Spring Break in Des Moines: 15 Fun Things to Do for a Staycation
Not traveling for spring break this year? You’re not alone. Many families, including my own, are choosing to stay close to home, and the good news is there are plenty of ways to make a Des Moines spring break staycation a lot of fun!
Whether you’re looking for something active, creative, or just a fun place to hang out for the day, the Des Moines area offers plenty of options. Below are events happening during spring break week plus indoor activities that are perfect for colder weather.
Spring Break Week 2026 Events in Des Moines
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
One of the most festive days of the year in Des Moines is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This event brings energy to the streets of downtown with marching bands, groups, dancers and lots and lots of green.
Date: Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Time: 12:00 Noon
Route: The parade begins at Robert D. Ray Drive and Grand Avenue then moves west on Grand Avenue through downtown toward 7th Street. Streets around the route may close earlier in the morning, so it is a good idea to arrive early for the best spots.
It’s supposed to be cold so be sure to dress warm!
I haven’t made it to the Des Moines St. Patrick’s Day Parade yet, but last year our family caught part of a huge St. Patrick’s Day parade in Savannah, Georgia. I was blown away by how many people showed up and everyone at our hotel was talking about it! It looked like such a fun time, and I’m sure the Des Moines parade is just as lively.
St. Paddy’s Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K
The only time I run is if I’m being chased by a bear.
But if your family enjoys running, the St. Paddy’s Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K take place on Saturday, March 14th near the Iowa State Capitol. It is a lively way to start spring break with runners of all ages and abilities.
I’ll be cheering you on from the sidelines just like I did for this class of 2024 track and cross country runner!
Spring Arts and Crafts Show
The Spring Arts and Crafts Show runs March 13 through March 15 in the Varied Industries Building at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. With more than 250 exhibitors, this event is a fun place to walk around, shop unique items, and find local art, jewelry, home goods, clothing and handmade items.
Broadway Musical at the Civic Center
A touring production of the classic Broadway musical The Music Man will be at the Des Moines Civic Center during the final weekend of spring break.
Dates and Times
Friday, March 20 at 7:00 PM
Saturday, March 21 at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM
Sunday, March 22 at 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM
This musical is a family friendly show with well-known songs like “Seventy-Six Trombones” that many teens enjoy.
It wouldn’t surprise me at all to see this class of 2025 senior in a Broadway show someday!
Concerts During Spring Break 2026 in des moines
There are several live music events around town during spring break week.
At Vibrant Music Hall in Waukee on March 14th, country-rock artist Sam Barber is performing live music in the evening.
At Val Air Ballroom on March 15, Christian music artist Josiah Queen will be in concert. My boys and I love singing along to his song “Can’t Steal My Joy” on the way to school. Actually, I’m the only one who sings it in the van but sometimes they sing it on chapel days at school!
The Des Moines Symphony presents Reflection: Smetana and Beethoven with concerts on March 14 at 7:30 PM and March 15 at 2:30 PM at the Des Moines Civic Center.
These concerts provide a fun evening activity for families and older teens who enjoy live music. And this class of 2024 senior below is an amazing pianist and opera singer!
Jurassic Quest Dinosaur Experience
If you have dinosaur fans young or old in your family, this traveling exhibit is coming to the Iowa Events Center during the first weekend of spring break in Des Moines!
You’ll walk through displays of life sized dinosaurs, see fossils, ride animatronic dinosaurs, and participate in various interactive activities. The exhibit includes more than 80 dinosaur displays and hands on experiences, with tickets starting at $23.
Dates: March 13 to March 15, 2026
Location: Iowa Events Center
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden – “Dome After Dark”
Several special nights during spring break (including March 14 and March 17–19, 2026) where the tropical conservatory is illuminated at night with music and refreshments. It’s a relaxed evening experience that feels a little different than a typical museum visit!
Activities Teens Will Love
Go Kart Racing
K1 Speed Des Moines
My husband and teen boys just went to K1 for the first time last month and I’m sure it won’t be their last, they had an absolute blast! These electric karts are FAST (a little too fast for this mama - it’s an adrenaline rush I don’t need), and allow you to race on a professional indoor track. Go with your family or a group of friends to compete for the fastest lap times.
This class of 2026 senior loves his car and would likely love go-karting at K1!
