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Things To Do

Take some time and explore what Des Moines has to offer before our wedding! Below you'll find a few of the top-rated places to visit and some of our favorite breweries and bars in town.
Downtown Farmers’ Market

Downtown Farmers’ Market

300 Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309

Spanning 12 blocks in the Historic Court District, this lively Saturday market features local farmers, fresh produce, baked goods, handmade items, and ready-to-eat food—plus live entertainment and family-friendly activities. Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company has the best mimosas! 0.3 miles from The River Center Approx. 7-minute walk

Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Pappajohn Sculpture Park

1330 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309

A 4.4-acre downtown park featuring more than 30 striking sculptures, offering a walkable, open-air art experience and a popular gathering spot for visitors and locals alike. 1.5 miles from The River Center Approx. 6-minute drive

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines, IA 50309

A 12-acre urban oasis along the river featuring lush gardens, a waterfall and pond, seasonal blooms, and one of the country’s largest bonsai collections—perfect for a peaceful stroll in the city. 1.4 miles from The River Center Approx. 5-minute drive

Big Grove Brewery & Taproom

Big Grove Brewery & Taproom

555 17th Street, Des Moines, IA 50309

One of our favorite places! A lively brewery just west of downtown known for craft beer, elevated pub food, and a spacious indoor-outdoor patio with fire pits. 1.7 miles from The River Center Approx. 6-minute drive

Exile Brewing Company

Exile Brewing Company

1514 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 50309

A downtown Des Moines brewpub known for its award-winning craft beers and scratch-made menu, all served in a spacious, historic-meets-modern taproom with a relaxed, community feel. 1.4 miles from The River Center Approx. 5-minute drive

El Bait Shop

El Bait Shop

200 Southwest 2nd Street, Des Moines, IA 50309

A fun downtown bar and grill known for its huge craft beer selection and relaxed atmosphere, plus comfort food favorites like burgers, wings, and tacos with a lively patio vibe. 0.2 miles from The River Center Approx. 4-minute walk

300 Craft & Rooftop

300 Craft & Rooftop

300 West Martin Luther King Junior Parkway, Des Moines, IA 50309

Located in downtown Des Moines, 300 Craft & Rooftop offers stunning rooftop views overlooking Principal Park and the city skyline. Enjoy craft cocktails, a great beer selection, and a lively atmosphere perfect for celebrating. 900 feet from The River Center Approx. 1-minute walk