Fall foliage, cooler temperatures, and doorways decorated with cornstalks and gourds create a welcome change from summer throughout Des Moines and central Iowa. Des Moines families anticipate traditions they know and love as autumn settles in, like football season, apple picking, Halloween, and all the opportunities to get outdoors without breaking a sweat—and plenty more!
This year, we’ve rounded up the classics and thrown in some fresh ideas too. Don’t forget to check out our Fall Fun Guide and Events Calendar for even more fall fun in Des Moines.
The official first day of fall is September 22, 2024. Celebrate the start of the season by diving into these 35+ fall-themed activities:
1.Go apple picking at a local farm or orchard. U-pick apples are available from early September through the end of October.
2. Go vintage shopping. Check out the Vintage & Made Fair on September 21 or Highland Park’s Vintage event on October 20.
3. Attend Animate and Nightmare on September 27 for a spooky experience.
4. Enjoy a family-friendly fall festival. Check out our Fall Festival Guide for local events.
5.Watch a movie under the stars. Windsor Heights offers a FREE Movie in the Park—October’s feature is Hocus Pocus (October 4, 2024). West Des Moines’ Moonlit Movies will show Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (October 16, 2024).
6. Plan a fall-themed birthday party if your child has an autumn birthday.
7. Catch a live performance on a Des Moines stage—many shows are kid-friendly.
8. Attend a Des Moines Buccaneers hockey game. Their home season kicks off on October 4, 2024.
9. Go camping. Fall camping is a must! Choose one of these kid-friendly camping spots for an overnight adventure.
10. Pick pumpkins at a local pumpkin patch for fall décor or carving.
11. Take a scenic bike ride on one of Des Moines’ many beautiful trails.
12. Celebrate National Taco Day (October 4, 2024), Taco Tuesday, or any day with tacos from a local spot.
13. Enjoy the fall foliage with a scenic drive, hike, or weekend retreat.
14. Schedule a playdate at a public park—Des Moines has several accessible parks perfect for kids of all ages.
15. Ride the Pumpkin Express at the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad. Costumes are encouraged on October 5 and 12, 2024.
16. Sip on a pumpkin spice latte or try other seasonal treats at a local café.
17. Plan a tween or teen outing—go bowling, visit an arcade, or attend a teen-friendly event.
18. Go stargazing. The crisp fall air makes for clear night skies—telescope optional!
19. Watch world soccer on October 5 and cheer for your favorite teams.
20. Take a fall weekend trip to Omaha and explore their kid-friendly activities.
21. Join a storytime at a Des Moines area public library with your little one.
22. Play with your preschooler using our 11 fun ideas.
23. Cheer on the Iowa Wild at their home opener on October 12, 2024.
24. Watch football at a family-friendly sports bar.
25. Celebrate Oktoberfest at a local event with festive food and music.
26. Attend a local college football game—check out our guide for game day fun.
27. Attend the Central Iowa Wind Ensemble concert this fall.
28. Try a new after-school activity like dance, art, or sports—perfect for fall afternoons.
29. Participate in a fun run or themed fall race with your family.
30. Shop at the farmer’s market. Many remain open through the end of September and October.
31. Catch an Iowa Wolves basketball game—the season tips off on November 8, 2024.
32. Visit the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden to explore their fall exhibits.
33. Explore Living History Farms. Attend a fall event or take in the fresh autumn air on the farm.
34. Go horseback riding and enjoy the beautiful fall scenery.
35. Take the family out to eat. Check out our Kids Eat Free list for great dining options.
