Discover 26 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in Norwalk.
13 Upcoming EventsThe highest-rated places we recommend first — start here.
Wright Road Park in Norwalk offers families a welcoming neighborhood retreat with well-kept playground equipment and plenty of open green space for active play. The modern facilities and thoughtfully designed layout make it an ideal spot for casual playdates, picnics, or burning off energy after school.
Sunset Park in Norwalk is a charming neighborhood park that offers the perfect setting for a relaxed family afternoon. With its well-maintained playground equipment, plenty of open space for running and games, and quieter areas where parents can unwind while kids play, it's an ideal spot for families looking for outdoor fun without the overwhelming crowds of larger parks.
🎳 BowlingWarrior Eats combines the excitement of bowling with family-friendly dining, making it a perfect one-stop destination for Norwalk families. This local favorite offers special family bowling nights and birthday party packages, so you can enjoy a full evening of entertainment without the hassle of multiple stops. The welcoming community atmosphere means kids can be kids while parents relax and enjoy casual dining.
🌾 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🍽️ RestaurantThe Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden offers a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor exploration for families, featuring a stunning geodesic dome conservatory filled with exotic plants, seasonal outdoor gardens, and peaceful walking paths along the Des Moines River. With its interactive children's garden areas, educational displays, and stroller-friendly pathways, it's an ideal destination for introducing kids to the wonders of nature in a manageable, beautiful setting.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🌳 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🌳 ParkLakeview Park in Norwalk offers families a peaceful retreat with beautiful pond views and plenty of space for kids to explore. With well-maintained playground equipment, shaded picnic areas, and easy walking trails perfect for strollers or beginning bikers, this suburban gem provides the ideal setting for a relaxed outdoor day without the crowds of larger metro parks.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🎳 BowlingWaveland Cafe is a beloved Des Moines breakfast and lunch spot serving up classic American comfort food in a welcoming, no-fuss atmosphere. With its affordable prices, generous portions, and kid-friendly menu, this local favorite has been feeding families for years. The casual cafe vibe makes it perfect for bringing the whole crew, including picky eaters who'll find plenty of familiar options.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🌊 Water ParkDes Moines Water Works Park is a beloved seasonal water park that delivers summer fun for the whole family without breaking the bank. With thrilling water slides for adventurous kids, a relaxing lazy river for the whole family to float together, an exciting wave pool, and dedicated shallow areas perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, there's truly something for every age and comfort level.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🌳 ParkColby Park is a beloved Windsor Heights destination that delivers everything families need for a great outdoor day. With multiple playgrounds, sports courts, baseball fields, and spacious picnic areas, this well-maintained neighborhood park offers something for every family member, whether you're planning an active afternoon or a relaxing picnic gathering.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🦁 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🌳 ParkVeteran's Memorial Park and Marina is Norwalk's go-to destination for families seeking outdoor fun with waterfront views. This well-maintained park combines classic playground equipment, spacious picnic areas, scenic walking trails along the water, and open sports fields,making it ideal for everything from toddler playdates to active family afternoons.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
📚 LibraryThe Norwalk Easter Public Library is a gem for families seeking educational fun and community connection. With its modern facilities and extensive children's section, this welcoming library offers much more than just books,from engaging storytimes that captivate little listeners to exciting summer reading programs that keep kids motivated all season long.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
⚽ SportsWaveland 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
⚽ SportsAshworth 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
13 upcoming family events in Norwalk
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 13 events in and around Norwalk