Union Park Historic Rocket Slide: A Blast from the Past
Experience a nostalgic thrill at Des Moines' Union Park, home to the iconic Rocket Slide and family-friendly fun since 1971.
Union Park's iconic Rocket Slide is a nostalgic landmark in Des Moines, Iowa, that has been delighting families for generations. Originally part of the Astro City playground, which opened in 1971, the Rocket Slide offers a thrilling descent and a chance to relive childhood memories.
A brief summary to Union Park Historic Rocket Slide
- Des Moines, Union Park, Iowa, 50316, US
- +1515-237-1386
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring swimwear for the splash pool during the summer months.
- Pack a picnic blanket and enjoy lunch on the grassy areas near the park.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown Des Moines, take DART bus routes 4 or 15 towards Union Park. The closest bus stop is at E 14th St / Thompson Ave, a short 11-minute walk to the park. A single ride fare costs $1.75.
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Walking
From the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, head north on Robert D. Ray Drive, then turn left onto E 14th Street. Continue north for approximately 1.5 miles. Union Park will be on your left. The walk is approximately 30 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-share
From Des Moines International Airport, a taxi or ride-share to Union Park will take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for the ride.
Discover more about Union Park Historic Rocket Slide
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Union Park Historic Rocket Slide
0.0 km
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The Oaklands Historic District
1.2 km
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Bates Park Historic District
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River Bend Neighborhood
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Experience tranquility in the heart of Des Moines at River Bend Neighborhood Park, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families.
Highland Park Historic Business District at Euclid and Sixth Avenues
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Iowa Statue of Liberty
2.5 km
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Des Moines Liberty Sister
2.5 km
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Civil War Mortar
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State Historical Society of Iowa
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Liberty Bell Memorial
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Senator William B. Allison Memorial
2.7 km
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S-36 Submarine Memorial
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McCall Monument
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Japanese Bell of Peace & Friendship
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Unmissable attractions to see
Birdland Park
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Union Park
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Riverview Park
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Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
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Augmented Reality Mural -interactive- on Northern-most half pike
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Experience the innovative fusion of art and technology at the Augmented Reality Mural in Downtown Des Moines, where every visit reveals hidden wonders.
McHenry Park
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Robert D. Ray Asian Garden
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Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
2.5 km
A stunning pedestrian bridge in Des Moines honoring Iowa's influential women, offering scenic views and a unique architectural experience.
Holocaust Memorial
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Rotary Riverwalk Park
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Iowa State Capitol
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East Village Mural
2.6 km
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State Historical Building
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Des Moines Historic District
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Soldiers and Sailors Monument
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Essential places to dine
Mr. Bibbs Restaurant - Home of The Tenderloin Sandwich
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Railroad Bill's Dining Car
2.4 km
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Alba Restaurant
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Olympic Flame Restaurant
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Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
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The Continental
2.6 km
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Bar Nico
2.6 km
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Lucca
2.7 km
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Clyde's Fine Diner
2.7 km
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Open Sesame
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HoQ Restaurant
2.8 km
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Buzzard Billy’s
2.8 km
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Ceviche Bar
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The Iowa Taproom
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Splash Seafood Bar & Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Divine Times Vintage
2.0 km
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Des Moines Mercantile
2.1 km
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East Village Emporium
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Fontenelle Supply Co.
2.5 km
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Porch Light
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Collectamania
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KIN
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Chapter 2 Jewelry, Apparel, and Accessories
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True Style
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Aimee
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She Home & Gift
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May Eleven
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Janes - Family Shop
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MARNe
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Goldeneye Curations
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bellhop
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Alleged Lee's
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Nightingale Cocktail
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Locust Tap
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85 Bar
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503 Cocktail Lab and Tasting Room
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Beechwood Lounge
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The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar
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Black Sheep
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Ken's - a not so secret speakeasy
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the LiFT
3.2 km
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Tonic Court Ave.
3.3 km
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Shorty's Somewhat Fancy Bar
3.3 km
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The Copper Cup
3.3 km
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Pints Bar Rooftop - PBR Country
3.3 km
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