CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE
Guide 20 23
Planner’s
LEADING AND SUPPORTING COMMUNITY PARTNERS CATCH DES MOINES REPRESENTS
CITY OF ALTOONA altoona-iowa.com
CITY OF ANKENY ankenyiowa.gov
CITY OF BONDURANT cityofbondurant.com
CITY OF CLIVE cityofclive.com
CITY OF DES MOINES dsm.city
CITY OF GRIMES grimesiowa.gov
CITY OF INDIANOLA indianolaiowa.gov
CITY OF JOHNSTON cityofjohnston.com
CITY OF PLEASANT HILL pleasanthilliowa.org
CITY OF POLK CITY polkcityia.gov
CITY OF URBANDALE urbandale.org
CITY OF WEST DES MOINES wdm.iowa.gov
CITY OF WINDSOR HEIGHTS windsorheights.org
POLK COUNTY polkcountyiowa.gov
Catch Des Moines is designated an Official Accredited
Destination Marketing Organization by Destinations
International Destination Marketing Accreditation Program. The accreditation program defines quality and performance issues in destination marketing and recognizes destination marketing organizations that meet or exceed industry standards.
The Planner’s Guide is a directory of the Marketing Partners of Catch Des Moines. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Catch Des Moines. Every effort was made to ensure accuracy of the information in this guide as of press time; however, Catch Des Moines assumes no liability for errors, changes or omissions. Catch Des Moines also makes no endorsement, representation or warranty regarding the suitability, quality or availability of any goods or services listed in the publication. Listings are provided by the subject companies, and Catch Des Moines shall not be responsible or liable for any inaccuracy, omission or infringement of any third party’s rights therein, or for personal injury or any other damage or injury whatsoever. Please contact Catch Des Moines with comments or corrections.
CENTER
3 CONTENTS 4 About us 4 GREETINGS 6 OUR SERVICES 38 INCLUSION 40 STAFF LISTING 20 Hotels 22 LISTINGS 26 Around Town 28 MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS 30 FLAVOR OF GREATER DES MOINES 32 PUBLIC ART 33 HISTORIC HOODS 34 CENTRALLY LOCATED 36 DOWNTOWN MAP 8 Venues 10 IOWA EVENTS CENTER 12 IOWA STATE FAIR 14 MIDAMERICAN RECPLEX 16 LISTINGS 18 SPORTS PLANNER'S GUIDE 20 23
Greetings from Greater Des Moines!
All those things you’ve heard about Iowa Nice. It’s all true. Our vibe is decidedly warm and authentic and once you’re here, you’ll understand why Greater Des Moines is the fastest growing metro in the Midwest.
In Iowa’s capital city and its surrounding communities, your attendees can enjoy urban amenities and authentic experiences in a welcoming and drivable location (Des Moines is within a days drive for 25 percent of the country!).
Greater Des Moines provides adventure without risk, planning without the hassle, and rewards without the high cost.
What makes us unique and different? A 4.4-acre downtown sculpture garden. Hip, walkable neighborhoods like the Historic East Village and Historic Court District. Authentic eats like Steak de Burgo and Crab Rangoon pizza. The most beautiful capitol building in the country. Not to mention world class event spaces like the Iowa Events Center (with attached Hilton Hotel), Iowa State Fairgrounds, and new sports venues like the Lauridsen Skatepark (largest in the country) and MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex in West Des Moines.
And when it comes to hosting your attendees, rest assured, events are our thing. An award-winning arts festival. A nationally renowned state fair. One of the best farmers’ markets in America. The Dew Tour. IRONMAN. World Pork Expo. Whether you’re hosting techies or Trekkies, athletes or ag leaders, take advantage of our state-of-the-art events center or choose from one-of-a-kind meeting spots (and yes, we can even host you on a farm).
Catch Des Moines’ friendly and professional Sales and Event Experience teams are here to help you plan your meeting, convention, or event. We can help find the perfect venue, boost attendance with custom marketing materials and social media efforts, and enhance the attendee experience with personalized services and tools. So come to Des Moines, where the S’s are silent, but the planners are singing our praises.
