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Des Moines Parks and Recreation manages 4,000 acres of land that make up 75 different parks. Because of the city’s year-round work, Des Moines residents have access to a number of beautiful parks, trails and lakes with different activities and types of scenery available. Perhaps you’re tired of spending money on weekends out, maybe you’ve caught a case of cabin fever from studying for hours on end — whatever your reason, these Des Moines parks are just minutes away and waiting to be explored. 

Tour 1: Gray’s Lake

If you like water and a beautiful paved path to walk, then Gray’s Lake should be at the top of your list. Located in the heart of Des Moines off of Fleur Drive and just minutes from both downtown and the airport, this park offers a small beach that is fantastic for a beach day, and almost two-miles of a walking trail that circles the lake with a large bridge that connects the walking path from one side of the lake to the other, which is lit beautifully at night. There are also small boat rentals for the water fanatics, both canoes and paddle boats are available for between $8-$15 an hour. Gray’s Lake is a hidden gem within Des Moines, a great spot for avid runners and casual walkers to get their exercise in and a wonderful choice for a nice lakeside hangout with family or friends. 

Tour 2: Water Works

Another park located just across the street from Gray’s Lake is Water Works Park. This park is a popular destination for prom, engagement and many other photo shoots simply because of the landscape. Going to this park in the spring will maximize your experience as many of the trees located in the park are flowering, but it’s also beautiful in the fall. Not only does this park offer a terrific landscape for photos but also other small complimentary activities for its guests. There are fire pits and grills located throughout the park that are open for public use and fishing is permitted with a valid license. For those who love strolling through nature, chilling out by a fire or fishing, Water Works Park is a great choice. 

Tour 3: Riverwalk

The downtown Riverwalk may not be a park in itself, but it’s still a great way to get out and enjoy the weather after being cramped up at home all day. Just a short 10-minute drive from Grand View’s campus there’s plenty of street parking and sidewalks to get down to the Riverwalk. The beautifully designed Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens with a big pagoda is perfect for a picnic with friends or family, and it’s a walk down the street from popular coffee shops and restaurants, such as Zombie Burger. A short walk in the opposite direction of the restaurants is the Botanical Gardens of Des Moines, which is a taste of paradise indoors. Another attraction along the Riverwalk is the Women’s Achievement bridge, a fairly new addition to the Riverwalk. It has two arching walkways on both sides of the center arch going from one side of the river to the other, connecting the modern East Village to the heart of downtown Des Moines. If walking isn’t an ideal means of getting around, then no worries. There are bicycles available to rent downtown that will provide a faster way to see the sights of Des Moines. While downtown, you can also tour the Papajohn Sculpture Park, an admission-free park with many different styles of sculptures created by various artists, both local and from abroad. The downtown Riverwalk is a terrific choice for sightseers, visitors new to Des Moines and those who just want to spend an afternoon exploring with friends. 

Tour 4: Raccoon River

Raccoon River is another park filled with lots to do. It is located next to the Blue Heron Lake, an over 200 acre lake that has boat ramps, a 225-foot fishing pier, boat rentals and more. No need to fret about getting waked out by bigger boats if you decide to rent a canoe, as the entire lake is a designated no-wake zone. The lake also features several fish habitats underwater, so the chance of catching something is good. Raccoon River also features a 500-foot long beach, which is plenty of room to safely socially distance while getting a nice tan and taking a dip in the water. Other amenities offered in this park include picnic shelters available for rent, a softball and soccer complex, a playground, an ice-skating rink and several walking trails. There is something for everyone to enjoy at Raccoon River. Those who love swimming, boat rentals, sports or a good grill-out will find themselves at home here.