Jocelynn & Christopher
Things To Do
Smash Park
This fun place has something for everyone, and it's only 3 minutes from the hotel! Smash Park offers a full service bar, arcade games, bar games, full service kitchen, and most importantly- pickle ball! If you're looking to play pickle ball, we suggest you reserve a court early, as they fill up fast!
Jordan Creek Town Center
If you're looking to shop or for a quick bite to eat, Jordan Creek Town Center has a ton of options! Only 4 minutes away from the hotel, Jordan Creek town Center houses a two story mall, shops, and food such as Bar Louie, Buffalo Wild Wings, Cheesecake Factory, and more! Look over their website for a full list of shops and dining options!
East Village
Our favorite spot in downtown! While this is destination is about 15 minutes away, it is worth the trip! They have a ton of great shops, coffee shops, dining options such as Zombie Burger and Dirt Burger (household favorites for us!) and fun bars like Up-Down (a vintage arcade bar!) and the Nightingale! Check out their website for their full list of shops, dining options, and bars!
Gray's Lake
Gray's Lake is a wonderful place to be outdoors, and have a beautiful view of it! If you like to bike/walk, this path around the lake will surely put you in good spirits! This trail is about 18 minutes from the hotel!
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
If you love nature and want to breathe the freshest air in Des Moines, the Botanical Garden is the perfect place! No matter the weather our wedding weekend brings, this indoor inclosure provides a beautiful nature feel, with plants from all over the country! This destination is 18 minutes away!
Cheese Bar
One of our ALL time favorite places to eat in Des Moines! You can never go wrong with too much cheese! Ranging from gourmet grilled cheeses, macs, charcuterie boards, great beers and wines; you will never be disappointed here! If you decide to dine at this wonderful restaurant, we recommend dining earlier than the normal lunch/dinner rush! They don't take reservations, and the tables fill up fast! This restaurant is 13 minutes from the hotel
Eggs and Jam
One of our ALL time favorite breakfast/brunch spots- and it's 90's hip hop themed! They have some amazing unique takes on their cuisine, fantastic drinks, and even better decor! Back when we lived 5 minutes away, we were here almost every weekend! If you're looking for an awesome breakfast/brunch, this restaurant is 9 minutes away from the hotel! We recommend calling in a reservation as this place fills up quickly!
Dirt Burger
Our favorite vegan restaurant in the city, you don't have to be vegan to get a kick out of their food! Some of the BEST plant based food we have ever had, and cheaply priced too! If you're looking for a new take on burgers, fries, and shakes, this is the best place to do it! Located in East Village it is about 18 minutes away from the hotel!
Central Standard
One of our favorites close to our home! They have a ton of options- from Pizza, to burgers, mac and cheese, salad and more, there's tons of options to make anyone happy! They have a full service bar and quite the amazing array of shakes! Located in Waukee, it is about 15 minutes away from the hotel!
Taste of New York
If you're not looking to go out during your visit here, stay in with a Taste of New York Pizza! Their pizzas are stellar, and we personally get the Margherita pizza every other week! Take a look at their menu and have a cozy night in with some great pizza! This restaurant is 6 minutes away from the hotel!
Scratch Cupcakes
Have a sweet tooth? Craving something sweet before our wedding cake on Sunday? Scratch cupcakes offer the best seasonal cupcakes in the city, and their menu varies from day to day! This cupcakery is 6 minutes from the hotel!