Indoor Rock Climbing
Climb Iowa Grimes
Indoor climbing is both active and social. Beginners can learn basic climbing skills and more experienced climbers can challenge themselves on harder walls. This is a great way to burn energy and have fun indoors when the weather is cold.
Trampoline Parks
Trampoline parks are a Spring Break favorite, and it’s one of our boys’ favorite things to do with friends. These parks have obstacle courses, foam pits and open jump areas.
Popular options include:
Sky Zone in Grimes
Get Air Trampoline Park in Urbandale
Urban Air Adventure Park in Ankeny
All Weather Tubing and Outdoor Fun
For outdoor fun that works even if there is no snow, check out Sleepy Hollow Sports Park on the east side of Des Moines, featuring a 600‑foot all‑weather tubing hill where you can ride down on tubes and catch a lift back up to do it again. It is open most days in the spring and regularly offers seasonal activities and special events during spring break.
Depending on the schedule they sometimes allow skiing or snowboarding on the synthetic hill too, so it is worth checking the park calendar before you go. Although downhill ski resorts near Ames like Seven Oaks offer snow fun in the winter, they are closed for the remaining winter season, so Sleepy Hollow is your best option for an outdoor downhill experience during spring break.
Games and Hangouts
These indoor spots are perfect for groups and families:
Smash Park West Des Moines offers games, yard games, pickleball and great food!
Dave and Buster’s West Des Moines has lots of arcade games that kids and teens (and even adults!) enjoy, as well as a sit-down dining experience for a great afternoon or evening activity.
Spare Time in West Des Moines has bowling, laser tag and arcade games. This is another favorite spot that our teen boys really like.
Indoor Mini Golf
The Fat Putter - Downtown Des Moines
An indoor mini golf experience with creative themed holes. Hours are typically Monday through Thursday 10 AM to 10 PM, Friday and Saturday until late, and Sunday 10 AM to 9 PM. Note that The Fat Putter becomes 21+ after 6 PM, so plan daytime visits for kids and teens.
Putts & Pins - West Des Moines
Near Jordan Creek Town Center, Putts & Pins features themed indoor minigolf with digital scoring. Hours vary by day and are generally mid morning to evening. It’s the perfect activity for a cold day when you want playful competition indoors.
Roller Skating
I LOVED roller skating as a kid! We had an unfinished basement in our house growing up, so my sister and I would put our skates on and skate for HOURS in the basement, but having a special trip to the skating rink was even more fun and always something to look forward to.
Check open skate times at local rinks such as Skate South and Skate North in Des Moines. These venues usually offer public skate sessions and music nights that teens enjoy.
Axe Throwing
Ironside Axe Club in West Des Moines provides instruction and space to try axe throwing safely. Many teens enjoy this unique activity that feels a little different from standard spring break fun.
Bonus tip
Don’t forget about free outdoor activities too! If the weather cooperates, these are great places to bike, walk the trails, or just enjoy the sites.
Principal Riverwalk
The Riverwalk connects many of downtown’s best spots and is excellent for walking, biking or scooters with friends. You can make a day of it by exploring nearby shops and cafes. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to do a lot of walking!
Gray’s Lake Park
Gray’s Lake Park has a scenic walking trail around the water. It is one of the best places to enjoy a sunset or take photos.
MacRae Park
MacRae Park offers one of the best skyline views in the metro from its overlook. This can be a quick stop or part of a larger outdoor adventure, and also makes a great location for high school senior or family photos.
Best Spring Break Activities in Des Moines For Families
Spring break in Des Moines can be a lot of fun without leaving town! Whether you are watching the parade, exploring a museum, or racing go karts, there is something for every teen and family member. If the weather is chilly, indoor activities like trampoline parks, climbing gyms, concerts and creative classes make it easy to fill your week with fun and laughter.
Enjoy your Spring Break right here in Des Moines!
Looking for more ways to make memories with your family? I’d love to connect! I’m a Des Moines area photographer specializing in high school senior and family portraits, and I’d be happy to chat about what a session could look like for you.
If you’ve been thinking about booking a session for your family or your soon-to-be high school senior, let’s have a conversation. It’s a great way to see if I’m the right fit for you and your family. Reach out today to learn more!
