June 16, 2026
By: Greater Des Moines Partnership
Gray’s Lake Playground and Sprayground Just a Short Distance from Downtown
With more than 1 million people visiting Gray’s Lake each year, the Downtown Des Moines (DSM) location is a community landmark, and it just got a major upgrade. Opening just last month, the new Rick Neumann Family Playground and Sprayground is located on the east side of the beach area. Built for all ages, this new amenity is a must-visit summer destination, where families can make new memories in an beautiful summer setting.
About the New Playground and Sprayground
New playground equipment and a splash pad just in time for summer! The updates to Gray's Lake will bring laughter, smiles and fun in the sun to all ages. See the highlights below:
- New Nature-Inspired Design
- Separate Play Spaces for Ages 3-5 and 5-12
- Inclusive, Accessible Play Area for Children with Cognitive Needs
- Shaded Seating for Parents/Caregivers
- Free Sprayground
Gray’s Lake Terrace
The new playground and sprayground at Gray’s Lake Park aren’t the only reason to visit. Now open at full capacity from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. daily, the Concession Stand at Christine Hensley Terrace offers watercraft rentals of the following:
- 2-Person Canoes
- 3-Person Canoes
- Stand-Up Paddle Boards
- 4-Person Pedal Boats
- Row Boat
- Double Kayaks
- Single Kayaks
There are also Stand-Up Paddle Board and Sailboat rentals available at the Beach Concession Stand. See the City of Des Moines website for half hour and hourly watercraft rental rates.
![aerial of Gray's Lake Playground and Sprayground]()
Photo Credit: City of Des Moines
Places to Check Out Near Gray's Lake Park
Whether you start Downtown and make your way to the Gray's Lake Area or vice versa, there is plenty to do in both locations. Grab some donuts from ChuChu's before taking the kids to the new playgroun or splash around on a hot afternoon before cooling off after your time in the sun at a Downtown game room or in the Star Theater Planetarium at the Science Center of Iowa. No matter how you choose to split your time, you'll love the convenience of outdoor fun so close to other Downtown DSM attractions, events, shops and restaurants. Here are a few ideas to add to your day at Gray's Lake:
![boy playing in Gray's Lake Sprayground]()
Photo Credit: City of Des Moines
- Black Cat Ice Cream Downtown, 1301 Locust St.
- ChuChu Donuts, 580 SW 9th St., Ste. 116
- Confluence Brewing Company, 1235 Thomas Beck Road
- Des Moines Biergarten at Water Works Park, 2251 George Flagg Parkway
- Gray's Station Summer Music Series at Gray's Station, 520 SW 13th St.
- Horizon Line Coffee, 1417 Walnut St.
- Jasper Winery, 2400 George Flagg Parkway
- Mad Meatball at Gray's Station, 210 SW 11th St., Ste. 1
- Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe, 300 SW 5th St.
- Science Center of Iowa, 401 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway
- Willis Summer Series at Lauridsen Amphitheater, 2251 George Flagg Parkway
- Yoga in the Park at Gray's Lake, 2101 Fleur Dr.
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