When COVID-19 made travel abroad challenging, many families have put vacations plans on hold. But that doesn’t mean you can’t keep your wanderlust alive! You can experience new things and try unique foods right here in Des Moines! We’ve put together a list of landmarks, architecture, restaurants, festivals and other activities to help you recreate the experience of traveling the world right here in your hometown.
For even more ideas you might like our article, “Travel” With Your Kids in Des Moines and if you’re looking for things to do with your kids this fall check out our Fall Fun Guide.
Editor’s Note: We are primarily recommending that you view buildings from the outside, since a couple of the places listed are houses of worship. If you would like to go inside, we recommend to call ahead to schedule a tour.
Here’s a few ideas for your family to go around the world in Des Moines:
Explore France in Des Moines
What do you think of when you think of France? Wine? Cheese? Bicycles? Ornate Architecture? You can find all these things right here in Des Moines.
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Nothing is more French than taking a stroll along the Seine in Paris. And, while there’s no view of the Eiffel Tower, the Principal Riverwalk here in Des Moines is also full of charm. You can set out on foot to sight see or do as the French do and ride bikes. While you’re strolling, point out the Beaux Arts architecture of the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates, Des Moines City Hall, Polk County Courthouse and along the bridges of the Civic Center Historic District.
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Be sure to pack a picnic for while you’re out and about. The French understand that there is something timeless about dining alfresco that allows us to slow down, enjoy life, break bread, and tell a few stories under a shady tree. Places like Django, La Mie and The Cheese Shop will be more than happy to help you fill up your basket with French inspired goodies.
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France’s climate is not dissimilar to ours’ in Central Iowa, and just like here, fall is a great time to visit. The leaves change, the morning air is crisper and it’s harvest time, which makes it a great time to visit a local winery. Even though wine tasting is for mom and dad, many central Iowa wineries are family friendly and are in locations that kids will enjoy exploring too. You could also visit a local farm to pick apples or pumpkins.
Explore India in Des Moines
India is a very large country and evokes different thoughts and feelings in different people. You may think of large bustling cities, stunning temples and palaces or even tropical locales or desert landscapes. It’s such a rich, varied, and diverse country. Here’s a few idea to experience Indian culture here in Des Moines:
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The Hindu Temple and Cultural Center of Iowa is located near Madrid and is a place of worship for Hindus living in central Iowa. While, I’m not suggesting just walking in, it’s an interesting building to look at from the outside and walk around the grounds. It’s also worth doing a little bit of research to learn more about the Temple. Iowa PBS has a short video you can watch here.
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You can embark on a culinary adventure by trying a new cuisine. If you’re venturing out for your first Indian meal Des Moines has several options for you to choose from. Persis Indian Grill, Spice Pot Breads & Biryani, and Indian Tadka all offer traditional Indian meals. If you’d like to make a meal at home Konark Grocers will be help you find all the ingredients you’ll need.
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India hosts many many festivals throughout the year. A fun festival to attend in the Des Moines area would be the Des Moines Water Lantern Festival. This annual event at Water Works Park usually takes place in early August. The water lamp originated in India and is used to celebrate during various traditional festivals. You could try your hand at making a water lantern with the directions described here and then host your own family festival.
Explore Greece in Des Moines
When I think of Greece, I think of ancient architecture, great philosophers, healthy Mediterranean cuisine, and the beautiful blue waters of the Aegean Sea. While I don’t have a recommendation for recreating that last one here in Des Moines, we do have some other fun options for exploring Greece locally.
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Greece is known for famous buildings like the Parthenon. To capture a bit of that grandeur a few buildings in Des Moines copy that style with Neoclassic and Greek Revival architecture. The Greek Orthodox Church of Des Moines is one example and Drake University’s campus also boasts a number of buildings built in the neoclassic style. Plus, as a place of higher learning, you can hone your inner Socrates while you stroll the campus. The Greek were also great astronomers, another fun building to check out is Drake’s Municipal Observatory complete with the zodiac signs on the outside of the building.
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Food is always a great way to get to know more about a culture and luckily, Des Moines is home to several Greek influenced restaurants. The ambience and even sometimes music and entertainment of these establishments will really help you get the feel of traveling to Greece. Give Olympic Flame, Opa Italian & Greek, Gazali’s – Gyros & Mediterranean Specialties and Fresh Mediterranean Express a try.
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Each year The Greek Orthodox Church of Des Moines hosts the Greek Food Fair Festival, which is typically held in late May or early June. Due to the pandemic, they are holding a Greek on the Go Drive-Thru this fall. Pre-order and pre-pay for your meals online and then pick them up on October 9 or 10, 2021.
We’d love to hear your ideas for traveling the world with your kids in Des Moines!
