Things To Do
Iowa State Fairgrounds
The internationally acclaimed Iowa State Fair is the single largest event in the state of Iowa and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country. Happening August 7-17, 2025; it is a unique experience and excellent addition to your itinerary if you plan to spend a few days in the Des Moines Area!
Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market
The Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market is in the Historic Court District on Saturdays from 7:00 a.m.-Noon. Nearly 275 local vendors with fresh produce, farm and artisan packaged food, art, prepared foods, and more are available, with plenty of restaurant and shops nearby as well. The Farmer's Market is just a couple blocks away from the Ceremony location and the downtown hotel, making it easy to check out the morning of the wedding!
Breweries and Tap Rooms
Des Moines has a bustling craft beer scene, with roughly 20 breweries and many taprooms in the area. You can't go wrong with any of the watering holes, but here are a few our favorites: Exile, Confluence, Big Grove, Iowa Tap Room, El Bait Shop, and The Hall
The Fat Putter Des Moines
The Fat Putter is an indoor minigolf experience with a cocktail bar! Additionally, they're adding an arcade to add to the fun!
Iowa State Capitol
The Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines signifies the prodigious spirit of Iowa. Built between 1871 and 1886, this magnificent building represents, both inside and out, one of the nation's finest examples of 19th century architecture. Tours are available to the public for from Monday to Saturday and can be scheduled by following the instructions on the website below.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
The Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines, Iowa is a 4.4-acre outdoor gallery featuring over 30 sculptures by world-renowned artists. It is open to visitors and offers a peaceful stroll surrounded by creativity. Located in downtown Des Moines this is a great place to stroll through with a morning coffee, or a nice spot to check out between the ceremony and reception!
Adventureland Park
For our friends and family looking for a thrill, Adventure Land Park is the place to be! Just 20 minutes northeast of Des Moines, Adventureland Iowa offers over 100 rides and attractions for all ages, from kiddie rides to thrilling roller coasters like the new Flying Viking and Monster infinity coaster. The park also features live show and a massive waterpark to cool down in the summer.
Smash Park Des Moines
Smash Park is a one-of-a-kind entertainment and events venue with a large outdoor patio where you can play, drink and eat all day long. Enjoy indoor and outdoor pickleball courts, axe-throwing, countless games, live music, delicious food and craft beverages from one of four bars.
Topgolf Des Moines
Topgolf is more than just a driving range; it’s a sports entertainment complex that combines golf with technology and social elements. The lively atmosphere, combined with food, drinks, and music, makes it a perfect destination for outings with friends and family.
Jordan Creek Town Center
Jordan Creek Town Center is the largest shopping center in the state of Iowa. With 142 stores in the mall, and many stores in the blocks surrounding the mall it is the best place to shop in the Des Moines Area.
Outlets of Des Moines
Outlets of Des Moines is a truly distinctive shopping destination featuring 50+ outlet stores including some of the best names in fashion. Outlets of Des Moines is conveniently located at the I-80 and US-65 interchange, just 20 minutes away from Downtown Des Moines.