Cheers!
Greg Edwards PRESIDENT & CEO CATCH DES MOINES
ABOUT
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WE LOVE TO PLAY HOST AND IT SHOWS. OUR COMMUNITY IS FRIENDLY, CLEAN, SAFE, AND INCLUSIVE.
FUN FACT
700,000 Population Pronunciation Des Moines. Only the S's are silent.
13,000+ hotel Rooms in greater Des Moines
5,000 Largest Hotel Block
2,800+ downtown HOtel rooms
23 Convention hotels
75+ Annual Events drawing in more than 5,000 attendees each
4-mile climate-Controlled downtown skywalk
160 Daily flights
¼ of the country can drive to Des Moines in one day
SERVICES Our
FIND THE TOOLS YOU NEED TO MAKE YOUR NEXT EVENT
A SUCCESS! The Catch Des Moines Event Experience team is here to help you brainstorm new ideas to enhance your event. We’ll make it easy for you and your attendees to enjoy an excellent event experience in Greater Des Moines.
Local Expertise
It takes a village to plan a top-notch event and that’s what our team is here for. From facility, restaurant, and itinerary recommendations to ways of marketing your event throughout the city — we’re here to help!
Create a Unique Experience
Whether you’re looking for team building opportunities or an insider’s guide on all things Greater Des Moines, we’ll help make your event unique and memorable. We also have equipment and materials for you to utilize and to help elevate your event.
Promote Your Event
You’ve selected Des Moines and now you need to get the word out. Use our resources to help highlight your future host site with videos, photos, an events calendar, deals and discounts, and so much more!
Greater Des Moines Maps
Check out our maps and visitors guide before your event. Take advantage of these complimentary materials so attendees can explore the city without turning on their GPS devices.
Welcome Materials & Tools
From banners, signs, and letters to ice chests, coolers, and sunscreen, we have it all to welcome your group to the city. Think outside the box and we will help make it possible.
Staffing Assistance
The Catch Crew is a group of city experts who are helpful when it comes to promotion and registration tactics. They can be scheduled for your event. Contact your Event Experience Coordinator for more details. All we need to know is the date, location, time, and the on-site coordinator(s) information to make this possible. *Fees may apply for this service.
Housing Services
The Greater Des Moines Housing Bureau provides an online housing service enabling guests to book their rooms at any participating event hotel in one centralized location using Meetingmax software. Room availability is updated in real-time and guests are able to book 24/7 via a customized web link. There is a fee for this service, which is included in the hotel room rate.
ABOUT
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catchdesmoines.com/planners/planner-toolkit
USA TRACK & FIELD
IOWA CAUCUS
NCAA MEN'S BASKETBALL
LIONS CLUB
THE FLYNN BARN, LIVING HISTORY FARMS
Host an event at a farm that hosted a sitting president and the pope. Built in 1871, Flynn Barn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is available to rent from May ― October. Because when it comes to playing host, events are kind of our thing, from farm to conference table.
EVENT
PLANNING
Find the resources you need to make your event a roaring success. Select from an extensive list of sought-after decorators, videographers, local printers, and more. Enhance the event experience with volunteer opportunities or team building activities. Browse city resources and rental companies to complete your vision. It’s easy to fulfill all your planning needs in Greater Des Moines.
catchdesmoines.com/suppliers
ABOUT 7 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE
VENUES
GREATER DES MOINES IS YOUR DESTINATION for meetings, conventions, and sporting events. Whether you have a group of 10 or 10,000, the right-sized facility with all the desired amenities awaits you in Greater Des Moines.
It all starts with the state-of-the-art Iowa Events Center, with 37 meeting rooms and 226,000 square feet of total space — over five corn fields worth! If you really want to lean into the Midwestern stereotype, we also have off-site venues like a working, educational farm and the nation’s best fairgrounds.
