Reading is a wonderful summer activity, and when combined with the thrill of exploring local attractions, it can create unforgettable memories. The Des Moines area offers a variety of family-friendly attractions that perfectly complement some excellent books. In this guide, we’ll show you how to pair a captivating book with a visit to a local attraction, creating a day filled with fun and learning in Des Moines.
To uncover more family-friendly activities for this summer in Des Moines, be sure to explore our comprehensive Summer Fun Guide and Events Calendar.
Here are some ideas for books to read and attractions to visit this summer 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 Wild Summer: Life in the Heat and then take a hike.
Immerse yourself in the realistic-fiction tale “Wild Summer: Life in the Heat,” which offers a fascinating look at how animals and plants adapt to the challenges of summer weather. Through engaging storytelling, you’ll gain insight into the remarkable survival strategies of various species during the hottest months. After reading, take your newfound knowledge outdoors by embarking on your own hike or joining a guided hike through a local nature center. This hands-on exploration allows you to witness firsthand the natural adaptations you’ve read about, making for an enriching and educational summer adventure.
Read the “Bug Circus” and then catch a FREE performance of El Circo”.
Dive into the whimsical world of “Bug Circus,” a delightful book where insects perform extraordinary acts under the big top. After enjoying this enchanting read, bring the magic to life by catching a FREE performance of “El Circo July 10-13, 2024, at various Des Moines area parks. This lively show promises a lion, a tightrope walker, and a weightlifter, all brought to life in a marionette puppet theater. It’s a perfect way to blend the imaginative adventure of reading with the thrill of the circus, creating a memorable summer experience for the whole family.
Read “Look Up with Me: Neil deGrasse Tyson: A Life Among the Stars” then look up at the night sky at a local Star Party.
Begin your cosmic journey by diving into “Look Up with Me: Neil deGrasse Tyson: A Life Among the Stars,” an inspiring book that explores the life and achievements of the renowned astrophysicist. Through engaging stories and illustrations, you’ll learn about Tyson’s passion for the universe and his path to becoming a leading figure in astronomy. After being inspired by the wonders of space, extend your experience by attending a local star party. Here, you’ll have the chance to gaze at the night sky through telescopes, identify constellations, and discuss celestial wonders with fellow stargazers. It’s a wonderful way to connect the book’s themes of curiosity and discovery with real-life astronomical exploration.
Read “The Twenty-One Balloons” and then experience a kaleidoscope of colors at The National Balloon Classic.
“The Twenty-One Balloons” is a classic tale about an eccentric professor who plans to fly across the Pacific Ocean. However, through a twist of fate, he lands on the secret island of Krakatoa, where he discovers a world of quirky inhabitants and incredible balloon inventions. After enjoying this enchanting story, immerse yourself in the magic of real-life balloons at the National Balloon Classic in Indianola, held this year from July 26 to August 3. It’s a perfect way to connect the whimsy of the book with a spectacular hot air balloon festival.
Read “If You Give a Cat a Cupcake” and then savor a cupcake from a local bakery.
In this delightful story, when a little girl and her cat spill sprinkles, it sparks a series of whimsical adventures starting with a trip to the beach and continuing through other popular summer destinations. After enjoying this fun tale, treat the kids to a visit to a local bakery as a sweet celebration of summer.
