There’s just something about fall in DSM. The crisp air, the changing leaves, the nonstop events—it’s my favorite season to soak up everything DSM has to offer. From apple orchards to live concerts, the options feel endless and honestly, I want to do them all.
Nothing says fall quite like a trip to the orchard and around the region, we are spoiled for choice. Families can find pumpkin chucking, goat petting and even tractor-pedaling adventures across properties that make the season unforgettable for kids of all ages.
My personal favorite? The Iowa Orchard and Pie Bakery. Between the honey crisp apples and the famous cider doughnuts, it’s heaven. Here’s a little insider tip: don’t rush there right when they open—give it about an hour. That’s when the doughnuts come out hot and fresh and it’s worth the wait.
Farmers' Market Finds
Even as the season cools, the Downtown Farmers’ Market keeps the energy alive. You’ll find local produce, beautiful fall bouquets, pumpkin-spiced everything and live music on nearly every corner. For me, it’s about the smells and the sounds—the fresh coffee brewing, the cinnamon rolls (yes, the ones bigger than your head) and the local artists keeping the city vibrant.
My usual haul? A bouquet of flowers, a biscuits-and-gravy cup topped with a runny egg, a fresh-squeezed orange juice and… okay fine, the giant cinnamon roll. If big crowds aren’t your scene, the region is full of cozy local bakeries and restaurants sharing their seasonal specialties. I’ll put ChaCha’s Confections pumpkin caramel cupcake at the top of your must-try list.
Trails, Bridges & Bikes
When I’m ready to balance out all the food, the region’s trail system is my sanctuary. DSM boasts some of the best biking, walking and running trails in the Midwest—safe, well-lit and gorgeous this time of year. I frequent Walker Johnston Park, the Greenbelt Trail and the paths around Saylorville Lake.
But if you want a real fall showstopper, head to the High Trestle Trail Bridge near Madrid. Bike it, run it, or simply take in the views. Bonus tip: make it a full day. Start with breakfast at Sisters in Cheese, swing through Luther for BBQ at Whatcha Smokin’ and then finish with a Rail Explorers Tour in Boone. It’s DSM at its best.
Arts, Music & Community
Beyond the trails and treats, DSM in the fall comes alive with events. In just one week, I went from a mainstream concert at the Lauridsen Amphitheater, to a musical at the Des Moines Playhouse, to cheering on a high school homecoming game, to sipping wine at WineFest’s Grand Tasting and even dancing the night away at the Des Moines Art Center Gala.
That’s the beauty of this city—on any given day, you can pick between art, sports, music, theater, or festivals and you’ll never be disappointed.
Dogs, Parks & Everyday Magic
Of course, no fall is complete without time spent outside with my dogs. The metro trails are perfect for furry companions and if you don’t have one, the Animal Rescue League of Iowa has a dog-walking volunteer program where you can borrow a buddy for the day. Picture yourself walking the Clive Greenbelt with your new four-legged friend, then stopping at Either/Or for a cozy drink. That’s a perfect fall afternoon.
Or maybe it’s a stroll through the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, where there’s almost always something happening—a festival, art event, or simply the energy of Downtown Des Moines in full swing.
Fall in Love with DSM
Fall in DSM is everything I love—beautiful weather, nonstop flavors, endless trails and a community that knows how to make every weekend count. So whether you’re apple-picking, biking the bridge, or eating your way through the Downtown Farmers’ Market (no shame, I’ll be right there with you), take it all in. This is the season to fall in love with DSM all over again.
Ready to enjoy fall in DSM? Request your free relocation guide today.