PAST AND FUTURE NOTABLE CONVENTIONS AND SPORTING EVENTS
BMW Motorcycle Owners of America
International Rally – 2018
Farm Progress Show – Bi-Annual
Jr. High National Finals
Rodeo – 2021, 2024, 2025
P.E.O. Convention of International Chapter – 2019
National Speech and Debate Tournament – 2024, 2025
USA/Canada Lions Annual Forum – 2021
World Pork Expo – Annual Kennedy Center Region
5 American College Theater Festival – 2017, 2018, 2023, 2024
National Governor’s Association Summer Meeting – 2016
American Cheese Society Conference and Competition – 2016, 2023
USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic National Championships – 2019, 2022
Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Annual Convention – 2018
NCAA Division I Wrestling National Championships – 2013
International Harvester Collectors Red Power Round Up – 2017
USA Track & Field Outdoor Championships – 2018, 2019
The General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) – 2019
First in the Nation Caucus Dew Tour – 2021, 2022
Certified Piedmontese IRONMAN North American Championship – 2022
Nike Tournament of Champions – 2020, 2021
LPGA Solheim Cup – 2017
AAU Junior Olympic Games – 2014, 2018, 2023
NCAA Men’s Basketball 1st and 2nd Rounds – 2016, 2019, 2023
USA Volleyball High Performance Championships – 2015
American Public Works Association Snow Conference – 2017
American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators – 2015
BIO World Congress – 2019
VENUES 8 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE
VENUES
catchdesmoines.com/facilities
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WORLD FOOD PRIZE GREATER DES MOINES BOTANICAL GARDEN Our
DRAKE STADIUM LAURIDSEN SKATEPARK
IOWA EVENTS CENTER
The IEC is a unique combination of three connected venues: Wells Fargo Arena, Hy-Vee Hall, and Community Choice Convention Center. Potentially the only venue in the country that has hosted the Presidential Caucuses, the American Cheese Society, and Taylor Swift.
Did you know? Des Moines has 60+ unique venues.
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Iowa Events Center
The Iowa Events Center is the premiere meeting destination in the state. In addition to four levels of convention space, it also includes the 17,000+ capacity Wells Fargo Arena. With an attached 330-room Hilton Des Moines Downtown and a climate-controlled skywalk that connects to downtown hotels, restaurants, and parking, it's the epitome of convenience. Take advantage of their in-house and on-site marketing, media, AV, and exhibitor services, along with their expert culinary team.
ADDRESS PHONE (515) 564-8135
730 3rd Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 564-8001
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FAX
WEB
iowaeventscenter.com
SPACE SQ. FT. DIMENSIONS CEILING HEIGHT BANQUET ROUNDS THEATRE CLASSROOM 10' BY 10' BOOTHS LEVEL 1 Meeting Rooms 101 - 108 1,800 each 30' x 60' each 12' 110 180 90 92 total (*8' by 10') (combined 8 rooms) 2 Meeting Rooms (107 - 108) 3,600 60' x 60' 12' 230 360 180 3 Meeting Rooms (101 - 103 & 104 - 105) 5,400 90' x 60' 12' 340 540 270 LEVEL 2 Hall B 46,725 267' x 175' 35' 3,050 4,247 2,270 260 Hall C 49,395 267' x 185' 35' 3,200 4,490 2,318 281 Hall B & C 96,120 267' x 360' 35' 6,270 8,737 4,545 541 Hall A 50,806 266' x 191' 13' 236 (*8' x 10') Business Center 527 17' x 31' 10' 30 49 30 (3) Show Offices average: 264 average: 11' x 24' Hall B Green Room 70 7' x 10' LEVEL 3 Meeting Room 301 & 311 1,000 each 20' x 50' 16' 80 111 69 Meeting Rooms 302 - 309 & 312 - 319 1,350 each 27' x 50' 16' 110 155 96 Meeting Room 310 & 320 1,200 each 24' x 50' 16' 100 133 81 Meeting Room 321 950 38' x 25' 16' 80 111 69 Office 332 & 333 300 each Full Meeting Room Level 200 10' x 10' Booths Grand Concourse 46 + 10' x 10' Booths or 48 + 8' Tables Boardroom 1 485 26'4" x 20' 12' Permanent Conference for 12 Boardroom 2 & 3 1,315 each 38'3" x 37'3" 12' 100 133 81 Boardroom 4 760 35'8" x 25'2" 12' Permanent Conference for 16 LEVEL 4 Meeting Room 401 1,400 25' x 52' 12' 110 155 78 Meeting Room 402 1,000 25' x 40' 12' 80 111 69 Grand Ballroom 28,800 180' x 160' 30' - 40' 2,330 3,111 1,929 108 Grand Ballroom A 14,400 180' x 80' 30' - 40' 1,165 1,550 964 54 Grand Ballroom B 14,400 180' x 80' 30' - 40' 1,165 1,550 964 54 Green Room West 195 Green Room East 195 QUICK GLANCE Total 286,300 sq. ft. Meeting Space 226,000 sq. ft. Meeting Rooms 37 Exhibit Hall 150,000 sq. ft. Ballroom 28,800 sq. ft. Pre-Function 60,300 sq. ft.
