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Des Moines, IA: Colorful Road Trip Guide to Local Food, Art & Hidden Gems
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items The ultimate, local-curated road trip guide to Des Moines! Discover the best local-only finds: from iconic landmarks and world-class public art to cozy coffee shops, authentic street-style food, and my favorite vintage antique malls. This list of 81 ...
Map
Sections
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Fresh Air & Happy Trails: Outdoor Fun
Cozy Sips & Sweet Bites: Bakeries, Brews, & Vinos
Taste the Joy: Local Bites & Must-Try Plates
Color & Creativity: Must-See Art & Shows
Hidden Gems for the Happy Life: Local Shops I Love
Fresh Air & Happy Trails: Outdoor Fun
Des Moines has some truly beautiful green spaces! This section features my favorite parks, scenic trails for easy walks, and colorful public gardens that are perfect for clearing your head and soaking up some vitamin D. Find your joy outside!
Skip the generic trip—this is the #1 activity I recommend! As the second largest farmer's market in the US, you'll need a full Saturday morning to wander through. It is absolutely worth it! You'll find every kind of fresh local produce, delicious str...
Downtown Farmers' Market in Des Moines, Iowa
A free, world-class outdoor art museum right in the heart of Downtown Des Moines! This is the ultimate spot for colorful, thought-provoking art and an amazing photo backdrop. Wander through the 4.4 acres and find Nomade (the giant mesh person) and th...
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
This is the ultimate hidden gem for garden lovers! Located right next to the Sculpture Park, this is where the famous magazine tests out all the new plants for their articles. You'll find 22 distinct, beautiful garden sections packed with color, inno...
Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden
Need to clear your head? The Botanical Gardens are my oasis of calm! The dome structure itself is architectural eye-candy, but the colorful and exotic plants inside are truly breathtaking. They host fun events almost every day of the week, and the on...
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
This is my go-to spot for instant calm and happy trails. Gray's Lake is a serene escape, offering a perfect combination of paved paths, trees, and water views—you won't believe it's so close to the city! I love walking or biking the full loop. It's t...
Gray's Lake Park
Iconic lights, cool views, and a must-see photo op! The High Trestle Trail Bridge is famous for its stunning light installation. Nestled among the trees, this picturesque spot is beautiful any time, but I highly recommend going around dusk or at nigh...
High Trestle Trail Bridge
The happiest place in Des Moines for dog lovers (and dogs!). My dog and I basically live here! Paws & Pints is an incredibly fun and safe place that offers everything: a delicious dog-friendly patio restaurant, a store full of toys and treats, gr...
Paws & Pints
My favorite way to spend a happy, sun-drenched summer day! Saylorville is the beach for summer months in Des Moines. It has a large, clean beach perfect for basking in the sunshine without feeling crowded. Pack a great book, a cozy blanket, and an um...
Saylorville Lake - US Army Corps of Engineers - Rock Island District
Go visit the LARGEST open skatepark in the ENTIRE UNITED STATES! This Olympic-caliber park is located right on the river and is a jaw-dropping sight, even if you don't skate. It has features for all skill levels (from beginner bowls to pro street cou...
Lauridsen Skatepark
Cozy Sips & Sweet Bites: Bakeries, Brews, & Vinos
Time for a little warmth and comfort! Whether you need a perfectly crafted latte, a delicious glass of local wine, or a sweet treat from a small-batch bakery, these are my go-to stops for a cozy break. Don't miss the treats—they are pure joy.
My absolute favorite cocktail lounge anywhere! This spot has a cozy feel, amazing drinks, and the kindest staff. It's the perfect atmosphere for a happy evening. Don't forget to grab a photo with the iconic Hello Marjorie neon sign on your way in—it'...
Hello, Marjorie
Great food, great beer, and a dog-friendly patio! Big Grove is a must for a relaxed afternoon. Their expansive space is perfect for hanging out, and you can absolutely bring your dog to enjoy the patio with you. It’s an incredibly joyful, laidback br...
Big Grove Brewery & Taproom
My go-to coffee shop and a true Des Moines institution! I love this place because it works for everything—I used to study here as a student, and now it's my favorite remote office when I work from home. The atmosphere is cozy, the coffee is strong, a...
Smokey Row
The ultimate spot for a sophisticated cocktail and delicious small plates! The Stuffed Olive is known for its extensive menu of martinis (over 100 options!). Make sure to check their specials menu for amazing deals, and order a few of their incredibl...
