From Des Moines
Pella is southeast of Des Moines on Iowa Highway 163. Fly-in visitors can use Des Moines International Airport (DSM), rent a car, and follow the highway toward Pella.
Getting here
Getting to Pella via Iowa 163
Pella is a road-trip destination southeast of Des Moines. During Tulip Time, street closures, limited downtown parking, remote lots, and shuttle accessibility determine the final approach.
Festival streets
Tulip Time closes streets around the square and parade staging areas. Most festival activities fit within roughly four blocks of Central Park, so plan to walk after parking.
Shuttles and lots
Official remote lots and shuttle details can change by festival day. Not every shuttle is accessible, and some parking spaces require a substantial walk to the boarding point.
Lake Red Rock
Lake Red Rock lies west of town and requires a separate drive. Allow a half day rather than using the gap between parade events.
Pella arrival map
Des Moines airport, Pella, and Lake Red Rock
Des Moines International Airport (DSM) lies northwest of Pella, with Iowa Highway 163 providing the principal road approach. Lake Red Rock is west of town, while Central College sits just south of downtown. Map lines show regional position rather than turn-by-turn road geometry; use live directions before driving.
- Tap a marker for the airport, Pella, Lake Red Rock, or Central College.
- Use current road, festival-parking, and federal recreation notices before travel.
Second Star gear guide
Road Trip Essentials
Road-trip packing list
Road-trip gear
Phone mounts, chargers, coolers, emergency supplies, and small car organizers for the drive to and from the destination.
Car Phone Mounts
$26.99
Road Trip Coolers
$275.00
Car Emergency Kits
$69.95
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