Des Moines Pet-Friendly Guide: Complete Guide
Travel with your furry friends! Discover pet-friendly hotels, parks, restaurants, and activities. Discover the best pet-friendly experiences in Des Moines.
Welcome to the ultimate pet-friendly guide for Des Moines! Travel with your furry friends! Discover pet-friendly hotels, parks, restaurants, and activities. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best pet-friendly experiences that Des Moines has to offer, from popular hotspots to hidden local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find insider tips, detailed recommendations, and everything you need to make the most of your pet-friendly adventure in Des Moines. Our carefully curated selection ensures you won't miss any of the must-see spots while also discovering unique experiences that most tourists overlook.
Key Takeaways
- Des Moines offers over 72 exceptional pet-friendly experiences
- Best time to visit varies by activity - check individual listings for optimal timing
- Many experiences require advance booking, especially during peak season
- Local guides and experts provide invaluable insights and access
- Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, with options for every preference
Pet-Friendly Hotels & Accommodations
Hotels, vacation rentals, and accommodations that welcome pets with open arms and special amenities.
La Quinta by Wyndham Altoona Des Moines
Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.
📍 1785 11th St NW, Altoona, IA 50009, USA
- 🐕Pets welcome with no extra fees
- 🐕Pet beds and bowls provided
- 🐕Nearby walking areas
- 🐕Pet-sitting services available
- 🐕Designated pet-friendly rooms
Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive
Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.
📍 7060 Lake Dr, West Des Moines, IA 50266, USA
- 🐕Pets welcome with no extra fees
- 🐕Pet beds and bowls provided
- 🐕Nearby walking areas
- 🐕Pet-sitting services available
- 🐕Designated pet-friendly rooms
Best Western Plus Des Moines West Inn & Suites
Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.
📍 1450 NW 118th St, Clive, IA 50325, USA
- 🐕Pets welcome with no extra fees
- 🐕Pet beds and bowls provided
- 🐕Nearby walking areas
- 🐕Pet-sitting services available
- 🐕Designated pet-friendly rooms
Home2 Suites Des Moines at Drake University
Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.
📍 2650 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311, USA
- 🐕Pets welcome with no extra fees
- 🐕Pet beds and bowls provided
- 🐕Nearby walking areas
- 🐕Pet-sitting services available
- 🐕Designated pet-friendly rooms
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Des Moines West, IA
Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.
📍 1350 NW 118th St, Clive, IA 50325, USA
- 🐕Pets welcome with no extra fees
- 🐕Pet beds and bowls provided
- 🐕Nearby walking areas
- 🐕Pet-sitting services available
- 🐕Designated pet-friendly rooms
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive
Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.
📍 1390 NW 118th St, Clive, IA 50325, USA
- 🐕Pets welcome with no extra fees
- 🐕Pet beds and bowls provided
- 🐕Nearby walking areas
- 🐕Pet-sitting services available
- 🐕Designated pet-friendly rooms
Holiday Inn & Suites Des Moines-Northwest by IHG
Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.
📍 4800 Merle Hay Rd, Urbandale, IA 50322, USA
- 🐕Pets welcome with no extra fees
- 🐕Pet beds and bowls provided
- 🐕Nearby walking areas
- 🐕Pet-sitting services available
- 🐕Designated pet-friendly rooms
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Des Moines West
Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.
📍 7225 Vista Dr, West Des Moines, IA 50266, USA
- 🐕Pets welcome with no extra fees
- 🐕Pet beds and bowls provided
- 🐕Nearby walking areas
- 🐕Pet-sitting services available
- 🐕Designated pet-friendly rooms
Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines
Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.
📍 5505 Mills Civic Pkwy, West Des Moines, IA 50266, USA
- 🐕Pets welcome with no extra fees
- 🐕Pet beds and bowls provided
- 🐕Nearby walking areas
- 🐕Pet-sitting services available
- 🐕Designated pet-friendly rooms
Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Des Moines - Jordan West by IHG
Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.
📍 240 Jordan Creek Pkwy, West Des Moines, IA 50266, USA
- 🐕Pets welcome with no extra fees
- 🐕Pet beds and bowls provided
- 🐕Nearby walking areas
- 🐕Pet-sitting services available
- 🐕Designated pet-friendly rooms
Dog Parks & Pet Recreation Areas
Off-leash dog parks, pet-friendly beaches, and outdoor spaces where your pets can play and socialize.
Paws & Pints
Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.
📍 6218 Willowmere Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321, USA
- 🐕Fully fenced off-leash area
- 🐕Separate areas for small and large dogs
- 🐕Water fountains for pets
- 🐕Waste disposal stations
- 🐕Shaded seating for owners
Ewing Dog Park
Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.
📍 4660 Indianola Ave, Des Moines, IA 50320, USA
- 🐕Fully fenced off-leash area
- 🐕Separate areas for small and large dogs
- 🐕Water fountains for pets
- 🐕Waste disposal stations
- 🐕Shaded seating for owners
Reno Memorial Dog Park
Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.
