10/22/2026
Here’s a list of our favorite indoor play options around Des Moines 👇🏼❤️
🤸🏼♀️ Triad Gymnastics | Ankeny
Open play + parent/kid drop-in classes for ages 1–5 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:15–10:15 AM for $10/kiddo!
☕️ PLAYgrounds Cafe | Waukee
Indoor play structures, slides, toys + coffee for the grown-ups! A great spot for little ones ages 6 and under to burn off some energy while you get a little caffeine fix. 🙌🏼
📚 Johnston + Grimes Public Libraries
FREE! Kids’ play areas, story times, books, crafts + family activities. My kids’ favorite parts? The slide at the Grimes library and the rotating, themed play area at the Johnston library!
🔬 Science Center of Iowa | Downtown DSM
Hands-on exhibits, tons of room to play and learn, and fun for a variety of ages! You can also use the Iowa Adventure Pass through participating libraries for FREE admission once a year.
🎈 Valley Community Center | West Des Moines
FREE indoor play equipment for ages 7 and under! Tot Town runs Tuesdays and Thursdays in the gym from 9:30–11:30AM with inflatables, books, a slide, toys + more. A great way to get the kids out of the house without spending a dime! There’s also a cafe where you can purchase coffee or a smoothie! ☕️
🛝 Slick City Action Park | Clive
Indoor dry slides + action-packed fun for kids who love to climb, slide and stay moving. There’s an area for younger kiddos, too!
🎨 Des Moines Children’s Museum | West Des Moines
Imaginative, hands-on play where little ones can explore, create and learn through play. They’re moving to a new location, so keep an eye out for updates!
🌈 Ames Play Yard | Ames
Indoor climbing, slides + plenty of space to play! A fun option when you’re up for a little day trip. 🚗
✨ NEW SPOTS WE CAN’T WAIT TO VISIT! ✨
☕️ Whimsy & Wonder Play Cafe | Ankeny
🌸 Bloom Play Co. | Cu***ng
📌 Save this for your next rainy day, cold Iowa morning or whenever everyone needs to get out of the house! Send it to a friend who could use some new ideas, too!
What indoor play spots am I missing? Drop your favorites below! 👇🏼