Discover Nature's Oasis: McHenry Park
Experience the beauty of McHenry Park, an urban oasis in Des Moines, offering nature trails, wildlife, and family-friendly activities.
McHenry Park in Des Moines, Iowa, is a serene urban escape, offering beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and recreational activities for all visitors. This urban park is perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and family outings.
A brief summary to McHenry Park
- 1012 Oak Park Ave, Des Moines, Oak Park, Iowa, 50313, US
- +1515-283-4500
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for peaceful walks and the chance to see wildlife.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots throughout the park.
- Bring your camera for stunning photos of the park's natural beauty.
- Check the local wildlife schedule for the best times to spot various birds and animals.
- Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds on weekends.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, first head to the nearest major highway in Northeast Iowa. The most common route is via US-20 or US-218. From there, navigate to I-80 East towards Des Moines. Once in Des Moines, take exit 137A for I-235 E toward Des Moines. Continue on I-235 E for approximately 4 miles, then take exit 8B to merge onto 63rd St. After about 1 mile, turn left onto Oak Park Ave. McHenry Park will be on your left at 1012 Oak Park Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313. Parking is available on-site.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take a bus service to Des Moines. The Greyhound station or local transit system can help you reach downtown Des Moines. From the Des Moines bus terminal, you can take the DART Transit services (Bus Route 3) towards the Oak Park area. Disembark at the closest stop to McHenry Park, which is on Oak Park Ave. Walk approximately 5 minutes to reach the park entrance. Check the DART Transit website for the latest schedules and fares; expect a fare of around $2.00-$3.00 for a one-way trip.
Discover more about McHenry Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Highland Park Historic Business District at Euclid and Sixth Avenues
0.6 km
Explore the Highland Park Historic Business District in Des Moines, a charming blend of history and local culture with beautiful architecture and unique shops.
River Bend Neighborhood
1.9 km
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The Oaklands Historic District
2.0 km
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Union Park Historic Rocket Slide
2.2 km
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Bates Park Historic District
2.5 km
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Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker
3.9 km
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Middlesex Plat Historic District
4.2 km
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Saint Paul's Episcopal Cathedral
4.3 km
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State Historical Society of Iowa
4.4 km
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The Des Moines Building
4.4 km
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Civil War Mortar
4.5 km
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Iowa Statue of Liberty
4.5 km
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Des Moines Liberty Sister
4.5 km
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Temple Theater
4.5 km
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Liberty Bell Memorial
4.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Riverview Park
0.6 km
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Birdland Park
2.2 km
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Heritage Carousel of Des Moines
2.2 km
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Union Park
2.6 km
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Ashby Park
3.2 km
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Brass Armadillo Antique Mall - Des Moines
3.3 km
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Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
3.6 km
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Augmented Reality Mural -interactive- on Northern-most half pike
3.6 km
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Robert D. Ray Asian Garden
3.8 km
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Rotary Riverwalk Park
3.9 km
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Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
3.9 km
A stunning pedestrian bridge in Des Moines honoring Iowa's influential women, offering scenic views and a unique architectural experience.
Des Moines Historic District
4.1 km
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East Village Mural
4.3 km
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State Historical Building
4.4 km
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Holocaust Memorial
4.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Mr. Bibbs Restaurant - Home of The Tenderloin Sandwich
0.9 km
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Buzzard Billy’s
4.1 km
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Flying Mango
4.1 km
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Alba Restaurant
4.2 km
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Railroad Bill's Dining Car
4.2 km
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Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
4.2 km
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Olympic Flame Restaurant
4.3 km
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Clyde's Fine Diner
4.3 km
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Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
4.3 km
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801 Chophouse
4.3 km
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Basil Prosperi
4.3 km
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Aposto at the Scala House
4.3 km
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Splash Seafood Bar & Grill
4.3 km
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Bar Nico
4.3 km
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The Continental
4.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Divine Times Vintage
0.5 km
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Des Moines Mercantile
0.6 km
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Sundus Fashion and Decor
1.7 km
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Wonderland Apothecary at Groovy Goods
3.2 km
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Groovy Goods Daydreams - Tobacco Pipes & Hippie Clothing
3.2 km
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Ancient Ways
3.3 km
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Domestica
3.9 km
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Collectamania
4.1 km
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The Plaza Shoppe
4.1 km
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East Village Emporium
4.2 km
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Fontenelle Supply Co.
4.3 km
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Porch Light
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Chapter 2 Jewelry, Apparel, and Accessories
4.3 km
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KIN
4.3 km
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May Eleven
4.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bellhop
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Alleged Lee's
4.3 km
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Nightingale Cocktail
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Carl's Place
4.3 km
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Locust Tap
4.4 km
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85 Bar
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503 Cocktail Lab and Tasting Room
4.4 km
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Hello, Marjorie
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Beechwood Lounge
4.5 km
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Black Sheep
4.5 km
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The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar
4.5 km
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Ken's - a not so secret speakeasy
4.5 km
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the LiFT
4.5 km
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The Copper Cup
4.6 km
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Juniper Moon
4.6 km
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