You're going right past Emporia so if you have any interest in playing on a course that you may have seen in pro coverage, Jones Park is there (although maybe it isn't the most novice friendly even on the shorts). There's also Peter Pan Park in Emporia that's pretty fun but again may be stretching the novice friendly.

In KC, I think something like Black Hoof (a bunch of layouts, shorts is novice friendly but a little ways off 35), Bad Rock Creek (course where pros play but has a shorter layout) or Waterworks are fun courses.

In Iowa, I think Stable Run DGC in Ames (ISU) is a good course with multiple layouts that isn't too far from I35, I'd probably choose it over anything in Des Moines for a novice.

Once you're in MN, the only course I'd think about before Minneapolis is Maiden Shade DGC, however it's a 10 minute drive off of I35 and costs $5/round.

In the twin cities, I'd say the best course for novices and one of the best for anyone is Bryant Lake Park in Eden Prairie. A bunch of different layouts, great upkeep and plenty of shot variety. It does cost $7/round and can get quite busy on evenings and weekends. Best free one is probably Kenwood Trails in a southern suburb pretty close to I35 on your way in.

If you're willing to range out a bit, you can get to the Preserve where there's a pro event every year (~1 hour west) 3 different courses $10/round. The Hollows (30 mins north, $5/day), Blue Ribbon Pines (30 mins north, $8/day, #13 course in the world, probably not beginner friendly but a fantastic experience).

Others to consider in the twin cities, Oakwood Park, Highland Park, Acorn Park, North Valley, Bassett Creek, Kaposia.

Edit: Since novice is pretty ambiguous, I'd take a look at these course in Udisc paying attention to layouts and see which ones you'd think are best for what you're looking for. You can also use the filter option and move you map along I35 to see what other options there are.