LEVELS one Three Two Four
This 14,000-squarefoot meeting space can be divided into a maximum of eight individual meeting rooms, or combined to create three large meeting rooms.
This level consists of 150,000 square feet of continuous exhibition space broken up into three separate halls of approximately 50,000 square feet each.
Located on the same level as the indoor skywalk system, this level features 50,000 square feet of space broken out into 21 individual rooms or a combination of settings. State-of-the-art, operable air walls allow for flexibility to accommodate up to 200 10’ x 10’ exhibits.
The Grand Ballroom with an operable wall allows banquets up to 2,330 guests.
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COMMUNITY CHOICE BALLROOM A & B
HALL C COMMUNITY CHOICE MEETING ROOM
WELLS FARGO ARENA HY-VEE
LEVEL 2 LEVEL 1 LEVEL 3
LEVEL 4
Iowa state Fairgrounds
Even if you're not there to experience the most iconic State Fair in the country, you can still get a taste of what makes it so great. The Iowa State Fairgrounds offer incredible flexibilty and a unique setting for events. Located just minutes from Interstate 235 and downtown Des Moines, it is an ideal meeting location. There are 14 different venues to choose from ranging from 1,824 to 110,400 square feet. It's hosted rodeos, car shows, home and garden shows, pork expos, and everything in between!
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BUILDING/FACILITY SQ. FT. THEATER CLASSROOM BANQUET RECEPTION 4-H Exhibits Building 41,086 2,500 952 2,304 4,000 Agriculture Building 29,000 1,600 825 1,200 3,000 Animal Learning Center 17,280 1,800 950 1,400 2,000 Cattle Barn 153,276 700 Elwell Family Food Center 15,000 1,660 855 1,250 1,570 Grandstand Horse Barn 90,272 Jacobson Exhibition Center Indoor Warm Up Area 18,000 Jacobson Exhibition Conference Area 966 100 50 75 Jacobson Exhibition/VIP Area/Upper Level 2,200 175 90 130 Jacobson Exhibition Center 32,000 3,400 1,750 2,500 6,800 Livestock Pavilion 46,776 Outdoor Area 19,100 Sheep Barn 142,000 Stalling Barn 36,400 Swine Barn 184,096 Varied Industries Building 110,400 10,000 4,500 7,500 Varied Industries Building Conference Center Upper Level 8,000 800 400 600 150 Varied Industries Building Meeting Rooms Four (4) Rooms A-D 2,000 175 100 150 Walnut Center 7,000 775 400 575 750 Youth Inn 11,818 700 600 E 30th Street & E University Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50317 ADDRESS PHONE (515) 262-3111 FAX (515) 262-6906 WEB iowastatefairgrounds.org QUICK GLANCE Total 315.500 sq. ft. Largest room 110,400 sq. ft. Classroom capacity 4,500 Banquet capacity 7,500 Reception capacity 10,000
13 WORLD PERCHERON CONGRESS GOODGUYS HEARTLAND NATIONALS WORLD PORK EXPO NAIA WRESTLING Sky Glider West ........................................K4/I13 Sky Glider West sponsored by Sleep Number Stalling Barn..................................................L22 Stalling Barn sponsored by Van Wall Equipment Susan Knapp Amphitheater.........................E16 Susan Knapp Amphitheater sponsored by Prairie Meadows with media sponsor KDSM Fox 17 Swine Barn...................................................M17 Swine Barn sponsored by Corteva Agriscience Thrill Town.......................................................L5 Thrill Ville ......................................................E12 