Your 2026 Summer Bucket List: 10 Must-Do Experiences in Des Moines
Summer in Des Moines is filled with lots of opportunities to get outside, explore local favorites, and make lasting memories. Whether you're planning family adventures, date nights, or solo excursions, here are 10 experiences to add to your 2026 summer bucket list.
1. Wander the Downtown Farmers’ Market
Start your Saturday morning strolling through one of the nation’s premier farmers markets. Browse fresh produce, handmade goods, local coffee, baked treats, and unique artisan products while enjoying the energy of downtown. The 2026 Farmers' market season runs Saturdays May 2nd through October 31st, with hours from 7am-noon located in the Downtown Des Moines’ Historic Court District.
2. Spend an Evening at Jasper Winery
Bring lawn chairs or a blanket and enjoy live music under the Iowa sky. Summer concerts at Jasper Winery have become a favorite tradition for locals.
3. Explore Gray’s Lake
Rent a paddle boat, bike the trail, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk around the water. Sunset at Gray’s Lake is one of the city’s hidden gems.
4. Catch an Outdoor Concert
From neighborhood parks to larger venues, summer evenings across the metro are filled with free and ticketed concerts featuring everything from jazz to country music.
5. Visit the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Escape the heat inside tropical conservatories or wander the beautiful outdoor gardens along the riverfront.
6. Bike the High Trestle Trail
One of Iowa’s most iconic rides features miles of scenic paths and the famous illuminated bridge that’s especially stunning after dark.
7. Cheer on the Iowa Cubs
Nothing says summer quite like baseball, hotdogs, and fireworks. Grab tickets and enjoy a game at Principal Park. If you go on a Friday night, you can also catch a firework or drone show!
8. Attend the Iowa State Fair
No Iowa summer bucket list is complete without a visit to the State Fair. From giant food creations and livestock exhibits, to concerts and the iconic butter cow, the fair remains one of the state’s signature experiences. The Grandstand performances are also some of the best in the country.
9. Dinner on the water at Saylorville Lake Marina.
Soggy Frog is a new marina bar and rooftop restaurant at Saylorville Lake Marina in Polk City. Enjoy lunch, dinner, drinks, lake views, and live music in a casual waterfront setting just outside Des Moines. Whether you’re coming off the boat, meeting friends, or looking for a fun place to eat near the lake, The Soggy Frog is your next summer stop.
10. Cool Off with Local Ice Cream
Treat yourself to a classic Iowa summer favorite by stopping at one of the metro’s beloved ice cream shops after a day of exploring. Personal favorites are Home Sweet Cone and the Waukee Ice Cream Shop.
Make This Summer Count
You don’t have to travel far to create unforgettable memories. Some of the best experiences are right here in Central Iowa—from lively festivals and outdoor concerts to peaceful trails and neighborhood favorites.
Challenge yourself to check off every item on this list before autumn arrives, and you’ll discover why summer in Des Moines continues to be one of the best seasons to explore the city.