The Stuffed Olive Des Moines
Innovative, unique, and absolutely delicious ice cream and sorbet! Black Cat is a must for dessert lovers. Their flavors are always changing and always surprising, using high-quality ingredients to create a truly special treat. If you're feeling adve...
Black Cat Ice Cream | Award-Winning Artisanal Ice Cream
My essential first stop in Highland Park before a day of creative shopping! This coffee shop is bright, welcoming, and the perfect place to grab a deliciously brewed cup before exploring the surrounding neighborhood. It truly embodies the local, happ...
The Slow Down Coffee Co.
A Des Moines brewing institution! Exile is a great stop for excellent craft beer and a solid menu of elevated pub fare. Their location is perfect for meeting friends, and trying one of their flagship beers is a requirement for any local beer fan.
Exile Brewing Company
Skip the savory and go straight for the sweet, flaky joy! This is a relatively new, authentic French bakery. While I personally skip the savory items, everything else—especially the croissants, beignets, and tarts—is absolutely amazing. It’s the perf...
Nadia's French Bakery
If your goal is to try ALL the local Iowa beers, this is the place! The Iowa Taproom boasts an incredible selection of local brews on tap, making it the perfect one-stop shop for sampling the state's best craft creations. It’s a happy, reliable spot ...
The Iowa Taproom
The ultimate hidden gem for a high-end, colorful cocktail experience. This is a speakeasy attached to Hello Marjorie, featuring a super cool, intimate vibe and an interesting rotating menu of unique drinks. You need a reservation, but it's worth the ...
Good News, Darling
My favorite local brewery! They have fantastic year-round beers and an awesome taproom. You have to try the Bulldog (a reference to Drake University, my alma mater!)—it’s my favorite. A great, fun place to grab a local craft beer.
Confluence Brewing Company
A bit outside the city, but worth the drive for pure autumn joy! Their brunch is genuinely amazing, and it's a super fun fall stop packed with fresh-pressed apple cider donuts and all the best fall goodies. A perfect scenic detour for the family or a...
Wilson's Orchard & Farm (Des Moines)
Excellent beer in a bright, modern setting! Lua is known for its diverse and constantly changing selection of high-quality craft beers. It's a clean, happy space with great food, making it a perfect casual stop for lunch, dinner, or just a pint.
Lua Brewing
The best place to enjoy local Iowa wine! Jasper Winery has a beautiful facility and an expansive outdoor space, perfect for enjoying a glass of their delicious wine on a sunny day. They often host fantastic events and concerts, making it a fun and so...
Jasper Winery
Quirky, cute, and perfect for catching up with friends! Secret Admirer has a fun, colorful aesthetic with both cozy indoor and refreshing outdoor seating. It's known for its inventive cocktail menu and unique vibe. It's definitely a happy spot that b...
Secret Admirer
The perfect spot for fans of tequila! Don't be intimidated by the red light—inside, you'll find a lively atmosphere, great DJs, and a fantastic selection of tequila and inventive cocktails. It's a fun, energetic spot for a late-night drink on the tow...
Black Sheep | Des Moines, IA (@blacksheepdsm)
When you want a martini without the fuss! This is my go-to for a more casual, yet still delicious, martini. They sometimes have live music, and the atmosphere is always relaxed and friendly. It’s a great, easygoing spot to grab a drink.
the LiFT
So freaking cute and totally unique! Bellhop is a small but mighty bar known for its fun, creative, Tiki-style cocktails. The decor is colorful and quirky, making it a highly visual and joyful experience. It's an instant mini-vacation in a glass!
Bellhop
My favorite combination: amazing coffee and delicious breakfast sandwiches! Twisted Bean is a reliable, local spot for a morning pick-me-up. Their coffee is great, but seriously—don't miss their breakfast sandwiches for a quick, filling, and happy st...
Twisted Bean Coffee Company
The perfect stop for incredible pastries in the East Village! Scenic Route has beautiful, fresh-baked goods and a great café vibe. It’s an essential stop in the East Village when you need a caffeine fix and a sweet treat—it truly is a delightful, sce...
Scenic Route Bakery
Keep an eye out for this innovative ice cream artist! Beth does amazing pop-ups now and is soon to be opening her shop in Highland Park! Her flavors are unique and high-quality. You must try her Mulled Wine Sorbet—it's my favorite and a perfect examp...
