The 30 Best Outdoor picnic areas in Des Moines, Iowa

The Reichardt Family Natural Play Area, located at Water Works Park in Des Moines, Iowa, is a unique outdoor space designed to encourage children to explore, create, and connect with nature. This innovative play area features natural elements such as logs, rocks, and plants, providing a hands-on learning experience for kids of all ages. With plenty of open space to run and play, as well as shaded areas for picnics and relaxation, the Reichardt Family Natural Play Area is the perfect destination for families looking to unplug and enjoy the great outdoors together. Come visit and see why this one-of-a-kind play area is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The Des Moines Riverwalk is a scenic park located along the Des Moines River Trail in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. This beautiful outdoor space offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the river. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverfront, take in the natural beauty of the surroundings, and relax in this serene oasis in the heart of the city. Whether you're looking for a place to exercise, unwind, or simply connect with nature, the Des Moines Riverwalk is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

American Legion Park is a charming and peaceful park located at 301 Vine Street in West Des Moines, Iowa. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, walking paths, and picnic areas, it is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The park also features a memorial dedicated to the American Legion, honoring the brave men and women who have served in the United States military. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, American Legion Park is a must-visit destination in West Des Moines.

Pearson Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 1256 19th Street in West Des Moines, Iowa, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the scenic trails, have a relaxing picnic by the pond, or simply unwind and soak in the beauty of nature. Pearson Park is the perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to reconnect with the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a fun place to explore with loved ones, Pearson Park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in West Des Moines.

MLK Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 1650 Garfield Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. Named in honor of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., this park serves as a peaceful retreat for visitors and locals alike. With lush greenery, walking paths, and a playground for children, MLK Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply enjoying the outdoors. The park also features a memorial dedicated to Dr. King, making it a significant historical site as well as a popular tourist attraction in the area. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or learn more about an important figure in American history, MLK Park is a must-visit destination in Des Moines.

Raccoon River Park is a beautiful and expansive park located at 2500 Grand Avenue in West Des Moines, Iowa, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. From hiking and biking trails to fishing and boating opportunities on the scenic Raccoon River, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this picturesque park. With lush green spaces, playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a beach for swimming, Raccoon River Park is the perfect destination for a fun-filled day outdoors with family and friends.

Rotary Riverwalk Park is a picturesque park located in Des Moines, Iowa, along the scenic riverfront at 821 West River Drive. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, walking paths, and stunning views of the river. The park is maintained by the Rotary Club of Des Moines and features beautiful landscaping, picnic areas, and benches for relaxation. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the river, Rotary Riverwalk Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Raccoon River Park Boathouse is a charming waterfront facility located at 2500 Grand Avenue in West Des Moines, Iowa, United States. Situated on the picturesque shores of Raccoon River, this boathouse offers a serene and scenic setting for various water activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Visitors can rent equipment, take lessons, or simply enjoy a leisurely day on the water. The boathouse also hosts events, workshops, and guided tours for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area. With its convenient location and range of offerings, the Raccoon River Park Boathouse is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Sheridan Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 4000 Hull Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, walking paths, and scenic views, Sheridan Park is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply sit and soak in the tranquil surroundings, this park has something for everyone. Come visit Sheridan Park and experience the beauty and serenity it has to offer.

Irving E. Stone Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 2100 Southeast 5th Street in Des Moines, Iowa. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, walking paths, and scenic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and unwind in this beautiful outdoor space. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a quiet spot to read a book, Irving E. Stone Park is the perfect destination for a day of tranquility and natural beauty.

Valley View Park is a picturesque tourist attraction located at 101-301 South 88th Street in West Des Moines, Iowa. This beautiful park offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding valley and is the perfect place to relax and unwind in nature. With well-maintained walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, Valley View Park is a popular destination for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply take in the scenic views, Valley View Park is the ideal spot for a day of fun and relaxation.

Greenwood - Ashworth Park is a beautiful and spacious park located at 4500 Grand Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. This park offers a serene and peaceful environment for visitors to relax and enjoy nature. With lush greenery, walking paths, and picnic areas, Greenwood - Ashworth Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon or a family outing. Whether you're looking to take a peaceful stroll, have a picnic, or simply unwind in the great outdoors, Greenwood - Ashworth Park is the ideal destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Woodlawn Park is a charming and picturesque tourist attraction located at 3126 Twana Drive in Des Moines, Iowa. This beautiful park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding pathways, and scenic views. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with family and friends, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, Woodlawn Park is a must-visit destination for those looking to relax and unwind. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, this hidden gem is sure to delight and enchant all who explore its grounds.

