Water Works Park is a 1,500-acre park in Des Moines, Iowa, in the city center. It is one of the United States’ largest urban parks. The park, which is located along the Raccoon River, has paths, picnic spaces, grills, and fields. Outdoor leisure activities abound throughout the park. It has a 200-acre lake, protected forests, and wide-open spaces for sports and other activities. Des Moines Water Works Park was purchased in the 1920s and 1930s to secure the city’s water supply. The site was turned into a natural recreation area in 1922, and it was opened to the public in 1933. In 2011, a park design competition resulted in a master plan for the park. Development began in 2018 after the foundation raised millions of dollars. The Arie den Boer Arboretum, one of the world’s greatest collections of crab apple trees with over 300 types, is located in the park. In 1930, nurseryman Arie den Boer began planting a group of 300 unique trees. Since then, more trees have been added, bringing the total number of trees to 800! The trees are a major attraction and bloom from late April to early May. On the park’s east side, the two-sided Lauridsen Amphitheater and Killinger Family Stage can be found. Both large and small crowds may be accommodated in the double-sided theater. Set against a blue sky and sunshine, Denman Memorial Garden and Fountain is a wonderful location for a snapshot. It’s also one of the most popular outdoor wedding locations in the Des Moines area. The fountain is located near the park’s Fleur Drive entrance. There are a lot of wonderful fishing places in Water Works Park! Cast a line into one of the park’s many ponds or fish from the banks of the Raccoon River. Crappie, catfish, bluegill, and carp are among the fish found in the park’s waters. It is necessary to have a valid Iowa fishing license. The park provides lots of space for gatherings of all sizes, with large open spaces and multiple picnic tables and grills. On a first-come, first-served basis, a few picnic shelters are provided. The Reichardt Family Natural Playground encourages children to use their imaginations! Among the natural wooden constructions, children may jump, balance, pursue and hide. There’s even a sandbox! The play area is located near the amphitheater on the park’s east side. Water Works Park has a variety of trails to choose from, with something for everyone. Throughout the park, there are paved pathways, dirt roads, and even horse tracks. The trails here include the Bill Riley Trail, Great Western Trail, Walnut Creek Trail, Center Trails, and Denman’s Woods, Bridle Trails. Between holiday celebrations, you may drive past the brilliant display of Jolly Holidays Lights in the park during the winter months. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are other popular activities at Water Works Park.

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