We have been busy here at Jerry's Homes, building homes across the Des Moines metro and loving every moment of summer in our city. Beyond building foundations and framing walls, We are passionate about building memories and Des Moines is the perfect backdrop for summer living. Here are some favorite ways to soak up the season and connect with this amazing community.

🌳 1. Trails, Parks & Outdoor Fun
Des Moines is packed with places to explore the outdoors.

-Gray’s Lake is a favorite for paddleboats, trails, and lake views.

-Water Works Park hosts summer concerts and is perfect for biking or picnicking.

-For longer rides, the High Trestle Trail offers scenic views and connects to other metro towns.

Looking for a neighborhood with easy access to parks and trails? That’s our specialty. For example, Sankey Summit in Bondurant backs right up to a new city park!

🎡 2. Festivals, Fairs & Farmers Markets
Summer in Des Moines means something fun is always around the corner.

-The Downtown Farmers' Market runs every Saturday with local vendors, food trucks, live music, and fresh produce.

-It goes without saying that nobody should miss the legendary Iowa State Fair. think deep-fried treats, live music, animals, and the famous Butter Cow.

-The Beaverdale Bluegrass Festival 2025 is July 19th, Tower Park. Get those small town vibes, right here in Des Moines!

🐅 3. Family-Friendly Attractions
If you’ve got kids (or are just a kid at heart), you’ll love:

-Blank Park Zoo with tigers, giraffes, and a train ride.

-The Science Center of Iowa, full of interactive exhibits and planetarium shows.

-Living History Farms, where you can experience pioneer life and hands-on farming fun.

🍔 4. Patios, Brews & Summer Nights
After a long day, nothing beats a good meal outside.

-East Village patios and rooftop spots like The Republic on Grand offer great views and vibes.

-Des Moines is also home to award-winning breweries like Exile, Big Grove, and Singlespeed, many with live music and patios

Summer evenings often end with lightning bugs lighting up the yard, this year, they’re everywhere!

🎢 5. Weekend Adventures
Make a quick trip to:

-Adventureland for rides, roller coasters, and a full waterpark experience.

-Nearby small-town festivals featuring parades, live music, and good old-fashioned fun. Check out Clive Festival July 18-19

-Stop by U-pick Berry Farm in Granger to pick your own strawberries, raspberries and sunflowers! 

-Lake Ahquabi State Park is a short drive to Indianola (super close if you live in our Ashton Park Community) is a fun place to fish, camp or swim at the beach (as always, make sure to check water conditions before swimming in any of our state parks!)

🏡 Summer is the Season to Settle In
What I love most is seeing the neighborhoods we build come alive in the summer, kids riding bikes, neighbors grilling together, families enjoying their backyards. This is what “home” is all about.

If you’re thinking about a new home in the Greater Des Moines metro, now is a great time to explore. Let’s find the perfect community for your summer lifestyle.

Want to see homes near parks, trails, and great schools? Check out our website or contact one of our talented Sales Agents to find the right fit for your next chapter.

Here’s to a summer full of sunshine, community, and new memories!

— Jerry's Homes