Experience · Des Moines

Downtown Science & Playground Fun

Dive into the wonders of science with interactive exhibits perfect for all ages at the Science Center of Iowa. Afterward, enjoy a casual and family-friendly meal, and then let the kids burn off some energy at a nearby park.

A 4-hour Des Moines afternoon plan for families — Science Center of Iowa, Buzzard Billy’s, Ashley Okland Star Playground.

Duration: 4 hrs
Cost: $40–$80
Stops: 3 stops
Area: Downtown Des Moines + 1 more
Walking: Moderate walking · Total 4.5-mile driving route
Best time: 12:00 – 5:00 PM
Ideal for: Families · Kids · Solo · Adults

Start Plan

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The plan

1Science Center of Iowa(2 hrs)→
2Buzzard Billy’s(1 hr 15 min)→
3Ashley Okland Star Playground(45 min)

Why this plan works

The 3 stops cover about 4.5 miles total, which keeps you in one pocket of Des Moines instead of crossing town between them. Science Center of Iowa is the main event and takes the biggest block of time; the other stops are built around it. It finishes at Ashley Okland Star Playground — a short, low-effort stop you can skip if you're ready to call it. Best suited to families, families with kids, solo, and adults who want a planned Des Moines outing without improvising between stops.

The story

The itinerary

3 stops, one great day

1
2 hrs
Science Center of Iowa
Arts & Culture · Downtown Des Moines
Science-focused interactive galleries & learning labs plus a planetarium & IMAX cinema.
What to do — Engage with hands-on exhibits, catch a planetarium show, or experience the IMAX cinema. Allow plenty of time for exploration and discovery.
Scout Side Quest
Spot an exhibit that looks like it belongs in the year 3000. Decide what silly everyday problem it was invented to solve.
0.5 mi · 10 min walk or 4 min drive
Then Walk a short distance to Buzzard Billy’s for a casual lunch with a view.
2
1h 15m
Buzzard Billy’s
Food & Drink · Downtown Des Moines
Roomy, laid-back eatery featuring food with Louisiana roots, TVs to catch the game & a deck.
What to do — Settle in for lunch and try some of their flavorful dishes. The casual setting makes it easy for families with kids.
4 mi · 12 min drive
Then A short drive will take you to Ashley Okland Star Playground for some outdoor fun.
3
Optional 45 min
Ashley Okland Star Playground
Family · Bloomfield/Allen
What to do — Enjoy some unstructured playtime at this unique, accessible playground. It's a great way for children to burn off energy before heading home.
Scout Side Quest
Pick the most colorful play structure and give it an over-the-top superhero obstacle course name.

Scout Stories

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The route

On the map

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Common questions

Planning this outing

Is this a good Des Moines itinerary for families?: Yes. It's built for families, families with kids, solo, and adults and runs about 4 hrs across 3 stops, starting at Science Center of Iowa.
How long does this outing take?: Plan on 4 hrs door to door, including time between stops.
How much does this Des Moines itinerary cost?: Roughly $40–$80 per person, before parking and tips. Free and low-cost stops are marked on each card.
Is this itinerary walkable?: Not entirely. The stops cover about 4.5 miles, so you'll drive or rideshare between at least one pair.
Do I need reservations?: No. Every stop on this plan takes walk-ins, though weekends move faster if you arrive early.

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