10 TOP Things to Do in Central Iowa February 2026

Iowa State University which includes a lake or waterhole and heritage architecture

Reiman Gardens featuring signage and a park as well as a family

Iowa State Capitol Building which includes heritage architecture and a garden

Reiman Gardens which includes a park and wild flowers

Central Iowa Attractions

Let Expedia help you to experience the best that Central Iowa has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to Central Iowa, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to Central Iowa with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Places of interest in Central Iowa

Central Iowa is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in Central Iowa, and make it a breeze to explore Central Iowa and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Central Iowa to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit to Central Iowa, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in Central Iowa.

Central Iowa attractions

Central Iowa has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in Central Iowa to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Central Iowa.

Looking for things to do in Central Iowa can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of Central Iowa or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Central Iowa attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails!

Explore activities
Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
Book with ease
Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
Treat yourself
One Key members save % or more on select activities, hotels, cars and holiday rentals.
Learn about One Key

Recommended things to do in Central Iowa

Number of things to do	3
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	Astounding Art Walk in Des Moines Experience: £12
Top 5 things to do	Des Moines Scavenger Hunt Interactive Walking Tour Astounding Art Walk in Des Moines Experience An Epic Scavenger Hunt : Adventures in Des Moines
Half-day tours	Des Moines Scavenger Hunt Interactive Walking Tour Astounding Art Walk in Des Moines Experience An Epic Scavenger Hunt : Adventures in Des Moines
With kids	Astounding Art Walk in Des Moines Experience An Epic Scavenger Hunt : Adventures in Des Moines

What to do in Central Iowa

Popular places to visit

Iowa State University

Visit this public university to learn about its agricultural history and explore the many museums and cultural centers on the campus.

Jordan Creek Town Center

You can do some window-shopping at Jordan Creek Town Center during your visit to West Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene or attend a sporting event.

Aerial View of the Iowa State Fair in the Des Moines Metro Area

Iowa State Fairgrounds

5/5(1 review)

Enjoy an outing to Iowa State Fairgrounds during your stay in Des Moines. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene or attend a sporting event.

Iowa Events Center

Learn about the events happening in Iowa Events Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and acclaimed theatre scene.

Iowa State Capitol Building

5/5(1 review)

A city landmark, this interesting building showcases design and architectural features that created a grand impression in the late 1800s and still inspire today.

University of Northern Iowa

Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Northern Iowa during your trip to Cedar Falls. Discover the beautiful waterfalls in this family-friendly area.

Principal Park

Catch an event at Principal Park during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's great live music and acclaimed theatre scene.

Casey's Center

Catch an event at Casey's Center during your trip to Des Moines. Experience the area's lively festivals and acclaimed theatre scene.

Adventureland

Bring the family to Adventureland and enjoy this exciting theme park in Altoona. Experience the area's lively festivals and great live music.

Explore areas of Central Iowa

State Historical Society of Iowa Museum which includes a high-rise building, landscape views and a city

Downtown Des Moines

4/5(1 area review)

The abundant dining options and live music are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Des Moines. A stop by 801 Grand or Des Moines Civic Center might round out your trip.

View into downtown from the Capitol Building.

#capitol #desmoines #city #downtown

Court District

Travellers come to Court District for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Science Center of Iowa and Principal Park while you're in town.

Historic East Village

Find beautiful government buildings, cultural attractions and a garden oasis in this older section of the city extending along a pretty riverfront.

Checked out the Mars Cafe in Des Moines, IA. Great spot with good seating, wifi, and a pretty good latte. Nice flavor to the espresso. A good spot for a light lunch wit good sandwiches.

If I have to be in Iowa it's nice to find a good coffee joint.

Drake

While visiting Drake, you might make a stop by sights like Knapp Center and Des Moines Community Playhouse.

Greater South Side

While there might not be top attractions in Greater South Side, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Air Lanes Bowling Center and Gray’s Lake Park.

Western Gateway

While visiting Western Gateway, you might make a stop by sights like John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park and Pappajohn Sculpture Park.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

What to do in Central Iowa, IA

Activities, attractions and tours

Central Iowa Attractions

Places of interest in Central Iowa

Central Iowa attractions

Explore activities

Book with ease

Treat yourself

The Annual Holiday Sale