📍 Des Moines, IA 50317, USA
- 🐕Fully fenced off-leash area
- 🐕Separate areas for small and large dogs
- 🐕Water fountains for pets
- 🐕Waste disposal stations
- 🐕Shaded seating for owners
Riverwalk Dog Park
Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.
📍 1111 Illinois St, Des Moines, IA 50314, USA
- 🐕Fully fenced off-leash area
- 🐕Separate areas for small and large dogs
- 🐕Water fountains for pets
- 🐕Waste disposal stations
- 🐕Shaded seating for owners
Pet-Friendly Restaurants & Cafes
Restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating that welcome pets, some even offering special pet menus.
Big Grove Brewery & Taproom
Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.
📍 555 17th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🐕Pet-friendly outdoor seating
- 🐕Water bowls for pets
- 🐕Treats available for dogs
- 🐕Welcoming staff
- 🐕Shaded patio area
Smash Park Des Moines
Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.
📍 6625 Coachlight Dr, West Des Moines, IA 50266, USA
- 🐕Pet-friendly outdoor seating
- 🐕Water bowls for pets
- 🐕Treats available for dogs
- 🐕Welcoming staff
- 🐕Shaded patio area
The Pelican Post Bar & Grille
Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.
📍 265 50th St, West Des Moines, IA 50265, USA
- 🐕Pet-friendly outdoor seating
- 🐕Water bowls for pets
- 🐕Treats available for dogs
- 🐕Welcoming staff
- 🐕Shaded patio area
Gilroy's Kitchen + Pub + Patio
Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.
📍 1238 8th St, West Des Moines, IA 50265, USA
- 🐕Pet-friendly outdoor seating
- 🐕Water bowls for pets
- 🐕Treats available for dogs
- 🐕Welcoming staff
- 🐕Shaded patio area
Angry Goldfish Pub & Eatery
Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.
📍 2301 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315, USA
- 🐕Pet-friendly outdoor seating
- 🐕Water bowls for pets
- 🐕Treats available for dogs
- 🐕Welcoming staff
- 🐕Shaded patio area
Either/Or
Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.
📍 6222 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312, USA
- 🐕Pet-friendly outdoor seating
- 🐕Water bowls for pets
- 🐕Treats available for dogs
- 🐕Welcoming staff
- 🐕Shaded patio area
Hessen Haus
Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.
📍 101 SW 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🐕Pet-friendly outdoor seating
- 🐕Water bowls for pets
- 🐕Treats available for dogs
- 🐕Welcoming staff
- 🐕Shaded patio area
The Slow Down Coffee Co.
Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.
📍 3613 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313, USA
- 🐕Pet-friendly outdoor seating
- 🐕Water bowls for pets
- 🐕Treats available for dogs
- 🐕Welcoming staff
- 🐕Shaded patio area
Veterinary Services & Pet Stores
Emergency vets, pet stores, grooming services, and essential pet care facilities.
Pet Supplies Plus Des Moines
Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.
📍 4371 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310, USA
- 🐕Pet supplies and food
- 🐕Grooming services available
- 🐕Knowledgeable staff
- 🐕Emergency vet services
- 🐕Pet medications in stock
Pet Supplies Plus Des Moines
Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.
📍 4211 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321, USA
- 🐕Pet supplies and food
- 🐕Grooming services available
- 🐕Knowledgeable staff
- 🐕Emergency vet services
- 🐕Pet medications in stock
Petsakes Pet Supplies
Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.
📍 1575 E Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316, USA
- 🐕Pet supplies and food
- 🐕Grooming services available
- 🐕Knowledgeable staff
- 🐕Emergency vet services
- 🐕Pet medications in stock
Iowa Veterinary Specialties
Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.
📍 6110 Creston Ave, Des Moines, IA 50321, USA
- 🐕Pet supplies and food
- 🐕Grooming services available
- 🐕Knowledgeable staff
- 🐕Emergency vet services
- 🐕Pet medications in stock
South Des Moines Veterinary Center
Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.
📍 6301 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315, USA
- 🐕Pet supplies and food
- 🐕Grooming services available
- 🐕Knowledgeable staff
- 🐕Emergency vet services
- 🐕Pet medications in stock
Just Paws! Gourmet & Gifts
Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.
📍 3800 Merle Hay Rd # 906, Des Moines, IA 50310, USA
- 🐕Pet supplies and food
- 🐕Grooming services available
- 🐕Knowledgeable staff
- 🐕Emergency vet services
- 🐕Pet medications in stock
Pet-Friendly Activities
Tours, attractions, and activities where pets are welcome to join the fun.
Blank Park Zoo
Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Des Moines park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.
- •Bring water and portable bowl
- •Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
- •Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
- •Check for shade during hot weather
- •Watch for other dogs and wildlife
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Des Moines park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.
- •Bring water and portable bowl
- •Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
- •Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
- •Check for shade during hot weather
- •Watch for other dogs and wildlife
Gray's Lake Park
Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Des Moines park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.
- •Bring water and portable bowl
- •Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
- •Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
- •Check for shade during hot weather
- •Watch for other dogs and wildlife
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Des Moines park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.
