If you find yourself in Des Moines, I got you!
Des Moines is full of hidden gems. Here are just a few...
Outdoor Activities
Located in the heart of Des Moines, you'll find Grays Lake. 2 mile walking trail, connects to bike trail, rent paddle boats, kayaks, etc. Grays Lake is a gem you won't want to miss.
Largest farmers market in the Midwest! The Market takes place every Saturday, May through October, from 7 a.m. - Noon in the Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines. Find local produce, local artists, live music, and great food. My favorite is...
Des Moines isn’t lacking trails but The High Trestle Trail is a can’t miss. It is a paved recreational trail that runs through the Polk, Story, Boone, and Dallas counties. The trail's name is derived from a former 1913 bridge that spanned the Des Moi...
Seasonal blooms showcased outdoors & in a geodesic dome, plus educational programs & art shows.
Need a place to let your dog run off some excess energy? Dogs of all shapes and sizes enjoy romping through the 10-acre fenced play area of the Raccoon River Park Dog Park. The facility is open daily, year round from 6:30 a.m. until dusk and features...
Restaurants
I've lived in Manhattan and spent a fair share of time on Long Island. This is as close as you'll get to NY style pizza. Go for the pizza and stay for the Calzones!
Prime cuts of beef, seafood & a large wine selection offered in an elegant, clubby setting.
No frills. Seated fast. Served fast. And ohhh so good.
Whether you're ordering a multi-course meal or grabbing a drink and pizza at the bar, Centro's lively, casual yet upscale atmosphere makes it perfect for dining. Please try the Espresso Martini!
There are many Jethro's BBQ places but the southside location is the best. Shhhh no one knows that yet.
Classic neighborhood joint in the right neighborhood. Great food. Don't miss this one.
Veteran restaurant serving American cuisine & pasta dishes in a classy space with a full bar. Great staff. Where the locals go.
Other Food & Drinks
A coffee house with an old-fashioned soda fountain and a diner menu. Their tagline is We're here to make people's day!
Live music on Thursday nights in the summer. It’s a can’t miss with beers from a local brewery, food trucks, and Iowa wine. Bring a lawn chair!
There's also a Speakeasy in the same building. If you can find it.
Get there early. This place is popular with the locals.
Such a fun place. The experience is worth the wait.
With several locations around the metro, you're sure to be near this award winning deli.
Arts & Entertainment
Great for the kids and the kids at heart!
Top notch service and conveniently located in Merle Hay Mall where you'll find plenty of things to do to entertain the family.
Hot spot featuring diverse acts in a space with up-to-date lighting & sound systems plus a bar.
From musicals and plays to comedians and concerts. The Civic Center is a host to major talent acts.
Exciting 3 day musical festival just outside of Des Moines. If you're feeling adventurous bring a tent and camp!
Check out the schedule. There's something for everybody.
The hotel has an indoor water park!
Local Favorites
They offer traditional yoga, barre classes, sculpt classes, etc. Drop ins accepted.
In the East Village. A part of town you want to see anyway. Plenty to do within walking distance. Local restaurants, shopping, bars.
DIVE bar. This isn't a pretend dive bar it's a real one. And it's in the East Village where there's plenty to do within walking distance.