Top Indoor Attractions in the Des Moines Area

Whether you’re visiting for the holidays or just passing through the heart of Iowa this winter, the Des Moines West KOA Holiday in Adel is your cozy home base. But while our campground offers a quiet escape, the Iowa winter can sometimes be a bit... brisk.

When the temperatures drop, Des Moines transforms into an indoor playground. From world-class museums to massive entertainment hubs, here are the best ways to escape the cold and keep the whole family entertained this season.

Dive into Culture: Museums & More

If you want to stay warm while expanding your horizons, Des Moines has some of the best indoor cultural spots in the Midwest. Make sure to check operating hours before planning.

• Located in the heart of downtown, SCI is perfect for families. You can explore the night sky in the planetarium, build rockets, or get hands-on in the "What-on-Earth" gallery.
• Want to pretend you’re in the tropics? Step into the 80-degree conservatory. It’s the warmest place in the city! During the holidays, don't miss "Dome for the Holidays" with festive floral displays and twinkling lights.
• This is a hidden gem that is . It features massive exhibits on Iowa’s history, including life-sized mammoth replicas and Hollywood-related Iowa memorabilia.
• For a quieter afternoon, head to this world-renowned museum. Admission is free, and the stunning architecture alone is worth the trip.

Shop, Dine, and Walk the Skywalks

You don’t have to brave the wind to get your shopping fix or enjoy a great meal.

• Located just 15 minutes from our KOA, this is the largest shopping complex in the state. It features a massive indoor mall, a 20-screen movie theater, and dozens of restaurants like Cheesecake Factory and Bravo! Italian Kitchen.
• Did you know Des Moines has over four miles of climate-controlled glass walkways? You can park your car and "hike" across downtown, visiting coffee shops like or grabbing a legendary burger at without ever stepping outside.
• Home to unique entertainment like (a cinema that brews its own beer) and , Iowa’s largest indoor pickleball venue.

High-Energy Fun: Arcades & Entertainment

If the kids (or the kids at heart) have cabin fever, these high-energy spots are the perfect cure.

• Located in the East Village, this 21+ arcade bar features over 60 arcade games from the 80s and 90s, pinball, and skee-ball—all for just 25 cents.
• A massive indoor venue featuring pickleball courts, cornhole, arcade games, and "social-sized" food and drinks. It’s a great spot to spend an entire afternoon.
• If you want everything in one place—bowling, laser tag, escape rooms, and a massive arcade—this is your spot. It’s located in West Des Moines, making it a very quick drive from the campground.

Your Winter Home Base: Des Moines West KOA

After a day of exploring the city, come back to the quiet charm of Adel. Whether you’re staying in one of our cabins or hunkering down in your RV with our full hookups, we provide a peaceful place to recharge.

• Most attractions are closed on December 25th, but many have extended hours on the 26th through the 31st.
• Our KOA is located just off I-80 at Exit 106. You can be in the heart of West Des Moines in about 15 minutes and downtown in about 25.