Things To Do
Downtown Des Moines Farmer's Market
One of the biggest and best farmers markets in the country! It's no joke! A great place to grab Saturday morning breakfast or a pastry. Food, art, live music, and great people and dog watching. We love grabbing breakfast and enjoying it while sitting in the grass by the river. 7am-noon Saturday on Court Ave, between 5th St. and the river.
Horizon Line Coffee
Great coffee, wonderful people.
St. Kilda
Great spot for brunch, featuring delicious food, coffee and cocktails. Opens Saturday & Sunday at 8am. There are three locations downtown, but I recommend the one at 1013 Locust St. It is close to the hotels and has a big outdoor patio.
Historic East Village
Historic East Village is just across the river from downtown and it's a great neighborhood to walk around and check out local boutiques, bars, and restaurants. Our fav shops are Domestica, KIN, Preservation, Eden, and Ephemera. Grab some food and a cocktail at The Continental, or a beer at Peace Tree Brewery. The Iowa Tap Room has 99 taps of Iowa craft beer (and meh food). Find yummy vegan burgers at Dirt Burger, tiki drinks at Bellhop, and smoothies and froyo at Nosh Cafe. Out late? Duck into Black Sheep, a tiny underground bar featuring tequila and vinyl djs. If pinball and arcade games are more your style, be sure to check out UpDown (bonus: they have excellent beers on tap)!
Des Moines Art Center
Venture outside of downtown and explore our beautiful Des Moines Art Center, designed by several renowned architects. Take a stroll through the outdoor rose gardens and the pond in Greenwood Park. Free entry!
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
One of our favorite spots in town! Explore the conservatory and then enjoy the beautiful outdoor gardens. $10 entry fee.
Gray's Lake Park
Rent a BCycle and take the trail from downtown to Gray's Lake! Lovely loop around lake and then stop by Confluence Brewery for a beer on the patio. or go even farther and explore the beautiful Water Works Park and have a glass of wine at Jasper Winery. You can also rent paddle boats, canoes, and sailboats!
The Lift
Andrea's favorite bar. Enough said.
Hello, Marjorie
Best cocktails in town. Cozy vibes, good music.
Art Terrarium
Oh you know, just a little plant shop. ;D