With most of 2020 behind us, it’s time to reflect on what we’re thankful for in Greater Des Moines. There’s the abundance of local breweries, the restaurants who quickly pivoted to offer us takeout, and the friends and neighbors who were there when we needed them the most.
Yet, there’s something else that’s made this year better for so many of us that deserves celebrating. The great outdoors.
Access to outdoor activities and amenities might not be the first thing to cross the mind of visitors — or even longtime residents. But in a year when the outdoors became the place to be, it’s clear how much we have to be grateful for.
From a socially distant picnic to an all-day kayaking trip, you can do just about anything outside in our city. Take a walk along Gray’s Lake to get a view of the downtown skyline. Paddle along one of our rivers or lakes for a more natural view. Bike along any part of our 800-mile connected trail system. Or the whole thing, if you’re really ambitious. Take a hike — literally. We’ve got all of that, plus all the incredible amenities Greater Des Moines has to offer.