A Lipman family tradition is our early Saturday morning visits to the Des Moines farmers market! The Market happens every Saturday in the summer from 7 a.m. – Noon in the Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines. If you've seen Dani wear her chunky statement necklaces, or bring back a bottle of fruit wine, it was probably from one of her favorite vendors here! There are also tons of yummy food available. You could eat your way through and be extremely satisfied.
Historic Valley Junction was a railroad hub and commercial district in Des Moines since the 19th century! It is now a street filled with both old and new shops from bakeries, thrift stores, coffee shops (a cat cafe!), and more. Highly recommend visiting this area! Dani's favorite stores here: Coffee Cats Cafe, St Kilda Collective (brunch), Atomic Garage (vintage/antiques)
The sculpture park in Downtown Des Moines is filled with art from internationally acclaimed artists. The park makes for a lovely walk after a bit of shopping. The 4.4 acre park, located within a major crossroads of the urban grid, creates a pedestrian-friendly entryway to downtown Des Moines. The Pappajohns’ contribution of more than 30 works for the park is the most significant donation of artwork ever made to the Des Moines Art Center. Since the park opened in 2009, it has become a gathering space for the Des Moines Metro community, a beacon for both tourists and residents.
A Lipman family favorite for every birthday cake. The Bake Shoppe has delicious treats including cakes, cupcakes, tarts, cookies, petit fours, and challahs. Dani orders their lemon cakes for her birthday and can never have enough!
Dani and Cal love to visit botanical gardens, and Des Moines' own greenery never disappoints. They have tons to see, especially on a nice day. When you're done, you can wander over to the nearby Robert D. Ray Asian Garden, which features a stunning pavilion overlooking the river.
Located in Downtown Des Moines, Fong's is a staple for pizza in the area. They are famous for their flavor options such as a crab rangoon pizza, Mac & Cheese pizza, and of course their honey garlic pizza. A MUST if you're planning to check out downtown.
Zombie Burger is located in the Historic East Village in Downtown Des Moines. This location is the best one. As the name suggests, it is a zombie themed burger joint--and their burgers are always overflowing with toppings, sauces, and goodies inside! Their Mushroom Apocalypse with a breaded mushroom and cheese croquette? Absolute favorite. Their cereal shakes are also incredible. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu!
An excellent brunch option in West Des Moines. Eggs and Jam is a cute little spot with fun art on the walls, classic hip-hop hits, and extremely large pancakes that are sure to fill you up. Dani loves their vegan Hash State of Mind.
Adorably chic and in the middle of the West Glen Town Center, The Breakfast Club is another great brunch stop in West Des Moines. They've got plenty of sweet and savory options including a crepe flight and some of the best French toast you'll ever have. Definitely worth waking up early!
Right next to a Super Target, this area is filled with fun shops and food options. Dani's favorite treats from here are Smoothie King, Jimmy John's, Hurts Donuts, Banana Leaf (Asian Fusion).
Probably the best Salmon burgers you'll ever find. Their crab rangoon dip is divine! Dani, her mom, and grandmother frequent this one all the time!
Any time is the best time for sushi. Blue has plenty to offer, and you can explore downtown Des Moines when you're done.
Paris Banh Mi Cafe & Bakery in Windsor Heights, IA combines traditional Vietnamese sandwiches with a touch of French flair. Enjoy fresh-baked baguettes, croissants, or delve into their array of slushes and teas. They also offer delicious Korean street food-style corn dogs/cheese dogs, coated in potatoes, ramen, Hot Cheetos, or Takis!