Thrill Zone.......................................................G2 Varied Industries Building ..............................I7 William C. Knapp Varied Industries Building sponsored by Principal Volunteer O ce and Credential Pick Up.......O2 Walnut Center...............................................K11 Wind Turbine & Education Center ...............F18 MidAmerican Energy Wind Turbine & Education Center Ye Old Mill .....................................................F13 Youth Inn..……........................….................K21 Oman Family Youth Inn IOWA STATE FAIRGROUNDS JACOBSON EXHIBITION CENTER VARIED INDUSTRIES BUILDING
MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex
Opened in fall 2021, the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex in West Des Moines is the latest in the growing number of state-of-the-art sports complexes in the region. Sports are the name of the game here, with a 90,000-squarefoot indoor turf soccer field, two indoor ice arenas, four basketball courts, eight volleyball courts, and three outdoor synthetic turf fields. Far from traditional, there are also spaces for trade shows, conventions, galas, and even concerts. All located within minutes from Jordan Creek Town Center and all of the entertainment districts in West Des Moines.
ADDRESS
6500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines, IA 50266
(515) 440-4820
(515) 222-3459
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PHONE
FAX
WEB therecplex.com
QUICK GLANCE Total Over 66 acres Meeting Space 6,400 sq. ft. Kum & Go Community Rooms 3,200 sq. ft. Overlook Room 2,200 sq. ft. Activities Room 1,000 sq. ft. BUILDING/FACILITY SQ. FT. DIMENSIONS BANQUET ROUNDS CLASSROOM THEATER Indoor Ice Arena, Rink #1 17,000 85' x 200' 500 650 1,000 Indoor Ice Arena, Rink #2 17,000 85' x 200' Hy-Vee Fieldhouse, Basketball (4) 30,000 125' x 249' 1,000 800 1,000 Hy-Vee Fieldhouse, Volleyball (8) 31,000 125' x 249' Hy-Vee Fieldhouse, Soccer (3) 88,000 355' x 249' Hy-Vee Fieldhouse, Pickleball Courts 3,500 73' x 48' Outdoor Soccer Fields (3) 270,000 355' x 240' Esports Center: 30 High-Powered PCs and Six Consoles 3,800 68' x 57' Kum & Go Community Rooms (3 combined rooms) 3,200 96' x 34' 140 116 163 Kum & Go Community Room (1 room) 1,066 32' x 32' 46 38 54 Activities Room 1,000 32' x 32' 64 38 54 Overlook Room 2,200 32' x 62' 98 2 131
15 Outdoor Field A "Scheels All Sports Field" Outdoor Field B "Prairie Meadows Field" Outdoor Field C Multipurpose Room "Kum & Go" Community Rooms A, B & C Esports Center WELLS FARGO COURT KUM & GO COMMUNITY ROOM GREG ABLE ARENA GREEN STATE TURF FIELD OUTDOOR 2nd Floor Overlook Multipurpose Room Batting Cages Pickleball Courts Building & Field Layout Fieldhouse LR #1 LR #5 LR #6 LR #3 LR #2 LR #4 LR #9 LR #8 LR #7 HSI Hospitality Suite Indoor Turf Oak Leafs Multipurpose Room "Kum & Go" Community Rooms A, B & C Esports Center Hardwood Courts Multipurpose Court Patty & Jim Cownie Family Ice Arena Rink #2 Greg Abel Ice Arena Rink #1 INDOOR