McHenry Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 1012 Oak Park Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. With its lush greenery, walking paths, and picnic areas, McHenry Park is a great spot for a family outing or a peaceful afternoon stroll. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, play some sports, or simply unwind in a peaceful setting, McHenry Park has something for everyone. Come visit this charming park and experience the beauty of nature in the heart of Des Moines.

Bates Park is a beautiful outdoor recreational area located at 330 Clark Street in Des Moines, Iowa. This park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding paths, and tranquil ponds. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, walking, jogging, or simply relaxing in the peaceful surroundings. Bates Park is the perfect spot for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to unwind and connect with the outdoors.

Chesterfield Park is a charming outdoor oasis located at 2719 Scott Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. This picturesque park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush green spaces, walking paths, and a playground for children to enjoy. Visitors can relax on the benches scattered throughout the park, have a picnic in the designated areas, or simply take in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind, exercise, or spend quality time with loved ones, Chesterfield Park is the perfect destination for all ages.

Jordan Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 600 East Wall Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, walking trails, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax with a book, take a leisurely stroll, or have a fun outdoor gathering with friends and family, Jordan Park is the perfect destination. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Iowa and experience the beauty of nature at its finest.

The Water Works boat ramp is a popular recreational facility located at 2803 George Flagg Parkway in Des Moines, Iowa. This park offers easy access to the water for boating enthusiasts, with a well-maintained boat ramp for launching and retrieving watercraft. Visitors can enjoy a day out on the water, fishing, water skiing, or simply cruising along the river. The park also features picnic areas, walking trails, and beautiful views of the surrounding natural landscape. Whether you're looking to spend a relaxing day by the water or enjoy some outdoor activities, the Water Works boat ramp is the perfect destination for outdoor fun in Des Moines.

Gray's Lake Park is a beautiful urban oasis located in Des Moines, Iowa. Situated at 2101 Fleur Drive, this popular tourist attraction offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the lake, take a leisurely stroll along the walking paths, or rent a paddleboat to explore the water. With its lush greenery, picnic areas, and playgrounds, Gray's Lake Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing day out with family and friends. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or get some exercise outdoors, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shelter House is a picturesque park located at Water Works Park in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. This institution offers a serene and natural setting for visitors to enjoy the outdoors and relax in the beauty of their surroundings. With ample green spaces, walking trails, and picnic areas, Shelter House is the perfect place for a family outing, a peaceful stroll, or a leisurely afternoon spent in nature. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or simply enjoy the fresh air, Shelter House is the ideal destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Easttown Park is a charming green space located at 2559 Hubbell Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. This park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush grassy areas, walking paths, and beautiful landscaping. Visitors can enjoy picnics, outdoor recreation, and soaking up the natural beauty of the park. Easttown Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a relaxing day spent in nature.

Easter Lake Park is a beautiful outdoor recreational area located at 2830 Easter Lake Drive in Des Moines, Iowa. This park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, fishing opportunities, picnic areas, and a beach for swimming. The park is also home to a nature center where visitors can learn about the local wildlife and ecosystem. With its scenic views and peaceful atmosphere, Easter Lake Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Oak Grove Beach is a beautiful day-use facility located on the scenic Saylorville Lake Project in Polk City, Iowa. Situated among a forest of majestic oak trees, this campground and park offer a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. With two group picnic shelters, flush toilets, a playground, volleyball court, and hiking trails, Oak Grove Beach is the perfect spot for a fun day outdoors. The lake itself provides opportunities for boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, and hunting, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Wildlife is abundant in the area, with deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals frequently spotted around the lake.

Yellow Banks Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in Pleasant Hill, Iowa. Situated at 6801 Southeast 32nd Avenue, this park is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. With its stunning views of the Des Moines River, hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities, Yellow Banks Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to go fishing, bird watching, or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll in the great outdoors, Yellow Banks Park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in the heart of Iowa.

Brody School Park is a picturesque park located at 3100 Southwest 23rd Street in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. This charming park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, walking trails, and beautiful picnic areas, Brody School Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing day outdoors. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings, Brody School Park is a must-visit destination in Des Moines.

Bing's is a charming institution located at 213 5th Street in West Des Moines, Iowa. It is a unique combination of a park and store, offering visitors a peaceful outdoor space to relax and explore, as well as a variety of local products and gifts to browse and purchase. The park features beautiful landscaping, walking paths, and seating areas, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with friends and family. The store offers a curated selection of handcrafted items, souvenirs, and artisanal goods, providing a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. Whether you're looking to enjoy the outdoors or shop for a special gift, Bing's has something for everyone to enjoy.