Make the Most of the Last Days of Summer: 15 Things To Do Before School Starts in Des Moines

Make the Most of the Last Days of Summer: 15 Things To Do Before School Starts in Des Moines

Once again, summer is flying by at an alarming pace! Regrettably, the constant reminders in our inbox about the impending start of school serve as a daily countdown, signaling that summer’s blissful days are about to screech to a halt. But fear not! Before the season slips away, let’s ensure our summer fun doesn’t hit the skids by crossing off these essential must-do’s from our summer bucket list.

For even more ideas to count down the waning days of summer visit our Calendar, check out the Summer Fun Guide and sign-up to receive the dsm4kids’ Weekend Fun Guide.

Here are 15 fun things to do with your kids before the end of summer:

1. Cast a Line

Not only does fishing give children the thrill and satisfaction of catching a fish, but more importantly, fishing gives kids the chance to experience the outdoors. Don’t let your kiddos start school without having cast a line at one of these local fishing holes.

2. Catch an Outdoor Movie

Make an exception and skip the normal bedtime routine this weekend. Instead, head outside to catch one of the summer’s last outdoor movie screenings with the kids. They’ll wonder why you ever dragged them to a movie theater.

3. Dine Alfresco

As summer wanes, so does the best weather for dining outside.  Be sure to take full advantage of the last glorious days of the summer sunshine with a meal (or two) on one of Des Moines’ fabulous outdoor patios.

4. Eat some Corn on the Cob

Whether you choose to pick it yourself, sample some at the Adel Sweet Corn Festival, or simply pick up some up at a local farmers’ market, you still have time to savor our state’s favorite grain. It’s Iowa. It’s the summer. Eat some corn.

5. Find Your Rhythm

Grab your blanket and chairs and take in some live summer concerts before they bid us adieu. This is a great time and opportunity to introduce your kids to what live music is really all about.

6. Hit the Beach

Make the most of the final fleeting days of summer by heading to one of the Des Moines Metro’s local beaches or lakes. These nearby lakes are perfect for swimming, boating, fishing and more!

Make the Most of the Last Days of Summer: 15 Things To Do Before School Starts in Des Moines – dsm4kids.com

7. Gaze into the Night Sky

Whether you’re using a telescope or finding your favorite constellations all on your own, your kiddos will be so excited to discover the wonders of the night sky.  Experience the magic of Stargazing in Central Iowa.

8. Head into the Woods

While camping is not always easy with kids in tow, you can still savor summer at Fam-friendly Honey Creek Resort. Or, if you are feeling more adventurous, head out to nearby camping spots.

9. Eat a Cool Frosty Treat

Go on, you know you want some! You can’t let summer pass by without at least one (dozen) trips to your favorite ice cream shop or shave ice spot in town.

10. Make a Splash

Make sure your kids have had a chance to get wet and wild at one of these Des Moines area aqatic centers, pools or splash parks before summer says “sayonara”.

11. Pedal Fast

Grab your helmets and your bikes and spin on down to some family fun.  No need to rush, take it easy and enjoy some great Iowa scenery on a family bike ride the kids will remember.

12. Play a Few Holes

Grab the sunscreen and make the most of the remaining days of summer by playing a few rounds of mini golf with family or friends.

13. Watch the I-Cubs Play

It’s summer. It’s the I-Cubs. Enjoy America’s favorite past time and take your kids to see the boys of summer before summer’s gone.

14. Attend a Summer Festival or Fair

With numerous neighborhoods and communities hosting their own festivals, not to mention the iconic Iowa State Fair, there are plenty of opportunities to make unforgettable memories before the season comes to an end.

15. Get Ready for Life After Summer

If the end of summer has snuck up on you like it has us, leaving you with a to-do list a mile long, drop the kiddos off at one of the following day camps and take care of business.