VENUES 16 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE VENUE SQ. FT LARGEST ROOM (SQ. FT.) NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS CLASSROOM CAPACITY BANQUET CAPACITY THEATER CAPACITY RECEPTION CAPACITY CEILING HEIGHT 10X10 BOOTHS OUTSIDE CATERING WIRELESS INTERNET Iowa State Fairgrounds 315,000 110,400 14 4,500 7,500 10,000 10,000 400 Yes Yes Iowa Events Center 286,300 150,000 37 4,545 6,270 17,100 803 No Yes Hy-Vee Hall at Iowa Events Center 179,626 96,120 8 4,545 6,270 8,737 35' 541 No Yes MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex 150,000 No No Iowa State FairgroundsWilliam C. Knapp Varied Industries Building 110,400 110,400 7 4,500 7,500 10,000 29' 400 No Yes Community Choice Convention Center 90,825 28,800 30 1,929 2,330 3,111 40' 200 No Yes Cowles Commons 80,450 80,150 1 No No State Historical Museum of Iowa 50,000 24,000 10 60 350 500 500 No Yes Palms Theatres & IMAX, The 45,000 1,400 18 300 136 15' No Yes Wells Fargo Arena at Iowa Events Center 35,100 35,100 1 2,000 1,850 16,980 3,000 127' 160 No Yes Holiday Inn Airport & Conference Center 34,000 12,020 23 840 1,000 1,500 1,000 20' 77 No Yes Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack & Hotel 33,332 35,000 26 486 960 1,440 1,500 25' 66 No Yes Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden 29,161 3,460 4 100 220 220 220 20 Yes Yes Des Moines Marriott Downtown 28,311 14,000 16 850 1,230 2,000 2,200 14' 40 No Yes FFA Enrichment Center 23,317 8,000 16 32 480 700 750 27 Yes Yes SheratonWest Des Moines 22,321 12,000 12 850 750 1,440 1,200 16' 60 No Yes Scottish Rite Consistory 21,499 8,232 5 50 500 1,000 500 Yes Yes Living History Farms 21,017 3,192 7 330 160 330 160 No Yes Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown 20,000 10,650 15 580 700 1,000 1,200 No Yes Hilton Des Moines Downtown 19,338 9,940 9 576 924 1,080 1,000 18' No Yes River Center, The 18,000 6,000 6 400 400 34' No Yes Holiday Inn & Suites Des Moines Northwest 15,673 4,500 18 325 375 550 485 No Yes Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel 15,331 3,649 7 225 250 350 300 13' 25 No Yes Toast 15,000 7,800 4 232 425 425 425 10' 30 Yes Yes Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton 13,362 4,200 10 255 270 520 800 15' 20 No Yes Ramada Tropics Resort & Conference Center 13,340 5,200 7 200 350 400 350 No Yes World Food Prize Hall of Laureates, The 12,058 3,430 6 98 196 280 350 18' No Yes Adventureland Park 12,000 12,000 1 700 70 No No Rewind Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton 11,490 4,420 6 220 300 320 450 14' Yes Yes Reiman Gardens 11,417 3,400 6 184 256 260 500 12 Yes Yes Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center 10,240 4,575 7 230 300 400 375 14' Yes Yes Hilton Garden InnWest Des Moines 10,000 5,600 5 400 400 400 400 14' 20 No Yes Science Center of Iowa 10,000 4,100 7 175 225 300 400 25 No Yes Great Caterers of Iowa Inc. 10,000 10,000 1 500 550 50 Yes No Rollins Mansion 10,000 3,000 8 250 600 Yes Yes Holiday Inn Downtown at Mercy Campus 9,284 4,290 7 120 250 350 250 11' No Yes Ricochet 9,000 9,000 2 60 Yes No Hoyt Sherman Place 8,699 2,860 5 140 150 1,252 225 Yes Yes West Des Moines Marriott 8,634 4,602 9 300 320 450 400 12' 20 No Yes Des Moines Public Library 8,446 1,425 8 45 100 300 275 Yes Yes Country Lane Lodge LLC 8,000 6,000 3 300 400 400 400 24' Yes Yes Glen Oaks Country Club 7,968 2,758 5 70 120 140 250 No Yes Jester Park Lodge 7,500 3,800 2 258 258 258 258 19 No Yes Des Moines Community Playhouse 7,184 3,264 5 60 160 200 200 12 Yes Yes Salisbury House & Gardens 6,907 931 6 100 400 300 250 20' 25 Yes Yes Americana Restaurant & Lounge 6,900 6,000 5 60 432 800 13' 40 No Yes
