Iowa Kid Friendly Destinations

[AgronAlum]

My 5 year old son and I have the day to ourselves most Saturdays and we're running out of things to do locally. We also like to get on the road and try new things and see new places. Does anybody have recommendations within about a 2 or 2.5 hour radius from the DM area? Indoor, outdoor, free, expensive, it really doesn't matter much. He's not one to sit still so the more hands on and active, usually the better.

 

[wxman1]

My 5 year old son and I have the day to ourselves most Saturdays and we're running out of things to do locally. We also like to get on the road and try new things and see new places. Does anybody have recommendations within about a 2 or 2.5 hour radius from the DM area? Indoor, outdoor, free, expensive, it really doesn't matter much. He's not one to sit still so the more hands on and active, usually the better.

I have heard good things about the Iowa Children's Museum at Coralridge.

 

[carvers4math]

Have you been to the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge? My kids always liked that. Could also check out Goldie's in Prairie City for a tenderloin and ice cream.

 

[carvers4math]

You could also check out tulip time in Pella, and take a trail at Lake Red Rock. Pretty easy place to see bald eagles. They also have special events there like various nature hikes, and some trails you could bike.

 

[NWICY]

Butterfly room at Reiman Gardens?

 

[carvers4math]

Not sure if he is into trains or planes. but the Boone & Scenic Valley Railway or the Aviation Museum in Greenfield might fit an interest.

 

[Tornado man]

Lost Island Waterpark - on Hwy 20 south of Waterloo - by the Isle Casino. Open every Fri - Sat - Sun in May. Tremendous fun.

 

[AgronAlum]

These are all great suggestions everyone. I completely forgot about most of these, especially the train rides in Boone. He's going to absolutely love that one. Looks like we have to wait until May though. I think tomorrow it might be Neil Smith or Red Rock since it will be nice out.

 

[carvers4math]

If you go to the movie at JTS in May, you might also run up to the carousel in Story City.

 

[lakeliving]

My 5 year old son and I have the day to ourselves most Saturdays and we're running out of things to do locally. We also like to get on the road and try new things and see new places. Does anybody have recommendations within about a 2 or 2.5 hour radius from the DM area? Indoor, outdoor, free, expensive, it really doesn't matter much. He's not one to sit still so the more hands on and active, usually the better.

Great job out of you for all of that time with your son! I am sure it will be time that both of you will look back on with fond memories!!
Boone Ledges area is also a fun area while visiting the railroad in Boone.

 

[psyclone51]

If he likes trains - and what little boy doesn't - don't forget Trainland USA in Coalfax, east of DSM.

 

[psyclone51]

Another thought that is a little off the wall, but would he be interested in riding the bus. My wife takes her 3 year old grandson and he just loves to ride a full circuit - and the bus driver thinks its pretty cool too!

 

[psycln11]

Omaha Zoo
Strategic Air and Space Museum, Omaha
Train museum in Omaha
Adventureland
Sky Zone
Jester Park
I-cubs

 

[GoClone]

A little known gem in Algona, Iowa at the Kossuth County Fairgrounds, is their relatively new Ag and motorsports museum. It is filled with Ag tools and equipment from prior generations, restored tractors, race cars, a huge model train display, and the Harold Sonnenberg art collection (think Terry Redlyn of historical Ag scenes).

There is also the POW museum uptown, Both of these museums are open on weekend afternoons starting in April and were less than five dollars per person to get into.

There is also the Grotto in West Bend. Anyone that goes to the Grotto should check out the church south of the Grotto and watch some of the construction videos.

 

[Cyclone.TV]

I take mine to Hooters in Davenport every so often.

 

[CycloneNorth]

I always enjoyed going to Prarie Meadows Casinos as a kid.

 

[Cybirdy]

In the summer you could check out county fairs. The Franklin County Fair is about 90min from Des Moines, free parking and free admission, third week in July.