Catch Des Moines

At Blank Park Zoo, every visit can look a little different. Maybe that means hand-feeding a giraffe with its giant purple tongue inches away from your face. Maybe it’s getting up close with sea lions during a behind-the-scenes training session. Or maybe it’s slowing things down with a laid-back stroll through immersive exhibits, train rides, and hands-on family attractions. 🦁🦭🦒

Whether you’re chasing animal encounters, kid-friendly fun, or unforgettable summer events, Blank Park Zoo makes it easy to make the trip yours.

Learn more: https://www.catchdesmoines.com/blog/stories/post/catch-whats-happening-at-blank-park-zoo-this-summer/

In July's edition of , we're welcoming 15,000 athletes for the AAU Junior Olympic Games, checking out new restaurant expansions across the city, singing along with festivalgoers at Hinterland Music Festival, and more. 🏃🥞🎶

Read it here: https://www.catchdesmoines.com/blog/stories/post/des-buzz-whats-trending-in-des-moines-for-july/

2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, and our metro has something to say about it! All around the area, local businesses, event organizers, and community members are coming together for a variety of events that celebrate this milestone. We’ve put together your guide on where to catch some of the best ones over the next few months, before this monumental year comes to a close.

Know of an event we should add to the list? Drop it in the comments!

America 250 in Greater Des Moines 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, and our metro has something to say about it! All around the area, local businesses, event organizers, and community members are coming together for a variety of events that celebrate this milestone. We’ve put together your guide on ...

Is there any better place to celebrate America than smack dab in the middle of the heartland? We think not. Whether it’s live music, hitting up the pool, or watching fireworks, Greater Des Moines has a little slice of Americana for everyone.

Check out a few ideas below that will ensure your Fourth of July holiday pops off! 🎆🇺🇸

Fourth of July in Greater Des Moines Is there any better place to celebrate America than smack dab in the middle of the heartland? We think not. Whether it’s live music, hitting up the pool, or watching fireworks, Greater DSM has got a little slice of Americana for everyone. Check out these ideas that will assure your Fourth of July ...

Pack your bags for a three-day summer adventure in Des Moines, where only the S’s are silent. Whether it’s the heart pounding thrills at Adventureland Park, the fresh flavors at the Des Moines' Downtown Farmers' Market, or the all-ages adventures at the Iowa State Fair, where everything tastes better on a stick, your sun-soaked itinerary is ready – just add fun! 😎☀️

Plan your summer weekend here: https://www.catchdesmoines.com/things-to-do/itineraries/summer-things-to-do/

"Fly in, not over". Check out the travel writeup on Des Moines from the NY Post, featuring Historic Valley Junction, Des Moines' Downtown Farmers' Market, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and a bunch of our other favorites. Just wait until the new DSM International Airport opens in a few months, making it even easier to fly in!

Fly in — not over: Skip the coasts for these Midwest getaways that deliver big Put yourself right in the middle of the action.

Turn your Iowa State Fair trip into an overnight getaway! 🎡🎟️

The Grandstand Getaway Hotel Package includes a one-night stay at the Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack & Hotel, a $100 Iowa State Fair food voucher, and two Iowa State Fair general admission tickets, all for $309 plus tax.

Book by July 18 by calling 515.957.3000. Availability is limited.

Learn more here: https://www.prairiemeadows.com/grandstand-getaway-hotel-package-?preview=true

Dad deserves a day out too, which is why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on the special events taking place around the Greater Des Moines metro area that honors and celebrates dads of all kinds. Whether he’s an avid golfer, a foodie, a live music fan, or something else entirely, our city is no stranger to celebrating everyone. ❤️

Plan your Father's Day weekend below:

Father's Day in Greater Des Moines Looking for ways to celebrate dad this weekend? Check out all of these events going on around Greater Des Moines for many different ways to enjoy Father’s Day weekend!