role-play as a teacher or student in a one-room schoolhouse.

What to Expect:

The walk between farms is doable for young kids, and strollers are welcome, making it perfect for families with little ones.

Older kids can dive deeper into Iowa’s history, learning about the tools, traditions, and artifacts of rural life.

Meanwhile, younger kids will love riding behind the tractor and visiting the farm animals, including chickens, cows, sheep, horses, and pigs.

Living History Farms Admission & Tips:

Admission can be a bit pricey for larger families—$19 per adult and $14 for kids ages 2-12—but it’s worth it for a beautiful day outdoors filled with learning and exploration.

To save on costs, consider packing a picnic lunch to enjoy on-site, or head to The Machine Shed restaurant next door for a hearty meal after your visit.

3. Des Moines Botanical Garden

We also love visiting the Des Moines Botanical Garden! 🌸

During the winter months, it’s the perfect spot to escape the cold and soak in some warmth while enjoying the lush greenery and vibrant plant colors.

In the summertime, we’re all about experiencing the outdoors there too.

The kids especially love spending time by the Water Garden, where they could watch the frogs all day long!

It’s such a peaceful and beautiful place for the whole family to enjoy.

👍 What’s Great for Kids:

Kids will enjoy wandering the paths in the indoor conservatory, viewing the beautiful waterfall, and watching koi fish swim in the pond.

There’s also a charming wooden playhouse filled with nature-inspired objects for hands-on fun.

In warmer months, kids can explore the outdoor gardens, where they’ll love watching frogs leap onto lily pads in the Water Garden. 🐸

What to Expect:

The indoor conservatory is open year-round and is especially magical in the winter months when it feels like stepping into a tropical paradise.

The warm, humid air and colorful plants are a refreshing break from the cold Iowa weather.

Outside, the gardens feature walking paths and seasonal displays that are perfect for families to explore together.

For a break, relax by the scenic waterfall and pond inside or grab a bite at Flora Café, which offers delicious food and even a kid-friendly menu. 🍴

Tips for Visiting the Des Moines Botanical Garden:

• Visit in winter to experience a tropical escape, or plan a summer trip to take full advantage of the outdoor gardens.

• Stop by Flora Café for lunch or pack a picnic to enjoy along the nearby Des Moines riverfront.

• Check the garden’s calendar for special events like Dome for the Holidays, Dome After Dark, Music in the Garden, Trick or Trees, and more to make your visit extra memorable!

4. Des Moines Art Center

The Des Moines Art Center is a fantastic cultural spot in Des Moines that offers a mix of impressive art exhibit, engaging programs, and free admission!

While this is the museum we’ve visited the least, whenever we do go, we really enjoy our time.

As our older boys have grown, they’ve become more interested in discussing and pondering the art exhibits, which has made each visit more enjoyable.

👍 What’s Great for Kids

• The Des Moines Art Center is an excellent destination for older kids who can resist the urge to touch the art and appreciate the variety of exhibits, from modern to classic pieces.

• For younger children, the Art Center shines with its engaging art classes for kids as young as three, fostering creativity through fun, hands-on activities.

• Throughout the year, the Des Moines Art Center hosts special events and exhibits designed to captivate all ages. One of my favorite memories is crawling through a giant tape sculpture exhibit with my kids—it was an unforgettable and unique experience!

• Families can make a day of it by combining their visit with a trip to nearby Greenwood Park and the Rose Garden.

What to Expect:

• The Des Moines Art Center features a mix of permanent collections and rotating exhibits, ensuring something new to see on each visit.

• The museum is spacious and thoughtfully laid out, making it an enjoyable experience for all ages.

• Located at 4700 Grand Avenue, the museum is spacious, easy to navigate, and sits adjacent to Greenwood Park, making it convenient to pair art and nature into one visit.

Tips for Visiting the Des Moines Art Center:

• Admission and parking are free, so it’s a budget-friendly way to introduce your family to the arts.

• Take time to explore Greenwood Park or the Rose Garden before or after your visit—perfect for kids to burn off energy and for the whole family to enjoy the outdoor beauty.

• Check the Des Moines Art Center’s website for details on art classes or seasonal events that might align with your visit.

5. Science Center of Iowa

The Science Center of Iowa is one of our family’s favorite destinations in Des Moines for hands-on learning and interactive fun.

We have been members of the Science Center for years!

Located in downtown Des Moines, it’s a fantastic spot for all ages to explore and discover the wonders of science.

👍 What’s Great for Kids:

The Science Center of Iowa is packed with engaging, kid-friendly activities.

• For younger kids, the small children’s area is a family favorite, featuring a pretend grocery store, bubble-making stations, and Toddler Town, where little ones can use their imaginations and explore in a safe, fun environment.

