Des Moines, Iowa: 10 Best Short Day Trips
10 Easy Road Trips from Des Moines, Iowa for a Fun Day Out
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| From scenic rail rides and Pella’s Dutch charm to covered bridges and lakeside escapes, these easy day trips from Des Moines turn a free day into an adventure. |
If you're in Des Moines, Iowa and feeling the itch to get out of town, you're in a great spot for a quick escape. One of the best things about living in or visiting Des Moines in Polk County is how many fun day trips and nearby getaways are just a short drive away. You do not need a big budget or a full vacation week either. Sometimes all it takes is a tank of gas, a good playlist, and a free Saturday.
This list focuses on short out-of-county road trips near Des Moines, all in surrounding counties like Boone, Dallas, Jasper, Madison, Marion, Story, and Warren. So if you're searching for things to do near Des Moines, Iowa, here are 10 easy ideas for your next road trip, weekend trip, or same-day adventure.
1. Ride the Rails at the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad Museum
County: Boone County
Drive from Des Moines: About 50 minutes
If you love old trains or just want something different, this is a fun pick. The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad offers scenic rides through the countryside, and the experience feels a little like stepping into another time. Crossing the high railroad bridge is a highlight, and kids usually think it's the best part of the whole day.
I've always thought train rides make a road trip feel like two adventures in one. You drive there, then you slow down and let the views come to you.
- Great for families and train fans
- Beautiful rural Iowa views
- Easy to pair with lunch in Boone
2. Explore Ledges State Park
County: Boone County
Drive from Des Moines: Around 45 to 50 minutes
Ledges State Park is one of the most popular day trips from Des Moines for a reason. It has sandstone cliffs, wooded trails, and a creek that often flows over the road in the lower canyon area. It feels rugged and peaceful without being too far away.
If you want a nearby getaway with fresh air and pretty views, this is a great option. Bring sturdy shoes, because some trails can get muddy after rain.
- Nice hiking for all skill levels
- Good picnic spots
- Especially pretty in fall
3. Sip and Stroll at Wineries Near Winterset
County: Madison County
Drive from Des Moines: About 45 minutes
Madison County makes an easy weekend trip or relaxed day drive from Des Moines. One of the best ways to enjoy it is by stopping at a local winery and taking your time. The rolling hills in this area make the drive itself part of the fun.
If your ideal road trip includes a slow afternoon, scenic views, and a patio drink, this one checks all the boxes. It is the kind of outing that feels simple in the best way.
- Relaxed and scenic atmosphere
- Great for couples or friend groups
- Easy to combine with other Madison County stops
4. See the Covered Bridges of Madison County
County: Madison County
Drive from Des Moines: Around 45 minutes
You can't talk about iconic road trips near Des Moines, Iowa without mentioning the famous covered bridges. These historic bridges are spread around Madison County, and finding them turns the whole day into a little treasure hunt. Even if you're not a history buff, they are charming and photo-worthy.
It is a fun trip if you like drives with lots of stops. Think of it like a real-life postcard route.
- Classic Iowa scenery
- Fun photo opportunities
- Perfect for a relaxed drive
5. Wander Through Pella’s Historic Downtown
County: Marion County
Drive from Des Moines: About 50 minutes
Pella has one of the most charming downtown areas near Des Moines. The Dutch-style buildings, bakeries, shops, and brick streets make it feel different from your average small town. If you like places with personality, this is a winner.
Grab a pastry, walk around the square, and enjoy a slower pace for a few hours. Sometimes the best day trip is not packed with activities. Sometimes it is just about being somewhere that feels special.
- Cute downtown for walking
- Great local food and sweets
- Fun shopping and sightseeing
6. Visit the Vermeer Windmill in Pella
County: Marion County
Drive from Des Moines: About 50 minutes
While you're in Pella, the Vermeer Windmill is worth its own stop. It is one of the tallest working grain windmills in the country, and it gives the town its signature look. The whole area around it feels polished, pretty, and easy to explore.
If you've never seen a windmill up close, it is surprisingly impressive. It towers over the area in a way that makes you stop and stare for a second.
- One of the most iconic sights near Des Moines
- Good stop for photos
- Easy to visit with downtown Pella
7. Hike or Bike at Lake Red Rock
County: Marion County
Drive from Des Moines: About 1 hour
Lake Red Rock is a favorite nearby getaway from Des Moines if you want more space to roam. It is the largest lake in Iowa, and the area offers trails, overlooks, birdwatching spots, and water views that feel like a mini vacation.
Bring a cooler and make a full day of it. This is one of those places where the sky looks extra wide, and the open scenery helps you reset.
- Great for hiking, biking, and picnics
- Plenty of outdoor space
- Good fit for active travelers
8. Discover Iowa Speedway in Newton
County: Jasper County
Drive from Des Moines: Around 40 minutes
If you want a fast-paced day trip, head to Newton and check out Iowa Speedway. For race fans, this is an easy choice. Even if you do not follow motorsports closely, the energy on event days is hard to ignore.
Some trips are all about quiet trails. Others are about noise, motion, and excitement. This one definitely falls into the second group.
- Perfect for motorsports fans
- Unique outing near Des Moines
- Best on event weekends
9. Tour Reiman Gardens in Ames
County: Story County
Drive from Des Moines: About 45 minutes
Reiman Gardens is one of the prettiest short road trips from Des Moines if you want something calm and colorful. The gardens are beautifully designed, and there is usually something in bloom through much of the year. It is an easy place to walk, relax, and take your time.
If your week has been busy, this is the kind of trip that helps you slow down. A garden visit can feel a bit like hitting the reset button.
- Beautiful flowers and themed displays
- Good for couples, solo travelers, and families
- Lovely in spring and summer
10. Step Into Small-Town History at the John Wayne Birthplace Museum
County: Madison County
Drive from Des Moines: About 45 minutes
Winterset is home to the John Wayne Birthplace Museum, which draws visitors from all over. If you enjoy movie history, Americana, or unique museums, this is a memorable stop. It adds a little star power to your day trip from Des Moines, Iowa.
Even if you're only casually familiar with John Wayne, the museum offers an interesting look at the life and legacy of a major film icon. It is one more reason Winterset makes such a solid road trip choice.
- Interesting for film and history fans
- Easy to pair with the covered bridges
- A unique small-town museum stop
Final Thoughts on Road Trips Near Des Moines, Iowa
One of the best things about Des Moines, Iowa is that you are never too far from a fun day out. Whether you want hiking, small-town charm, historic sites, gardens, trains, or a scenic drive, there are plenty of things to do near Des Moines without going far at all.
So, where will your next road trip take you? Will you chase covered bridges, stroll through Pella, or spend the day outside at Lake Red Rock? No matter what you pick, these day trips from Des Moines make it easy to turn an ordinary day into something memorable.
If you found this list helpful, share it with a friend who loves a good nearby getaway. And if you have a favorite weekend trip or hidden gem near Des Moines, leave a comment and join the conversation.
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