Jim Muto Recreation Area

River Views in Downtown

Stretching along the Des Moines River in the heart of downtown, Jim Muto Recreation Area offers a pocket of greenery amid the urban landscape. Sitting pretty on Robert D. Ray Drive, this small but mighty park gives both locals and visitors a chance to catch their breath and connect with nature without leaving the city.

Get Moving on the Trails

The paved multipurpose trails winding through the park are meant for a quick morning jog, an afternoon stroll, or a leisurely bike ride. As you move along these paths, you'll be treated to some genuinely lovely views of the Des Moines River. Better yet, these trails connect to the wider network throughout the city, so you can easily extend your outdoor adventure if you're feeling ambitious.

Compact Charm

Don't expect a massive expanse here - Jim Muto Recreation Area sits somewhere between the size of a basketball court and a football field. But what it lacks in square footage, it makes up for in accessibility and atmosphere. This human-scaled green space provides just enough room to escape the concrete jungle for a moment.

The best part? It's completely free to enjoy. And when summer heats things up, you'll appreciate the shaded areas scattered across the park, offering cool spots to relax and maybe crack open that book you've been meaning to finish.