• The older kids love the Weather Studio and green screen. They’ll love seeing how Channel 13 News broadcasts the weather live during the week—and might even get a chance to appear on TV!

What to Expect:

The Science Center offers a variety of exhibits that cater to all ages, from toddlers to adults.

• Some of our favorite interactive exhibits include launching a paper rocket and exploring the Maker’s Studio. In this creative space, kids can make a stop-motion animation, wire an electrical circuit, and experiment with the Wind Table for a hands-on learning experience.

• The Science Center of Iowa is conveniently located near a covered parking garage, making it easy to access, even with kids in tow.

• While there are no dining options inside the Science Center, several family-friendly restaurants are within walking distance, perfect for a lunch or snack break after your visit.

• Plan to spend 2–3 hours at the Science Center of Iowa to fully enjoy the exhibits and activities.

Tips for Visiting the Science Center of Iowa

• Plan for hands-on fun. Make sure your kids wear comfortable clothes and shoes since they’ll want to move around and interact with the exhibits.

• Visit during the week to catch the live Weather Studio broadcast at noon and give your kids the chance to appear on TV.

• Check the schedule for special programs and events, like live science demonstrations and planetarium shows.

• If you have little ones, budget extra time for the Toddler Town area—they won’t want to leave!

6. Des Moines Children’s Museum

The Des Moines Children’s Museum is a fantastic destination for imaginative play, making it one of the best spots in the area for younger kids to explore, create, and pretend.

I often take our youngest kids here for a fun morning of play before grabbing lunch and heading home for naps.

It’s the perfect spot to let their imaginations run wild, especially during the colder winter months when we’re looking for indoor activities.

👍 What’s Great for Kids:

This museum is packed with fun exhibits designed to spark your child’s imagination.

Kids can:

• Pretend to put out a fire as a firefighter.
• Sell ice cream from their very own ice cream truck.
• Deliver mail to various businesses around the play area.
• Put on a play in the theater.
• Grow vegetables in the garden.

With so many creative play options, there’s something to keep every little one entertained.

What to Expect

This is the perfect local children’s museum—it doesn’t have a ton of bells and whistles, but it’s an excellent space for kids to pretend and play.

The museum is thoughtfully designed, with all the exhibits located in one large room, making it easy for parents to keep track of their young kids while they explore.

Located in the lower level of Valley West Mall in West Des Moines, the Des Moines Children’s Museum is an easily accessible and convenient stop for families.

This museum caters primarily to younger children, with exhibits and activities best suited for kids ages six and under.

Admission is affordable at $6 for kids ages 1–9, while adults and children over age 10 are $4.

7. Pappajohn Sculpture Park

We love visiting the Pappajohn Sculpture Park on a warm spring day for a picnic, followed by a stroll to admire the unique sculptures.

Looking at these cool pieces never gets old!

The Pappajohn Sculpture Park, located at 1330 Grand Avenue in downtown Des Moines, is a stunning outdoor space showcasing impressive sculptures by world-renowned artists.

It’s a true Des Moines treasure, beautifully blending art, nature, and fresh air.

👍 What’s Great for Kids

This sculpture park is perfect for families who want to enjoy art in a casual, open setting.

Kids will love the chance to explore the grassy area while checking out the large, unique sculptures.

There’s a sidewalk that wraps around the park for an easy stroll especially if you have a stroller, or you can walk through the grass to get a closer look at the sculptures.

What to Expect

The Pappajohn Sculpture Park is part of the Des Moines Art Center, which is why it earns a spot on this list of family-friendly must-visit museums.

This outdoor extension of the Art Center provides a different way to experience art—up close and in the open air.

The park is free to visit and open year-round, making it a great budget-friendly option for families.

For even more free things to do in Des Moines, check out our full list!

Located just a few blocks from Des Moines’ Central Library, it’s easy to pair a visit to the park with a stop at the library for a fun-filled morning or afternoon.

For visitors from out of town, this park is a must-see!

Spending 30 minutes walking through and admiring the sculptures is a perfect way to add a cultural experience to your Des Moines itinerary.

Tips for Visiting Pappajohn Sculpture Park

• Plan for the weather. Since this is an outdoor space, be sure to dress appropriately and bring sunscreen or a jacket, depending on the season.

• Bring your camera. The sculptures make for excellent photo opportunities, whether you’re capturing memories or snapping shots of the stunning art.

• Explore nearby attractions. Combine your visit with a trip to the Central Library or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the area. You could even stop by the sculpture park before or after a visit to the Science Center or Iowa or even the Art Center.

The Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a favorite for our family—we try to visit a few times a year to enjoy the fresh air and incredible artwork plus it’s a great excuse for us to drive to downtown Des Moines!

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this park is sure to leave a lasting impression.

