When Iowa's summer heat turns the great outdoors into the great "I'll-pass," Des Moines has your back with enough air-conditioned adventures to keep you busy until the next polar vortex rolls through. Whether you're dodging triple-digit heat indices or just prefer your entertainment served with a side of climate control, these indoor escapes prove that sometimes the best adventures happen under a roof.
Des Moines Art Center | Free culture fix
Tucked away in Greenwood Park, this architectural trifecta designed by Eliel Saarinen, I.M. Pei, and Richard Meier houses an impressive collection that punches well above its Midwest weight class. The best part? Admission is always free, making it the perfect escape for art lovers and cheapskates alike.
You'll find works by Edward Hopper, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Andy Warhol scattered throughout the galleries, but the real star might be the building itself. The I.M. Pei addition in particular will have you questioning whether you're inside or outside, which is exactly the kind of existential crisis you need when it's 95 degrees with 80% humidity.
Don't miss the sculpture garden if you're feeling brave enough to venture outside for a few minutes. The rose garden is particularly stunning in summer. Plan your free visit and check current exhibitions.
Science Center of Iowa | Hands-on cool
Located in downtown Des Moines, this 110,000-square-foot playground for curious minds offers the perfect excuse to act like a kid while learning something. At $17 for adults and kids (seniors get a $2 discount), it's a small price to pay for hours of interactive exhibits, live science demonstrations, and a 50-foot planetarium that'll make you forget all about the blazing sun outside.
The rotating exhibits keep things fresh, and with over 150 interactive experiences, even the most screen-addicted kids will find something to capture their attention. Pro tip: schools typically clear out by 2 p.m., so afternoon visits tend to be less chaotic. Open Thursday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
If you're rolling with a crew on SNAP, WIC, or Medicaid, flash that EBT card for $5 admission per person. Reserve your tickets in advance to guarantee entry.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden | Tropical escape downtown
Who needs a vacation to the tropics when you can get your humidity fix right here in Des Moines? The Botanical Garden's massive geodesic dome maintains a balmy paradise year-round, housing over 1,000 tropical specimens that thrive while you're trying not to melt outside.
This 12-acre urban oasis along the Des Moines River offers both indoor and outdoor gardens, but let's be real – in July, you'll want to stick to the climate-controlled conservatory. Admission runs $12 for adults, $11 for seniors and military, $9 for kids, with little ones under 2 getting in free. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended summer hours on Tuesdays until 7 p.m.
The living wall inside the dome changes throughout the year, giving you a reason to return even after you've memorized every orchid. Members and EBT cardholders get free admission, making this one of the best deals in town for a quick mental vacation. Check out current exhibitions and special events.
Climb Iowa | Vertical air conditioning
When the heat has you feeling low, why not go high? Climb Iowa's Grimes location boasts 10,000 square feet of climbing surface with walls reaching up to 36 feet. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned spider monkey, their friendly staff will help you find your grip.
Day passes run $15, with harness rental at $4 if you didn't pack your own. They've got everything from beginner-friendly routes to challenges that'll have you questioning your life choices. The East Village location focuses on bouldering if you prefer your climbing adventures closer to the ground.
Birthday parties here are legendary – nothing says "happy birthday" quite like watching your friends dangle 35 feet in the air. Plus, they offer youth programs and camps for kids who need to burn energy in a way that won't destroy your living room. Book your climbing adventure and check class schedules.
Monsterama Arcade | Horror meets high scores
Located on Des Moines' south side, this horror-themed arcade and pizzeria proves that nightmares and nachos make perfect companions. For just $10.99 ($12 for adults on weekends), you get unlimited play on over 60 classic arcade games and pinball machines, all decked out in spooky splendor.
The walls are plastered with vintage horror movie posters and creepy decorations, including a massive gorilla hand hanging over the register. Despite the macabre theme, it's totally family-friendly – think Scooby-Doo scary. Through a "secret" doorway (we won't spoil it), you'll find an arcade bigger than the dining area.
Their menu goes beyond typical arcade fare, with house-made pizzas, loaded hot dogs, and creative calzones. The Chicago dog is legit, featuring a quarter-pound frank dressed properly with all the fixings. Open daily, but check their social media for exact hours. Plan your monstrous visit and see the full menu.
Des Moines Public Library | Literary chill zone
Sometimes the best escape is between the pages of a book, and the Des Moines Public Library system offers six locations of blissful, free air conditioning. The Central Library on Grand Avenue is an architectural gem with an upstairs perfect for those seeking serious quiet time.
Beyond books, all locations offer free Wi-Fi, computer access, and various programs throughout the summer. The Central Library even has a Digital Creation Station loaded with Adobe programs for your creative projects.