VENUES 17 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE VENUE SQ. FT LARGEST ROOM (SQ. FT.) NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS CLASSROOM CAPACITY BANQUET CAPACITY THEATER CAPACITY RECEPTION CAPACITY CEILING HEIGHT 10X10 BOOTHS OUTSIDE CATERING WIRELESS INTERNET Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc. 6,700 2,500 3 110 300 500 600 No Yes Sherwood Forest Event Center 6,600 6,000 2 300 260 300 260 17' Yes Yes Courtyard by MarriottAnkeny 6,206 5,280 7 300 200 400 200 11' 20 No Yes Hilton Garden InnDes Moines/Urbandale 6,030 4,320 10 275 350 500 350 10 No Yes Summerset Winery 5,692 3,776 2 260 250 250 250 9' Yes Yes Iowa Taproom Events 5,340 4,450 2 280 450 300 20' 35 No No Blank Park Zoo 5,268 10,000 4 350 175 185 195 No No Baymont Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport Hotel 5,187 3,731 6 117 250 400 12' No Yes Adventureland Inn 5,000 4,100 16 250 250 300 No Yes Ramada Ankeny 4,850 2,250 4 96 150 150 150 10 No Yes Big Room at Mainframe Studios, The 4,650 4,650 1 150 350 Yes Yes Tournament Club of Iowa 4,509 3,609 2 200 84 145 80 Yes Yes Surety Hotel 4,075 2,965 3 150 140 200 Yes Yes West End Architectural Salvage 4,000 1,500 4 200 200 214 16 Yes Yes Des Moines International Airport 3,929 2,126 5 84 240 Yes Yes Drury Inn & SuitesWest Des Moines 3,210 2,290 7 120 100 200 100 Yes No Windsor Heights Community & Event Center 3,140 3,140 1 160 150 200 200 12' Yes Yes Iowa Arboretum 3,094 3,094 3 240 100 200 15 Yes Yes Crown Point Community Center 2,600 1,600 2 200 Yes Yes Jasper Winery 2,084 1,625 3 75 2,000 Yes No Clive Special Events Building 1,960 1,960 1 48 40 40 No Yes Simpson Barn, The 1,800 1,800 1 2,744 11 No Yes Jamie Hurd Amphitheater 1,550 2,000 1 70 125 No Yes DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Des Moines Airport 1,441 625 3 36 45 75 No Yes Des Moines Civic Center 1,375 1,375 6 80 100 100 No Yes Gilroy's 1,300 700 2 45 40 90 50 9' 6 Yes Yes Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company 1,217 517 3 72 90 90 12' 6 Yes Yes Noah's Ark Restaurant, Lounge & Bakery 1,200 1,200 2 40 60 60 60 12' 6 No Yes Best Western PremierAnkeny 1,200 1,200 1 60 50 75 10' No Yes Your Private Bar 1,200 1,156 1 72 Yes Yes AC Hotel by Marriott Des Moines East Village 1,136 836 3 36 1,500 500 Yes No Beerhouse, The 720 720 1 50 120 No No TownePlace Suites West Des Moines - Jordan Creek 280 280 1 12 No No Simon Estes Riverfront Amphitheater 126 1,500 1 No No Raccoon River Nature Lodge 120 120 1 No No Markey's 350 204 350 11' No Yes Christiani's VIP Catering & Events 200 200 Yes Yes Local Bites No No Grand View University 250 25 18 No No Indianola Activity Center 1 No No Hall, The 65 150 No No Justice League of Food No No Tupelo Honey No No New Northwestern, The 2 No No Whatcha Smokin' BBQ + Brew 250 No No 30hop Destination Grille LLC Shop DSM, The
Find an arena, fields, or courts in the click of a button. Our sports facility search tool helps you find Des Moines soccer fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and softball and baseball fields, as well as track and field complexes. With a wide-range of multi-use sports facilities, it’s easy to find the facility for your next sporting event in Greater Des Moines.
