This fun park complex provides tons of entertainment, featuring over 100 amusement rides as well as entertainment shows and other attractions. Adventureland is home to thriller rides like the Tornado roller coaster and the Space Shot. The Splash Over combines thrills and water in an unbeatable combination. The park attracts families and offers an individual children's ride area. Call ahead for performance shows and listings.

Considered one of the state's best zoos, this is a great place to catch a glimpse of natural wildlife. The Blank Park Zoo is home to over 800 species, including giraffes, sea lions and Himalayan snow leopards. The zoo boasts over 20 acres of park grounds, and features natural habitat sections like an Australian Walkabout and an African Boardwalk.

Experience the whirlwind fun of an actual wooden carousel. The Heritage Carousel of Des Moines is located in Union Park and features 30 animal rides, as well as a pair of wheelchair accessible chariots. The merry-go-round churns to the music of a Stinson organ and is reminiscent of a time gone by.

With hard work and effort, America's prairie land eventually became its breadbasket, and the Living History Farms chronicle how early settlers and farmers worked the area. Visitors to this 600-acre living museum can see how Native Americans planted maize and lived during the 18th century. Also on display is a pioneer farm with farm workers in authentic dress and costumes. The history museum provides a learning experience on farming and features a number of demonstrations.

What better way to gaze at the stars than at an actual planetarium that also features laser shows? The Science Center of Iowa has been allowing visitors to stargaze for over 30 years. The museum features several interactive exhibits and features displays such as a Foucault pendulum. The IMAX theater shows some first-run movies in addition to specialty presentations.