Pro tip: parking in Central's underground garage is free for two hours, and the children's areas have AWE computers to keep little ones entertained while you browse. Some locations even have community fridges, because knowledge and snacks go hand in hand. Find your nearest location and check out summer programs.
Putts & Pins | Retro gaming paradise
This West Des Moines hot spot brings '80s and '90s rock culture back to life with gamified mini golf, duckpin bowling, and enough neon to make your retinas sing. The two 9-hole mini golf courses feature automated scoring with points for trick shots and trivia – because regular mini golf is so last century.
Mini golf runs $13 for one course or $24 for both, while duckpin bowling (with smaller pins and balls) costs $49.50 per hour per lane. The full arcade includes billiards, shuffleboard, and vintage games, all within stumbling distance of their full bar.
Their elevated American comfort food menu features cleverly named dishes like "Not Your Canned Spaghetti O's" and "Do Anything For Love Meat Loaf." The private "Backstage" event space even has its own mini golf course and bowling lanes for when you need to escape the escapists. Check out their menu and reserve your tee time.
Smash Park | Pickleball palace
Where else can you play America's fastest-growing sport, throw axes at a wall, and demolish loaded nachos all under one roof? Smash Park in West Des Moines delivers on its promise of "eatertainment" with six pickleball courts (four indoor, two outdoor), plus every yard game imaginable.
Court rentals vary by time and day, starting at $24/hour on weekday mornings and topping out at $40/hour on weekends. But the real draw might be Iowa's largest patio and a 30-foot TV wall for when you need to watch the game while playing games. Their arcade is free on Sundays, making it the perfect place for your weekly dose of family bonding or friendly competition.
The scratch-made menu goes way beyond bar food, and their craft cocktail selection will make you forget you came for the pickleball. They even have certified instructors if you want to up your game. Reserve your court and join the pickleball revolution.
Spare Time Entertainment | Everything under one roof
This West Des Moines mega-venue packs luxury bowling lanes, a massive arcade, laser tag, and escape rooms into one location near Jordan Creek. It's basically a one-stop shop for family fun when the weather outside is frightful (or frighteningly hot).
They run different specials throughout the week, and their restaurant serves up more than just bowling alley nachos. Multiple bars throughout the venue mean adults can enjoy a cold one while kids burn through arcade credits. Note: they're cashless, so load up a Spare Time card at the kiosks near the entrance.
The venue regularly hosts events and leagues, so whether you're looking for a casual afternoon or serious competition, they've got lanes with your name on them. Check their specials and plan your visit.
Great Escape | Pleasant Hill party central
Don't let the Pleasant Hill address fool you – this locally owned entertainment center is worth the drive. With 24 bowling lanes, laser tag, and an arcade featuring over 55 games, it's got enough variety to keep even the pickiest family members happy.
Their Night Strike unlimited bowling special runs just $14.99 on weeknights, and kids under 13 bowl free with their summer program. The arcade offers incredible deals too, like two hours of play for $15 Sunday through Thursday. Wednesday is half-price arcade day, essentially doubling your play time.
The laser tag arena provides heart-pumping action for just $7, perfect for wearing out energetic kids (or competitive adults). Their full restaurant and bar means you can make a whole day of it without ever stepping into the heat. Reserve your lanes and check out weekly specials.
The Fat Putter | Downtown mini golf madness
This isn't your grandfather's putt-putt. Located in downtown Des Moines, The Fat Putter combines outrageous mini golf with a full cocktail bar and a shiny new arcade. It's date night meets family fun meets "why didn't we think of this sooner?"
The course features creative obstacles and challenges that'll have you laughing whether you're winning or losing. The cocktail menu is as creative as the course design, perfect for adults who want to add a little liquid courage to their putting game. Last tee time is 15 minutes before closing, so plan accordingly.
Pro tip: Mondays often feature discounted rates, making it the perfect start to your week. The downtown location means you can easily combo this with dinner at one of the East Village's many restaurants. Tee up your visit and check hours.
Beat the heat like a pro
Time your visits strategically. Hit museums and libraries in the morning for smaller crowds, and save entertainment venues for evenings when they often run better deals and specials.
Invest in memberships. Many venues offer membership programs that pay for themselves after just a few visits – especially worth it if you're escaping the heat all summer long.
Follow venues on social media**.** Des Moines venues frequently post flash deals, themed nights, and surprise promotions on their social channels that you won't find elsewhere.
Buy passes in spring**. **Score early bird discounts by purchasing summer passes and memberships during spring before the heat (and demand) kicks in.
Always verify hours before going.** **Summer schedules can vary significantly, so call ahead or check websites to avoid showing up when venues are closed or have special events.
