Things To Do
The Woodland Realm Urban Garden
Come explore the whimsical urban garden that Ryan, Maggie and friends have been creating since 2020. The handcrafted structures and black locust fence were created by Ryan from mostly reclaimed and locally harvested materials. We grow herbs, veggies, fruit, hops, grapes, and mushrooms on a half-acre lot in the heart of the city.
Daisy Chain Coffee
Located in the East Village, this shop serves up some of the best coffee in Des Moines. Maggie has worked here since it first opened in 2020. The owner is a beekeeper, so there's local honey for sale and bee themed decor. It's also conveniently located by Raygun, Storyhouse Bookpub, Porch Light Antiques, AllSpice Culinarium, and other local shops/restaurants.
Jester Park Nature Center
Located on 1,600+ acres, there's plenty to do & see at our venue besides the nuptials! The nature center features exhibits on the wetlands, prairie, and woodlands of Iowa, as well as the history of indigenous peoples of the area. There's a golf course, equestrian center, bouldering wall, herds of bison and elk, and a natural playscape. Our favorite thing to do here is hit the hiking trails and peep the fall foliage around adjacent Saylorville Lake.
Des Moines Art Center
Extensive collection of modern art, sculptures, paintings, and more. Plus admission is free! The buildings themselves are really cool, first designed in an Art Deco style by Eliel Saarinen in the 1940s with a modern addition designed by I.M. Pei in the 1960s. We like the outdoor reflecting pool and rose garden.
Greenwood - Ashworth Park
A wooded enclave located near our house, this park is our favorite spot to take a hike and forage in town. It's located right behind the Art Center, with a pond, tennis courts, and a playground. We typically park down by Ashworth Pool and duck into the dirt trails to the SE.
Lachele's Fine Foods
We're lucky enough to have the best burgers in the state just steps from our front porch. This cozy eatery punches way above it's size with delicious food, neighborly atmosphere, and insane daily specials. They also have vegan/vegetarian options. Pro tip: you won't regret trying the Uncle Denny!
Des Moines Biergarten
Located under some towering oaks and pines in Water Works Park, this German-style biergarten is a great spot to spend a laidback afternoon or evening. They offer steins of local and German beer, as well as street eats like hotdogs and pretzels. There's a natural playscape and fishing ponds nearby, and a paved trail to walk or bike around Gray's Lake for views of downtown.
Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe
Des Moines' only board game lounge, this welcoming space has over 700 games, a full cafe menu, cocktails, non-alcoholic poptails, and more.