Winter in Des Moines is a magical time for both reading and exploring local attractions. By pairing a great winter-themed book with an exciting local outing, you can create fun and memorable experiences for the whole family. Here’s how you can make the most of both reading and exploring this winter season.
To uncover more family-friendly activities for winter in Des Moines, be sure to explore our comprehensive Winter Fun Guide and Events Calendar.
Here are some ideas for winter books to read and attractions to visit in Des Moines:
We did not provide links to the books; we encourage you to check books out at your local library or visit a local bookstore to make your purchase.
Read The Snowy Day Then Build a Snowman at a Local Park
Begin with the classic story The Snowy Day, which captures the joy and magic of a snow-covered world. After reading about the adventures of Peter in the snow, take your family outdoors to a local park and create your own snowman. Whether it’s your first snowfall or your tenth, building a snowman will bring the magic of the book to life!
Read Making a Great Exhibition Then Visit the Des Moines Art Center
In Making a Great Exhibition, your kids will get an inside look at what it really takes to create an art show, with simple, easy-to-understand text and bold illustrations. They’ll be fascinated by the many people who come together to make an exhibition happen and will likely never look at a museum the same way again! After reading, head to the Des Moines Art Center to explore their galleries and see the creative process at work firsthand.
Read Bear Snores On Then Enjoy a Cozy Hot Chocolate at a Local Café
Curl up with Bear Snores On, a delightful story about a bear who hibernates through a winter gathering of animals. After reading, treat your family to a cozy hot chocolate at one of Des Moines’ local cafés to warm up and reflect on the fun winter antics in the book. It’s the perfect way to end a chilly winter day!
Read Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed Then Visit a Local Indoor Playground
In Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed, the mischievous monkeys cause trouble by jumping on their bed, and one by one, they fall off and bump their heads! This uproarious rhyme, full of playful illustrations and a surprising twist, will have your little ones giggling. After reading, head to a local indoor playground, where your kids can jump, play, and have their own energetic adventures—just like those cheeky monkeys!
Read The Mitten Then Visit the Blank Park Zoo
The Mitten is a charming tale of a young boy who loses a mitten, only to have a host of animals find refuge inside it. After enjoying this heartwarming story, head over to the Blank Park Zoo (yes, the zoo is open during the winter) to see real-life animals. While you’re there, learn about the creatures that might be cozying up to stay warm in the winter, much like the animals in the book.
