Things To Do
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
A beautiful indoor/outdoor garden perfect for a relaxing morning stroll. The bride’s dad spends many hours volunteering here as a Polk County master gardener, so be sure to check out his hard work!
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
A great place to explore unique modern art sculptures and snap some photos.
Historic East Village
A charming area with boutique shopping, coffee shops, and unique finds.
Iowa State Capitol
Take a free tour of the stunning gold-domed capitol building.
Mulberry Street Tavern
Great for an upscale but relaxed lunch.
Big Grove Brewery & Taproom
Enjoy local craft beer and delish food at one of our favorite spots.
Allora Cafe
A stylish café with amazing lunch options right off the Papajohn sculpture garden.
Tasty Tacos
If you’re looking for a true Des Moines staple, don’t miss Tasty Tacos. Known for their signature puffy flour tacos, this casual spot is a local favorite for a reason. It’s quick, affordable, and packed with flavor—perfect for a laid-back lunch or a late-night bite.
Horizon Line Coffee
Horizon Line Coffee is a bright, modern café known for great coffee and a relaxed vibe. It’s a local favorite—and even the Jonas Brothers stopped by earlier this year during their tour.
Des Moines Art Center
A fantastic (and free!) museum with contemporary and modern art.
Malo
Malo is a lively downtown spot for bold Latin flavors, great tacos, and margaritas. They also have a great patio—perfect for a fun, casual night out.
La Mie Bakery
La Mie Bakery is a charming, French-inspired bakery and café known for its flaky pastries, artisan breads, and cozy neighborhood feel. It’s a local favorite for a relaxed breakfast or lunch—perfect for grabbing a latte, croissant, or sandwich and soaking in the laid-back vibe.
Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market
The Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market is a must-visit if you’re in town for the weekend. Held every Saturday morning from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM (May through October), it’s one of the largest and most vibrant markets in the country, filled with fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and local artisan finds. Located in the Historic Court District, it’s an easy and enjoyable walk from Hotel Fort Des Moines—perfect for a relaxed morning stroll. Be sure to try O’Brien’s Own Granola (Allison loves the cookie dough flavor!), grab a Dutch letter from Strudl Haus, and explore all the delicious, farm-fresh goodies along the way.