- •Bring water and portable bowl
- •Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
- •Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
- •Check for shade during hot weather
- •Watch for other dogs and wildlife
Union Park
Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Des Moines park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.
- •Bring water and portable bowl
- •Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
- •Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
- •Check for shade during hot weather
- •Watch for other dogs and wildlife
Des Moines Water Works Park
Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Des Moines park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.
- •Bring water and portable bowl
- •Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
- •Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
- •Check for shade during hot weather
- •Watch for other dogs and wildlife
Raccoon River Park
Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Des Moines park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.
- •Bring water and portable bowl
- •Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
- •Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
- •Check for shade during hot weather
- •Watch for other dogs and wildlife
Des Moines Children's Museum
Visit this pet-friendly Des Moines attraction where your furry companion is welcome to join the experience.
- •Call ahead to confirm pet policy
- •Bring leash and required documentation
- •Plan for pet breaks and water
- •Avoid peak visiting hours
- •Be prepared to carry small pets if needed
Ewing Dog Park
Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Des Moines park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.
- •Bring water and portable bowl
- •Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
- •Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
- •Check for shade during hot weather
- •Watch for other dogs and wildlife
Sargent Park
Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Des Moines park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.
- •Bring water and portable bowl
- •Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
- •Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
- •Check for shade during hot weather
- •Watch for other dogs and wildlife
Pet Travel Tips
Essential advice for traveling with pets, from packing to safety considerations.
Waterfall Discovery Hike
Embark on an exhilarating Des Moines adventure that combines stunning natural beauty with heart-pumping excitement and expert guidance.
- •Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
- •Bring plenty of water - at least 2 liters per person
- •Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix and energy bars
- •Check weather forecast and trail conditions before going
- •Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds
Desert Canyon Trail
Challenge yourself with this thrilling Des Moines experience, designed for adventurers seeking authentic outdoor excitement and memorable moments.
- •Bring a detailed trail map and compass or GPS
- •Wear layers that can be added or removed
- •Apply sunscreen and bring a hat for sun protection
- •Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
- •Carry a first aid kit and know basic first aid
Coastal Cliff Walk
Explore Des Moines's wild side with this carefully crafted adventure, offering the perfect blend of challenge and natural wonder.
- •Bring a headlamp or flashlight just in case
- •Pack out all trash - leave no trace
- •Stay on marked trails to protect vegetation
- •Be aware of wildlife and keep a safe distance
- •Bring trekking poles for stability on steep sections
Valley View Trail
This Des Moines outdoor experience provides adrenaline-seekers with safe, exciting activities led by certified professionals.
- •Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
- •Bring plenty of water - at least 2 liters per person
- •Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix and energy bars
- •Check weather forecast and trail conditions before going
- •Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds
Historic Trail Journey
Discover the raw beauty of Des Moines's landscape through this immersive adventure, suitable for various skill levels.
- •Bring a detailed trail map and compass or GPS
- •Wear layers that can be added or removed
- •Apply sunscreen and bring a hat for sun protection
- •Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
- •Carry a first aid kit and know basic first aid
Wildlife Observation Path
Push your limits with this Des Moines expedition, where experienced guides ensure both safety and unforgettable thrills.
- •Bring a headlamp or flashlight just in case
- •Pack out all trash - leave no trace
- •Stay on marked trails to protect vegetation
- •Be aware of wildlife and keep a safe distance
- •Bring trekking poles for stability on steep sections
Essential Tips
- 🐕Always call ahead to confirm pet policies
- 🐕Bring vaccination records and health certificates
- 🐕Pack familiar items like toys and bedding
- 🐕Research local pet regulations and leash laws
- 🐕Keep your pet on a regular feeding schedule
- 🐕Bring enough medication for the entire trip
- 🐕Have a recent photo of your pet in case they get lost
- 🐕Microchip your pet before traveling
- 🐕Plan for pet-friendly transportation options
- 🐕Book pet-friendly accommodations well in advance
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
The best time for pet-friendly experiences in Des Moines varies by activity and season. Generally, spring and fall offer ideal conditions with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with the most options but also the highest prices and largest crowds. Winter can offer unique experiences and better deals, though some activities may be limited.
Average Price
Prices for pet-friendly experiences in Des Moines range widely depending on the activity and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium and exclusive options can range from $200-500+. Many activities offer group discounts and package deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Des Moines offers many excellent pet-friendly experiences, each with its own unique character. The best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule, but our guide highlights the top-rated options that consistently deliver exceptional experiences.
Timing varies by activity, but generally spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Summer is peak season with the most options but larger crowds. Check individual listings for specific timing recommendations and seasonal considerations.
For popular experiences, especially during peak season, advance booking is highly recommended. Some activities have limited capacity and sell out quickly. Booking ahead also often provides better rates and ensures availability.
Requirements vary by activity, but generally bring comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear, sun protection, water, and any specific gear mentioned in activity descriptions. Check individual listings for detailed requirements.
Many pet-friendly experiences in Des Moines cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Check individual listings for difficulty levels and requirements. Many operators offer instruction and guidance for newcomers.
Costs vary widely depending on the type of experience and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium options can range from $200-500+. Group discounts and packages are often available.
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