There are so many fun family events to attend during the summer that it can be tempting to try to do them all. Or, as we are heading into mid-July maybe you have! If you’re like most, you’re likely on a budget and looking for some inexpensive family outings. Here are some of our favorite affordable Des Moines summer outings to try. Hopefully we’ve included a few new ones for you!
Go on a Park Tour
Most of us know that parks are great places to enjoy some family time together. But, most of us typically have our favorites that we go back to over and over again. There are SO many parks in the Des Moines metro area that I bet even life-long residents can still learn a thing or two about all of their offerings. Tour Des Moines Parks has designated 31 parks, trails and facilities to visit during the month of July. Participants who visit the most spots are then eligible to compete to win prizes from Honey Creek Resort, the Iowa Cubs and more. FREE family entertainment + a chance to win a prize!
Go on a Historic Road Trip
You can hit the road under one roof this summer at the State Historical Museum of Iowa with hands-on programs about the state’s historic sites, movies and collections vault tours. Events take place on Wednesdays at 1:00 pm now through August 17, 2016 and it’s all FREE and open to the public. Attendees will be able to see what a road trip was like for Iowa’s early pioneers, watch a movie where the story is based in Iowa or go on a tour where the museum team will highlight artifacts in the State Historical Museum’s permanent collection.
Attend Summer Camp Together
Remember summer camp? The fun doesn’t have to stop just because you’ve grown up. You and your kids can participate in a number of camp activities this summer at the Bass Pro Shop of Altoona’s Family Summer Camp. FREE activities are offered every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday through July 24th 12:00 noon to 5:00 pm. Workshops are about 20 minutes in length with different activities offered each day. Examples of the topics covered include fishing, camping, hunting, hiking, bird watching and more.
Go to a Galaxy Far, Far Away
For your little Jedi, a fun event this will be! See the epic space blockbuster Star Wars: The Force Awakens in a unique open-air setting at the Johnston Public Library. Bring your light sabers (and don’t forget to pack your blankets and lawn chairs) to the library on Saturday, July 16, 2016. The movie will start at 9:15 pm and popcorn will be provided.
Enjoy Some Jazz in July
Unwind with the whole family at one of Metro Art Alliance’s FREE Jazz in July concerts. Older kids will love checking out the instruments and dancing under the setting sun, while the mellow tunes are sure to instantly calm down your itty bitties. Many of the concerts include food vendors, art booths, and hands-on activities for kids. Concerts are held almost every evening in July at communities throughout the Des Moines metro area.
More Options
To find even more FREE options check out our Summer Fun Guide where you’ll find a roundup of outdoor movies, outdoor concerts, FREE kids bowling programs and many other FREE summer events for families in Des Moines.
What are your favorite FREE events for families in Des Moines? Let us know!
