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Sports & Recreation

Sports & Recreation for Kids in Des Moines, IA

27 sports facilities, recreation centers, and athletic activities rated and reviewed by families.

Activities & Venues in Des Moines

Walker Johnston Park park in Urbandale, IA🌳 Park
Photo: Walker Johnston Park
4.7(655)Free7 mi · Urbandale

Walker Johnston Park is Urbandale's premier family destination, offering something for every age across its expansive grounds. From the popular splash pad that provides relief on hot Iowa summer days to the skateboard park, fishing pond, and multiple playgrounds, families can easily spend an entire day exploring this well-maintained recreational hub.

🕑 3-5 hours

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Hyperion Field Club association or organization in Johnston, IA Sports
Photo: Scott Lane
4.7(214)$$$9 mi · Johnston

Hyperion Field Club in Johnston offers families a full-service country club experience with activities for every age. From junior golf programs that introduce kids to the sport to a refreshing swimming pool and tennis courts, this welcoming club makes it easy to enjoy quality family time while kids learn new skills and burn energy in a safe, supervised environment.

🕑 3-4 hours for a typical family visit

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Indianola Activity Center community center in Indianola, IA🏛️ Community Center
Photo: Michael Dunn
4.7(58)$16 mi · Indianola

The Indianola Activity Center is a beloved community hub where families can swim, play, and stay active year-round. With an indoor pool that's perfect for all seasons, a spacious gymnasium for energetic play, and diverse family programs, this well-maintained facility offers something for every member of the family under one roof.

🕑 2-3 hours

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The P.A.R.C. Recreation Center sports activity location in Pleasant Hill, IA Sports
Photo: Sam Clingan-Siverly
4.7(38)$6 mi · Pleasant Hill

The 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.

🕑 1.5-2.5 hours for typical games and practices, or all-day for tournament participation

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Urbandale Senior Recreation Center sports activity location in Urbandale, IA Sports
Photo: Urbandale Senior Recreation Center
4.6(70)$6 mi · Urbandale

The Urbandale Senior Recreation Center may have 'senior' in its name, but don't let that fool you,this community hub offers engaging youth programs and family activities that make it a hidden gem for Urbandale families. With fitness classes, recreational programs, and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a budget-friendly spot where multiple generations can enjoy quality time together in a safe, indoor environment.

🕑 1-2 hours for most program sessions or drop-in visits

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Clive Aquatic Center swimming pool in Clive, IA🌊 Water Park
Photo: David Thorpe
4.5(439)$8 mi · Clive

Clive Aquatic Center is a fantastic outdoor pool complex that hits all the right notes for families seeking summer fun. With its gentle zero-depth entry perfect for tentative swimmers, thrilling water slides for adventure-seekers, diving boards for showing off, and a dedicated kiddie pool area, there's truly something for every age and comfort level in your crew.

🕑 3-4 hours

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Waveland Golf Course golf course in Windsor Heights, IA Sports
Photo: Ryan Dueker
4.5(425)$3 mi · Windsor Heights

Waveland Golf Course in Windsor Heights offers a welcoming introduction to golf for young players in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. With dedicated junior golf programs and patient teaching professionals, it's an ideal spot for kids to learn the fundamentals of the game without the intimidation factor of more formal courses.

🕑 1.5-3 hours depending on activity (45-60 minutes for lessons, 2-3 hours for playing a round)

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Indianola Pickard Sports Complex sports complex in Indianola, IA🌳 Park
Photo: Jaime Barraza
4.5(259)Free17 mi · Indianola

Indianola Pickard Sports Complex is a sprawling community park that serves as a one-stop destination for active families. With multiple playgrounds for different age groups, scenic walking trails perfect for stroller walks or family bike rides, and expansive sports fields where kids can run wild, this well-maintained complex offers something for everyone in the family.

🕑 2-4 hours

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Ashworth Swimming Pool swimming pool in Beaverdale, IA Sports
Photo: Tim Hurley
4.5(118)$3 mi · Beaverdale

Ashworth Swimming Pool is a beloved neighborhood gem in Beaverdale that offers a refreshing escape for families during Iowa's warm months. This public pool provides a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere with designated family swim times and swim lessons, making it an ideal spot for both experienced swimmers and little ones just learning to love the water.

🕑 2-3 hours

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Carlisle Family Aquatic Center swimming pool in Carlisle, IA Sports
Photo: Shalena Byrkett
4.5(76)$10 mi · Carlisle

Carlisle 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.

🕑 3-4 hours

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Cascade Falls Aquatic Center swimming pool in Ankeny, IA Sports
Photo: Cascade Falls Aquatic Center
4.4(619)$$9 mi · Ankeny

Cascade Falls Aquatic Center is Ankeny's premier indoor water playground, offering year-round aquatic fun for the whole family. With exciting waterslides, a relaxing lazy river, and dedicated swim areas for different age groups, this facility keeps kids entertained while parents can enjoy the fitness amenities or join in the splashing fun.

🕑 2-4 hours

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Skate South sporting goods store in Des Moines, IA🎮 Entertainment
Photo: Skate South
4.4(565)$

Skate South is a classic roller skating rink that brings retro fun to Des Moines families, perfect for kids learning their first skating moves or showing off their skills. With arcade games to take skating breaks, a welcoming atmosphere for all skill levels, and popular birthday party packages, it's an active indoor option that gets kids moving and laughing together.

🕑 2-3 hours

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