Things to Do in Des Moines in the Winter: The Ultimate Driver's Guide

Des Moines transforms into a wonderland during the colder months, but navigating Iowa winters requires the right strategy—and the right ride. Whether you’re chasing outdoor adventures or seeking cozy indoor escapes, this guide will help you navigate the metro area safely and styled for the season.

Best Winter Activities in Des Moines

Brenton Skating Plaza

Located in the heart of downtown, this open-air ice rink is a quintessential winter experience offering public skating sessions against the magic of the city skyline. Perfect for a family day out or a memorable date night.

• Local Insider Tip: Parking downtown in January can mean a chilly walk. Look for spots in the Fourth and Grand garage to stay close.
• The Winter Drive Advantage: Don’t let a sudden downtown snowfall spoil date night. The Volkswagen Tiguan features an available 4MOTION® All-Wheel Drive system with a dedicated Snow Mode, letting you navigate tight city corners and slick parallel parking spaces with absolute confidence. Plus, its compact frame slips effortlessly into coveted downtown street spots.

Central Iowa Outdoor Recreation Areas

From cross-country skiing at Jester Park to snowshoeing and sledding down local county hills, Central Iowa’s trail systems offer ample space to embrace the snow.

• Local Insider Tip: Check the Polk County Conservation board morning updates for real-time trail grooming conditions before you pack up.
• The Winter Drive Advantage: Winter gear takes up serious space. Sleds, heavy coats, and snowshoes demand a cabin that doesn’t compromise. The Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport offer up to 96.8 cubic feet of cargo room, ensuring you never have to leave equipment behind. Activate the heated rear seats to keep the kids warm the second they climb back inside from the cold.

Indoor Entertainment & Wells Fargo Arena

When the Iowa temperatures plummet past freezing, move the action indoors. Catch a high-energy Iowa Wild professional hockey game at the Wells Fargo Arena, or spend a quiet afternoon exploring the Historic East Village’s indoor boutiques and local eateries.

• Local Insider Tip: For hockey games, arriving 45 minutes early ensures smoother garage access and less time idling in the cold.
• The Winter Drive Advantage: Leaving a heated arena only to sit in a freezing car is the worst part of winter. With the VW Car-Net app, you can remotely start your Volkswagen from your phone while inside the arena, ensuring your cabin and heated steering wheel are perfectly toasted by the time you reach the parking lot.

Winter Events in Des Moines

Holiday Festivals and Markets

Des Moines celebrates the season with various festivals and markets. Keep an eye on local calendars for community tree lightings, holiday markets featuring local artisans, and seasonal light displays that brighten up the city.

Des Moines Area Community Gatherings

Throughout the winter, the metro area hosts numerous community events, from winter carnivals to indoor concerts. The Historic East Village and downtown areas are vibrant hubs for seasonal festivities, shopping, and dining, making them great spots to visit for a quintessential Des Moines winter day.

Don’t Freeze This Winter. Upgrade Your Drive.

Getting to Des Moines’ best winter spots shouldn’t feel like an arctic expedition. At Lithia Volkswagen of Des Moines, we can help you find a vehicle equipped with heated seats, remote start, and advanced 4MOTION® AWD to conquer the Iowa freeze.