Pints By Beth
Delicious, no-frills, classic donuts done perfectly! This is a beloved local gem for a reason. Grab a dozen and enjoy a genuinely great, simple donut. 🚨 Fun Fact: This shop may have inspired a donut shop written about in a bestselling romance novel by author Denise Williams👀 iykyk
Donut Hut
Skip the meal, but never skip the pastries! La Mie is a local favorite known for its exceptional French-style baking. While they offer a full menu, the real reason to visit is for the amazing breads, buttery croissants, and gorgeous sweet treats—they...
La Mie Bakery
Taste the Joy: Local Bites & Must-Try Plates
No road trip is complete without amazing food. I’ve included restaurants, from casual lunch spots to memorable dinner destinations, that serve up unique dishes guaranteed to make your taste buds happy. Prepare for some delicious, local flavor!
No stop in Des Moines is complete without a visit to this iconic spot! Zombie Burger is known for its incredible, over-the-top, and sometimes hilarious gourmet burgers, spiked milkshakes, and crazy zombie-themed décor. It’s a fun, colorful, and uniqu...
Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
This is NOT your average pizza joint! Get the famous Crab Rangoon Pizza—it's wild, creative, and tastes like pure joy. Fong's is a true Des Moines legend, fusing amazing pizza with fun Chinese-American flavors and a quirky Tiki bar vibe. They were ev...
Fong's Pizza
My year-round, go-to restaurant for consistently great food and a friendly pub atmosphere. Angry Goldfish is a local legend that always delivers. Their menu is creative, featuring elevated pub fare and awesome daily specials. Whether you're stopping ...
Angry Goldfish Pub & Eatery
My go-to brunch place for delicious food and divine drinks! Early Bird is bright, colorful, and instantly puts me in a good mood. I honestly love everything on their creative menu (the hash holes and Benedicts are highlights), but their cocktails and...
Early Bird - East Village
Best diner ever! You absolutely must try the hash browns—they are to die for! This is the definition of a classic, unbeatable diner experience. 🚨 Celebrity Fun Fact: This is Jason Momoa's favorite hometown breakfast spot, and they even named a dish ...
Waveland Cafe
Looking for authentic Mexican tacos in Des Moines? Tacos Mariana's is the place. This is the real deal! The focus here is on simple, perfect recipes, not on big bells and whistles. The meats are tender, the tortillas are fresh, and the prices are ama...
Tacos Mariana's
My favorite spot for awesome Southern comfort food, served for dinner AND brunch! Tupelo Honey takes Southern cuisine and elevates it. Their fried chicken and biscuits are divine, but don't skip the brunch menu—it's phenomenal. The vibe is happy and ...
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
The ultimate wholesome family dinner and comfort food experience! The Machine Shed embraces its Iowa roots with massive portions of classic American fare and a rustic, friendly atmosphere. It's the place to go for biscuits and gravy, huge chicken fri...
Machine Shed Restaurant Urbandale
I cannot hype up the bread here enough—it's phenomenal! South Union is a beloved downtown spot that truly excels at the fundamentals. Whether you get one of their delicious, fresh-made sandwiches (try the ciabatta!) or just grab a loaf of their Garli...
South Union Bread Cafe
My favorite spot for great vibes and a phenomenal deal! Their sushi is super fresh, but the real secret weapon is their Happy Hour! You can get great prices on their signature sushi rolls, apps, and cocktails. Grab a colorful tiki drink or sake and e...
Blue Sushi Sake Grill
My favorite spot for a fun, energetic vibe and incredible Latin flavors! Malo’s atmosphere is beautiful (check out the murals!), but the real star of the show is the food. You absolutely HAVE to order the nachos—they are huge, loaded, and easily the ...
Malo
If you love incredible, authentic Italian food, run—don't walk! Centro is known for having some of the best handmade pasta in the Midwest. The atmosphere is vibrant and perfect for a special night out. The menu is always a delight, and you can truly ...
Centro
Looking for the best authentic Greek food in the city? Stop right here. This place is a long-time local favorite for good reason. You must get the Gyro—it’s packed with perfectly seasoned meat, fresh veggies, and amazing tzatziki sauce. It's a satisf...
Olympic Flame Restaurant
Authentic, flavorful Thai food, no matter your spice preference! I can personally vouch that even if you're a wimp like me and order zero spice, the dishes are still unbelievably rich and delicious. Their curries and noodle dishes are packed with fla...
