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.

Centered on an 866-acre lake, this park offers a bevy of diversions for both locals and tourists. The Big Creek State Park showcases swimming and fishing areas, as well as biking and boating opportunities. There are 26 miles of hiking trails and part of a 160-mile bike loop that connects several nature areas. The lake is due partly to a dam project designed to protect Polk City from flooding. This area now provides over 3,000 acres for recreational activities.

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.

A 150-foot geodesic dome, an herb garden and a bonsai enclosure ­ considered one of the 10 best in the country ­ all create the perfect viewing environment at the Des Moines Botanical Center. The center houses a variety of exotic plant life, including orchids and bromeliads. Visitors will even experience free-flying birds and a number of floral and succulent plant exhibits. The facility covers over 14 acres on the eastern banks of the Des Moines River.

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.