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Outlets of Des Moines shopping mall in Altoona, IA
Photo: Outlets of Des Moines
View of Outlets of Des Moines in Altoona, IA
Photo: Doug Zehr
View of Outlets of Des Moines in Altoona, IA
Photo: Doug Zehr

Outlets of Des Moines

4.3(4,095 reviews)$Shopping
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy the outdoor play spaces, while elementary-aged kids appreciate the seasonal events and activities. Teens may enjoy shopping for their own clothes at popular outlet brands.

About

Outlets of Des Moines offers families more than just shopping,it's a complete entertainment destination with outdoor play areas where kids can burn energy between stores, family-friendly dining options for easy meal breaks, and seasonal events throughout the year. The outdoor setting makes it easy to let children explore while parents browse name-brand outlets, creating a win-win shopping experience for the whole family.

Highlights

  • Outdoor play areas where kids can climb and explore freely
  • Seasonal family events including holiday celebrations and special activities
  • Multiple kid-friendly dining options conveniently located on-site
  • Name-brand outlet stores for affordable children's clothing and shoes
  • Open-air shopping environment that doesn't feel confining for active children

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Visit the outdoor play areas first when kids are fresh,they're perfect for burning energy before tackling any shopping errands
  2. 2.Park near Bass Pro Drive entrance for easiest access to family dining and restrooms
  3. 3.Check the outlet's website or social media before visiting for special seasonal events like character meet-and-greets or holiday activities
  4. 4.Weekday mornings right after opening are quietest for stroller-friendly shopping
  5. 5.Bring layers,the outdoor spaces are great in nice weather, but you'll want jackets for transitioning between air-conditioned stores

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (11 AM-1 PM) offer the lightest crowds and easiest navigation with strollers. Late spring through early fall provides the best weather for enjoying outdoor play areas. Avoid weekend afternoons during back-to-school season when it's busiest.

What to Know

Free parking is available throughout the center. Multiple family dining options are on-site, including quick-casual restaurants perfect for kids. The open-air layout is stroller-accessible with wide walkways.

Seasonal Notes

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for enjoying outdoor spaces. Summer can be hot but play areas provide shade. Winter months limit outdoor play time but feature holiday events and decorations. Check ahead for seasonal family events like Easter egg hunts or holiday character appearances.

Nearby Eats

Bass Pro Shops restaurant is adjacent to the outlets and offers a kid-friendly atmosphere with wildlife decor. Multiple on-site dining options within the center include familiar chain restaurants with kids' menus.

More Activities Near Altoona

Activity

Bass Pro Shops

4.4Free

Bass Pro Shops in Altoona isn't just a store,it's a free entertainment destination where kids can explore massive aquariums filled with native fish, get up close to lifelike wildlife displays, and watch archery demonstrations. The cabin-lodge atmosphere with waterfalls, taxidermy animals, and interactive exhibits makes it feel like a mini nature museum that happens to sell fishing gear.

Park

Copper Creek Lake Park

4.7Free

Copper Creek Lake Park is a scenic 70-acre park that offers the perfect blend of active play and nature exploration for families. With a well-equipped playground, paved walking trails circling a picturesque fishing lake, and plenty of open green space, it's an ideal spot for everything from toddler picnics to elementary-aged adventures. The park's combination of modern amenities and natural beauty makes it a local favorite that keeps families coming back.

Library

Altoona Public Library

4.7Free

Altoona Public Library is a welcoming community hub that goes far beyond books, offering dynamic programming specifically designed for young learners. With highly-rated story times, engaging summer reading challenges, and year-round educational events, this modern library creates memorable experiences that foster a love of reading and learning in children of all ages.

Adventure

Prairie Crossing

4.6Free

Prairie Crossing offers a scenic, paved multi-use trail system perfect for families looking to get outside together in Altoona. This safe, well-maintained trail winds through neighborhoods and connects various parks, making it ideal for bike rides, stroller walks, or letting kids practice their scooter skills without worrying about traffic.