Try DSM: Winter Activities

When you live in Greater Des Moines (DSM), you get to experience all four of the seasons, meaning the colder months are full of wintery excitement! Whether you’re looking for an evening of ice skating or an afternoon on the cross-country ski trail, DSM is the place to be in the winter. Check out this itinerary for trying DSM in the winter. 

Hotel Pick: Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - JohnstonChairs are surrounding the pool and at the back, there is small opening where swimmers can swim through to get outside.

Stoney Creek Hotel in the DSM suburb of Johnston offers rustic charm that will keep you feeling warm and cozy during your stay. Interested in taking a dip in the pool? Stoney Creek provides a heated pool that can be utilized indoors and outdoors (yes, you can swim outside in the winter). Guests appreciate the amenities offered here such as fireplaces, a bar with a full selection and more.  

Friday

  • After checking into your hotel, start your night off in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) with some delicious food at Clyde’s Fine Diner in Historic East Village. Make sure to plan ahead and make reservations as this restaurant is a favorite among the locals and was a semi-finalist for one of the best restaurants in the country by USA Today in 2024.  Group ice skating at night in Downtown DSM
    • Once you’ve had your fill from Clyde’s, make your way over to Brenton Skating Plaza, just a block away, for outdoor ice skating in the heart of Downtown DSM. This skating facility is open November – March for all ages and is located along the Des Moines River offering the perfect photo backdrop.  
    • Finish the night off with a tiki themed drink at Bellhop or warm up with a sweet treat from Cinnaholic. More of a beer person? The Iowa Taproom is just a few blocks south from the skating plaza and offers a variety of Iowa craft brews.  

    Saturday

    • If you’re going to spend the day cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, you need to eat a hearty breakfast! Head northwest to Ankeny for a breakfast full of vibrant colors, unique foods and good service at Early Bird.  Painted wall at Early Bird that says "Brunch, this was a good idea."
    • Jester Park, northeast of DSM, has 6.1 miles of trails available for cross-country skiing (as long as there’s at least 6 inches of snow on the ground) and offers ski and snowshoe rentals. Their cross-country ski trails will lead you through the woods, near a golf course and close to Saylorville Lake. For those looking for a flat trail, Jester Park offers that as well! The flat trails can be found at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt. Looking to snowshoe? Jester Park recommends their Hickory Ridge Trail.  
    • Once you’ve had your fun in the snow, take some time to relax and rejuvenate at Stoney Creek’s pool and hot tub. When it’s time to eat, head to Backpocket Pin & Pixel, also located in Johnston, for food and games!  

    Sunday

    • Enjoy a leisurely Sunday at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and be swept away to a tropical paradise. The Botanical Garden keeps a warm climate no matter the season so you can enjoy the beauty of nature. After you explore, have lunch at Flora, the Botanical Garden’s onsite restaurant. 

    Other Options for Your Des Moines Visit

    A woman pushing man and child on a sled down a hill.
    • If you're a hockey fan, check out the Iowa Wild schedule and take your pick on which game you want to watch live in Downtown DSM. 
    • Sledding in Greater DSM is always a good idea when there's snow on the ground. Bundle up and hit these favorite sledding spots. 
    • If the ice is thick enough, go fishing at Big Creek State Park northwest of DSM.

    Find Your Community. Do Something Greater.

    Greater Des Moines (DSM) is full of ways to connect with other local winter activity enthusiasts. Find your community here and get connected!