Valley junction in of itself is that all that exciting on the normal day. However they have a lot of great planned events that are definately worth attending. They have a farmers market every Thursday night with live music that is fun to attend. They also have a halloween trick or treating event that is worth attending. They do have an excellent little roof top wine bar that we LOVE and needs to be experienced!
Every Thursday during the summer, Valley Junction hosts a farmer's market and free music concert. Music acts vary, but the crowd is always full of a wide array of families and singles who just want to enjoy the summer weather among friends.
If you are heading to Des Moines, check the Junction calendar of events to see if there is an art or music festival going on that weekend. The art festival always has kids activities that get the kids out of the stroller and into creating art.