Des Moines
WinterOff season ~36°F highs
Things to do in Des Moines in December
December is off season (quieter, and often cheaper) to visit Des Moines, with average highs around 36°F. Museums and indoor sights come into their own, with fewer crowds outside.
Best picks for December
What's famous here, weighted toward what shines in December.
Holidays in December 2026
- Christmas Day · Fri, Dec 25
Expect busier roads and pricier stays around these dates. See long weekends.
What’s on in Des Moines in December
Concerts, games and shows in the next few weeks. Tickets open on Ticketmaster.
Des Moines in December: quick answers
Is December a good time to visit Des Moines?
December is off season (quieter, and often cheaper) to visit Des Moines, with average highs around 36°F. Museums and indoor sights come into their own, with fewer crowds outside.
What is the weather like in Des Moines in December?
Average daytime highs are around 36°F, compared with 85°F in the warmest month. Check the forecast a week out; our planner favors indoor stops on rainy days.
What are the best things to do in Des Moines in December?
Top picks for December: Des Moines Art Center, Richard L. Easter Museum Complex, Farm House Museum, Historic Central School, Iowa Aviation Museum.
