Plan your Des Moines trip
Tell us when you're here. We'll show what's on each day and where to stay near it.
Getting here and around
The airport, DART buses, parking, the skywalk and rideshare.
How to get around Des MoinesTurn this into an itinerary
An AI-written plan for these 3 days, built from the same listings. Part of the Insider and VIP plans.
Ready for the itinerary?
AI itineraries are an Insider feature.
How your itinerary is generated
Your itinerary is generated by an AI model using public information about Des Moines events, restaurants and attractions plus the preferences you share above. AI output may be inaccurate or incomplete, so confirm hours, prices and reservations with each venue before you go. Nothing here is a paid endorsement unless clearly labeled as such.
Trip Planner - Frequently Asked Questions
What the planner does today, and what it doesn't.
How does the trip planner work?
Pick the dates you're in Des Moines. The planner lists the events we have on each of those days, the hotels closest to where those events are, and how to get around. It's free and you don't need an account. Insider and VIP members can also turn those dates into an AI-written day-by-day itinerary.
Is the trip planner free?
The date planner is free for everyone. AI itineraries are part of the Insider and VIP plans; current prices and limits are on the pricing page, and new subscribers may be eligible for a free trial.
What is the best time to visit Des Moines?
Des Moines is good year-round. Summer brings the Iowa State Fair in August, outdoor festivals and the Downtown Farmers' Market. Fall has harvest festivals and foliage. Spring has the Drake Relays in April. Winter has holiday markets, indoor attractions and a long list of restaurants.
How many days should I plan for a Des Moines trip?
Two or three days cover downtown dining, the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, the Science Center of Iowa and the East Village. Plan four or five if you want day trips such as Adventureland or the Bridges of Madison County.
Can I change an AI itinerary after it's made?
You can reorder the stops within a day, download the whole trip or a single day as a calendar file (.ics), add a stop to Google Calendar, and delete the trip. Swapping in new stops or adding your own isn't available yet.