Thai Flavors
For delicious, reliable, and authentic Chinese and Vietnamese food, A Dong is a local institution. Their menu is massive, everything is made fresh, and it's a great place to go with a group so you can try a little bit of everything! A cozy, neighborh...
A Dong Restaurant
The best place to grab a quick, fresh, and delicious Banh Mi sandwich! I was instantly hooked after just one visit. The sandwiches are perfectly balanced with crispy bread, tender meat, and fresh, crunchy vegetables. If you're looking for a delightfu...
Paris Banh Mi
Color & Creativity: Must-See Art & Shows
If you love a vibrant, creative space, this section is for you! I've curated the city’s best museums, fun public art installations (perfect for photo ops!), and local venues where you can catch a unique performance. These are the spots that add a spa...
My favorite place to watch a movie! If you're tired of mainstream blockbusters, Fleur is your must-visit. This charming venue features a vintage aesthetic and primarily shows a curated selection of indie and prestige films you won't find anywhere els...
Fleur Cinema & Café
History and art house cinema meet in this beautifully restored landmark! The Varsity is a non-profit cinema dedicated to screening independent, international, and art house films that are truly "movies worth talking about." The renovation includes st...
Varsity Cinema
The premier spot for live music in the East Village! Wooly's is known for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, hosting a wide range of touring acts and local bands. The venue has a cool, industrial-chic vibe—perfect for getting up close t...
Wooly's
An elegant, sultry Jazz Cabaret with incredible atmosphere. Noce is the perfect destination for a sophisticated night out, featuring live jazz and other classy performances in a beautifully renovated industrial space with original hardwood floors and...
Noce
Your ticket to world-class culture! This organization brings an extraordinary range of live entertainment to Des Moines. Look here for amazing Broadway shows (like Wicked and SIX), major comedy acts, and the National Geographic Live speaker series. D...
Des Moines Performing Arts
The main stage for the biggest, must-see shows! The Civic Center is the largest venue operated by Des Moines Performing Arts and is home to the famous Willis Broadway Series. If you want to catch a touring production of a Tony Award-winning musical o...
Des Moines Civic Center
A three-day feast for the senses that brings the world to Des Moines! This free festival is an absolute highlight, featuring delicious cuisine from over 20 different countries, live cultural performances, and music. It's an explosion of global flavor...
World Food & Music Festival in Des Moines, Iowa
A huge, joyful celebration of Asian culture, food, and tradition! Held every May for Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, this festival is vibrant, family-friendly, and completely free. You'll find incredible street food, dazzling dance pe...
CelebrAsian
Consistently ranked as one of the best art festivals in the country! Located in the beautiful Western Gateway Park, this event (usually held in June) transforms downtown into an outdoor gallery featuring over 170 of the nation's top artists. The atmo...
Des Moines Arts Festival
The ultimate hub for A-list concerts, major comedy tours, and professional sports! Casey's Center is a massive arena that hosts big-name acts (like Zach Bryan and Elton John), plus it's home to the Iowa Wild hockey and Iowa Wolves basketball teams. C...
Casey's Center
Nothing beats a sunny summer night watching baseball by the river! Principal Park is the scenic home of the Iowa Cubs (the Chicago Cubs' Triple-A team). It's a gorgeous stadium with downtown views, great food, and a fantastic, relaxed atmosphere. Gra...
Principal Park
Iowa's favorite family resort for classic coasters and modern thrills! Adventureland features over 45 rides, including high-thrill coasters like the Monster and the Tornado, plus the massive Adventure Bay water park (admission is included!). It's a d...
Adventureland Resort
A fantastic place for family fun and a colorful connection to wildlife! Blank Park Zoo is perfectly sized for a relaxing visit, featuring the African Boardwalk (hello, rhinos and giraffes!), the tropical Discovery Center, and the unique Australian Ad...
Blank Park Zoo
More than just books—this is a gorgeous piece of architecture and a hub for creativity! The Central Library, designed by noted architect David Chipperfield, is an absolute downtown gem. Go see the beautiful design, browse the Iowa Collection (local h...
Des Moines Public Library - Central Library
The ultimate nostalgia trip for adults! Up-Down is a high-energy barcade featuring over 60 classic arcade games and pinball machines from the '80s and '90s, all for just a quarter per play! Pair your Pac-Man or Skee-Ball session with one of their mas...
Up-Down DSM
An arcade bar with a hilarious medical twist! Located in West Des Moines, The Operating Room features a quirky medical theme (bartenders wear scrubs!) alongside dozens of modern and retro arcade and pinball games. They are famous for their alcoholic ...
