Discover 28 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in Carlisle.
3 Upcoming EventsThe highest-rated places we recommend first — start here.
🍽️ RestaurantScotty's Dawg House is a laid-back neighborhood spot in Carlisle where families can enjoy classic American comfort food without the fuss. With a menu built around kid favorites like hot dogs and burgers, plus a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't stress about occasional spills or noise, it's the kind of place where parents can actually relax while the kids happily dig into their meals.
🧗 AdventureThe Summerset Trail offers 11 miles of smooth, paved pathways ideal for family biking adventures, stroller walks, and teaching kids to ride without training wheels. This scenic rail-trail connects Carlisle to Indianola, winding through beautiful Iowa countryside with gentle grades that make it accessible for all skill levels and ages.
Lindhardt Park is a classic neighborhood playground in Carlisle that offers everything families need for a fun outdoor outing. With its variety of climbing structures, slides, and swings set against plenty of open grass space, it's the perfect spot for kids to burn energy while parents relax nearby or join in on the fun.
🌾 FarmDes Moines' Downtown Farmers' Market transforms Saturday mornings into a vibrant community experience where kids can explore colorful vendor booths, sample fresh treats, and learn where their food comes from. With its lively atmosphere, live entertainment, and endless opportunities for tasting and discovering, it's an educational outing that feels like a fun adventure for the whole family.
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🌳 ParkEwing Park is a sprawling community oasis in Des Moines that delivers serious fun for active families. With multiple playgrounds catering to different age groups, a refreshing splash pad for hot summer days, and wide-open spaces perfect for running wild, this highly-rated park offers everything you need for a memorable outdoor adventure without breaking the bank.
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🌳 ParkCopper 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.
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🍽️ RestaurantMy Sister's Place is a casual, family-friendly restaurant and bar in downtown Carlisle that welcomes families looking for a relaxed meal out. With budget-friendly prices and extended hours throughout the week, it's a convenient stop for lunch or early dinner when exploring the historic downtown area with kids.
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📚 LibraryPleasant Hill Public Library is a welcoming modern community hub that goes far beyond books, offering engaging storytimes, interactive children's programs, and the beloved summer reading challenges that keep kids excited about learning year-round. With a 4.7-star rating from families, this library has built a reputation for creating memorable experiences through hands-on activities, educational events, and a warm atmosphere where children feel right at home.
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⚽ SportsThe P.A.R.C. Recreation Center is Pleasant Hill's premier youth sports destination, offering well-maintained baseball and softball fields where young athletes can develop their skills and love of the game. With its welcoming atmosphere and family-focused programming, it's the perfect place for kids to participate in organized leagues, tournaments, and practices while parents enjoy watching from comfortable sidelines.
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🌳 ParkDoanes Park is a beloved Pleasant Hill neighborhood gem that offers something for every family member. With its well-maintained playground equipment, multiple sports facilities including baseball fields and basketball courts, and generous open green spaces, it's the perfect spot for active families who want options beyond just a playground visit.
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📚 LibraryCarlisle Public Library is a welcoming community hub that goes beyond books, offering engaging story times, hands-on educational activities, and special family events throughout the year. With an impressive 4.8-star rating from local families, this small-town library creates a warm, accessible environment where kids can discover the joy of reading while parents connect with other families in the community.
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🦁 ZooBlank Park Zoo offers an intimate, manageable zoo experience perfect for families with young children. With 100 acres of well-maintained exhibits featuring crowd favorites like giraffes, African lions, and penguins, plus interactive animal encounters throughout the day, it's sized just right for little legs to explore without overwhelming them. The shaded walkways and numerous picnic areas make it comfortable to spend a full morning or afternoon discovering wildlife together.
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Molly's Frozen is a beloved Des Moines ice cream destination that goes beyond ordinary flavors to delight adventurous young taste buds. The welcoming, kid-friendly vibe and outdoor seating make it easy for families to relax while kids enjoy creative frozen treats. With consistently high ratings from locals, this Court Avenue spot has become a go-to reward stop after downtown activities or a sweet destination in itself.
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⚽ SportsCarlisle Family Aquatic Center is a fantastic summer destination that offers something for every age. The zero-depth entry pool is perfect for cautious swimmers and toddlers, while the water slides and diving boards keep older kids entertained for hours. With dedicated areas for younger children and plenty of space to spread out, this well-maintained outdoor facility makes for an affordable and fun-filled family day.
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🌳 ParkHickory Glen Park is a welcoming community park in Pleasant Hill that offers everything families need for a perfect outdoor outing. With well-maintained playground equipment, peaceful walking paths for stroller-pushing parents, and plenty of open green space for picnics and play, it's an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy fresh air without traveling far from home.
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3 upcoming family events in Carlisle
Tonic Court Ave offers families a relaxed dining experience in Des Moines' historic Court Avenue district. This spacious, casual restaurant features a kid-friendly menu alongside traditional comfort food favorites, making it easy to please everyone at the table. The welcoming atmosphere and wine bar setting strike a nice balance between grown-up dining and family-friendly accessibility.
Want to give your child a comprehensive summer theater experience? Summer Camp Musical Theater Camp at Temple Theater in Des Moines, IA provides six weeks of intensive training for grades 3-8 from June 15 through July 31, 2026. Students will explore singing, dancing, acting, and scene work while building ensemble skills and stage confidence.
via Des Moines Performing Arts - Family Series
Ready to help your child shine on stage this summer? Musical Theater Camp at Temple Theater in Des Moines, IA offers six weeks of creative performance training for grades 3-8, with sessions running June 15 through July 31, 2026. Your young performer will develop confidence, stage presence, and musical skills while working with experienced instructors in a supportive ensemble environment.
via Des Moines Performing Arts - Family Series
Showing 3 events in and around Carlisle