8. Iowa Gold Star Military Museum

The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum is another museums we’ve only visited a handful of times, but every time, the kids absolutely love it!

They’re especially drawn to the military vehicles and the lifelike dioramas, always asking tons of questions.

The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum is one of the most impressive and inspirational museums in the Des Moines area, offering a deep dive into Iowa’s rich military history.

If you have an interest in military history or just enjoy exploring stories of courage and service, this museum is a must-visit.

👍 What’s Great for Families:

This museum will interest visitors of all ages with its fascinating exhibits, including several interactive elements that kids will love.

📌 Be sure to pick up the scavenger hunt at the entrance—it’s a fun way to keep kids engaged as they explore.

The exhibits are thoughtfully arranged by the different wars in U.S. and Iowa history, giving visitors a chance to follow a chronological journey through time.

There’s even an exhibit dedicated to the Iowa State Patrol exhibit.

Location and Admission:

The museum is located at the Camp Dodge training center in Johnston, Iowa.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to present a driver’s license or government-issued ID at the main gate to gain access.

Best of all, admission is free, making it a budget-friendly way to explore some Iowa history with your family.

What to Expect:

• The museum offers a mix of artifacts, multimedia displays, and hands-on elements that bring history to life.

• From uniforms and real equipment to detailed dioramas, every exhibit tells a story of bravery and sacrifice.

• Plan to spend about an hour or so here to take it all in.

• Pair your visit with a drive to the Saylorville Lake spillway just 6 minutes away!

9. Jordan House Museum

The Jordan House Museum is definitely better suited for older kids, but it’s a fantastic historical destination that will spark important conversations.

Located in West Des Moines, the Jordan House Museum is a treasure trove of history and a significant landmark tied to the Abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad.

What Makes the Jordan House Museum Special:

This inspiring home played a pivotal role in both Iowa and American history, offering visitors a glimpse into the courageous efforts of the Jordan family during a critical time in our nation’s past.

Tour Details:

Tours are available on Fridays and Sundays at 11:00 a.m. or 1:30 p.m.

Tickets must be purchased in advance through the West Des Moines Historical Society’s website, with the cost (including fees) being around $6 per person.

Each tour lasts about 60-75 minutes.

📌 Note: You cannot visit the Jordan House Museum without purchasing an advanced tour ticket.

Who Should Visit

I’d recommend this tour for kids aged 10 and older.

The home is filled with fragile artifacts, and the depth of historical information shared during the tour is best suited for older children and adults.

What to Expect

The guided tour is a fascinating journey through the life of the Jordan family, showcasing their role in Iowa’s history and their incredible contributions to the Underground Railroad.

You’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for their bravery and the enduring impact of their actions.

Plan ahead to make the most of your visit to this impressive and meaningful museum!

🌟 If you’re exploring West Des Moines, don’t miss out on these other great activities.

10. Iowa State Capitol Building

The Iowa State Capitol is hands-down one of our family’s favorite spots to visit in Des Moines.

Our Experience:

Our family LOVES visiting the Capitol building and its grounds—we’ve been numerous times with our kids, and it’s always such a fun and interesting experience. Our kids LOVE it too!

What to Expect:

The Capitol is open to visitors Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Guided tours are available during these hours and are a fantastic way to explore the building’s history and stunning architecture.

Tours last about 60-90 minutes.

If you’re planning ahead, you can call to schedule a tour. But if you decide to visit on a whim, walk-ins are welcome—just check to see if there’s an open tour when you arrive.

While self-guided tours are an option, keep in mind that certain rooms are only accessible with a guide, especially on Saturdays.

Also, you will have to go through security to enter the State Capitol building.

Why We LOVE It

The Capitol is an absolute must-visit! The architecture is stunning, and it’s packed with history.

It’s also a fantastic learning experience for kids.

Our boys are so curious about government and history, and they love seeing Iowa’s government come to life inside the Capitol.

They always leave full of questions and new ideas! 💡

Tips for Visiting the Iowa State Capitol

• There are several visitor parking lots near the Capitol, with the closest being near the intersection of Walnut Street and 12th Street. The signage is clear, so finding parking is usually a breeze.

• On a nice day, take some time to stroll around the Capitol grounds. The outdoor space is beautiful and features numerous historical statues that make for an engaging walk and photo opportunities.

• If you’re visiting the Iowa State Capitol with young kids, I recommend opting for a self-guided tour. It gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace, and it’s easier to step away if the kids get upset or bored.

Uncover History, Art, and Fun at Des Moines’ Top Museums

Des Moines is packed with incredible museums and cultural experiences for visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these museums offer a perfect blend of education, entertainment, and family-friendly fun.

If you love these museum ideas, check out my full list of top things to do in Des Moines with your family!

May you love your adventure. KWm