The Operating Room West Des Moines
Hands-on, brains-on fun for the whole family! The Science Center of Iowa (SCI) is packed with colorful, interactive exhibits that make learning exciting. Go explore space in the 'Why The Sky?' exhibit, build and test creations in the 'Makers Studio,'...
Science Center of Iowa
Hidden Gems for the Happy Life: Local Shops I Love
Ready for some retail therapy? This is where I share my personal secret spots in Des Moines. From the coziest independent bookstores where I find my next 5-star read, to the best places for colorful vintage and antique finds, and even my go-to nail s...
An absolutely adorable indie bookstore with a powerful neighbor! I also adore these booksellers; their recommendations are always spot-on. What makes this a must-visit is their sister business next door, The Bank, which hosts the best vintage, antiqu...
The Little Book
A fantastic two-story shop known for rotating guests and colorful style! Located in the fun Highland Park area, Divine Times Vintage offers two floors of unique collectibles, vintage clothing, and home decor. They often host pop-up curators and local...
Divine Times Vintage
My favorite place to add a bit of colorful, living joy to my home! This gorgeous boutique houseplant shop is packed with unique plants and cool accessories. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and passionate—I never leave without a new plan...
Art Terrarium
No one leaves Des Moines without a RAYGUN souvenir! Known as 'The Greatest Store In The Universe,' RAYGUN is famous for its quirky, colorful, and highly quotable shirts, posters, and accessories that celebrate the Midwest with a sense of humor. More ...
RAYGUN - The Greatest Store In The Universe
My favorite little escape for a new read! I adore the booksellers here—they are so knowledgeable and genuinely passionate. I can't believe how many treasures they fit into this cozy space! This indie shop is a true literary hub, regularly hosting aut...
Storyhouse Bookpub
My go-to for self-care, and the most size-inclusive spa I've ever found. The staff truly care about their clients' comfort and wellness, specializing in customized services like massage, waxing, and natural nail care. They focus on making everyone fe...
East Village Spa
The ultimate vintage shopping experience and a treasure hunter's paradise! With over 450 dealers housed in one massive space, I've been going for years and still find unique, colorful, maximalist gems every single time. You can find everything from v...
Brass Armadillo Antique Mall - Des Moines
A delightful, walkable destination packed with charm, color, and history! This historic railroad district is a premier shopping destination. You'll find over 160 specialty shops, art galleries, unique boutiques, and antique stores (like the ones in t...
Historic Valley Junction
Your portal to games, books, dice, and more! This is one of the most welcoming and friendly game stores around. They specialize in Role Playing Games (D&D!), Board Games, Graphic Novels, and unique dice sets. The staff is fantastic, and yes—you'l...
Dungeon's Gate
Step back in time to the colorful 50s, 60s, and 70s! This family-owned shop is famous for specializing in all things groovy and mid-century. You can find everything from clothes and records to barware and furniture. Their items are carefully curated ...
Funky Finds Vintage & Retro
A happy place designed for fun, food, and gaming! The Rook Room is a dedicated game lounge and café where you can choose from 700+ board games, puzzles, and TTRPGs to play for as long as you like. The staff are game experts who will teach you how to ...
Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe
A beloved neighborhood bookstore that truly champions local authors! Beaverdale Books is a cozy, community hub with an excellent selection in all genres, including a huge Iowa Author section (which is perfect for finding a unique literary souvenir). ...
Beaverdale Books
A beautiful, people-centric bookstore that celebrates diversity and has a café! Proudly Asian and woman-owned, this is one of the very few Asian-owned bookstores in the Midwest. They have a strong focus on social justice and books by authors of color...
Reading in Public Bookstore + Cafe
A massive, multi-dealer antique mall where you're guaranteed to find a hidden gem! Memory Lane has a huge selection covering all eras, but is especially great for glassware, vintage clothing, furniture, and unique collectibles. If you love the thrill...
Memory Lane | West Des Moines IA
The destination for high-quality, unique antique and vintage furniture! The Picker Knows is known for its wide selection of well-restored, unique pieces. If you are looking for that perfect maximalist statement piece for your home (think colorful, bo...
The Picker Knows Antiques & Collectibles
A professional, top-notch spot for self-care and beautiful nail artistry! This highly-rated salon is known for its experienced technicians and focus on customer satisfaction, offering a wide range of services including manicures, pedicures, and dippi...
The Nail Lounge