catchdesmoines.com/sports
YOU NAME IT. HAVE IT. basketball Golf
Baseball Hockey
Track
VENUES 18 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE
We
gymnastics
Rodeo
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Soccer wrestling skateboarding
swimming
Our
HOTELS
PLAY GOLDILOCKS AND FIND THE BED THAT’S JUST RIGHT
for your attendees with more than 13,000 sleeping rooms available in Greater Des Moines. Whether you’re looking for a boutique hotel or want to maximize points with trusted national brands, your attendees are always just steps away from great food, shopping, and entertainment. There are plenty of ways to check-in and plenty of things to check out in Greater Des Moines, and we're happy to play concierge.
catchdesmoines.com/hotels
HOTEL FORT DES MOINES
The Hotel Fort Des Moines, a local treasure that has hosted a dozen sitting presidents and countless celebrities, celebrated its 2019 centennial with a complete renovation. This modern twist on historic grandeur lies in the heart of downtown, close to cultural attractions, dining, shops, and entertainment. A timeless icon featuring 290 guest rooms and more than 13,000 square feet of meeting space awaits you.
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HOTELS
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WEST DES MOINES MARRIOTT
SHERATON WEST DES MOINES
HOTEL PATTEE
RENAISSANCE DES MOINES SAVERY HOTEL
SURETY HOTEL
Surety Hotel is a modern, grand hotel ushering in an exciting new era in downtown Des Moines. Travelers and locals alike will enjoy the modern communal design and good old fashioned Midwestern hospitality commingling at Surety. Surety offers simply sumptuous guestrooms, a contemporary tavern, and several stunning gathering spaces, all created to set a new standard in Des Moines and beyond.
Did you Know?
Greater Des Moines has 13.7 million annual visitors.
FUN FACT
13,OOO+ Hotel Rooms
HOTELS 21 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE
HOTELS 22 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE HOTEL NAME TOTAL ROOMS RESTAURANT NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS BANQUET CAPACITY LARGEST ROOM (SQ. FT.) CEILING HEIGHT DOWNTOWN AC Hotel by Marriott Des Moines East Village 109 Yes 3 60 836 12’ Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center 155 No 1 16 300 9' Des Lux Hotel 51 No 1 300 12’ Des Moines Marriott Downtown 413 Yes 16 1,230 14,000 14’ Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown 234 Yes 15 700 10,650 Fairfield Inn & SuitesDes Moines Downtown 91 No Hampton Inn & Suites - Downtown 131 No 2 107 Hilton Des Moines Downtown 330 Yes 9 924 9,940 18’ Holiday Inn Downtown at Mercy Campus 251 Yes 7 250 4,290 11’ Holiday Inn Express & SuitesDes Moines Downtown 102 No 3 180 1,050 Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton 287 Yes 10 270 4,200 15’ Hyatt Place Des Moines Downtown 93 No 4 40 675 12’ Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel 209 Yes 7 250 3,649 13’ Residence Inn Des Moines - Downtown 127 No 1 400 Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown 111 No 1 618 10’ Surety Hotel 137 Yes 3 150 2,965 EAST / NORTHEAST Adventureland Inn 175 Yes 16 280 4,100 20’ Best Western Plus Altoona Inn 85 No Comfort Inn - Altoona 69 No EconoLodge Inn & Suites Fairgrounds 69 No Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona 107 No Hampton Inn & Suites Altoona 90 No 1 60 720 12’ Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - Altoona 80 No 2 50 432 Hyatt Place Hotel - Altoona 112 Yes 2 50 972 9’ La Quinta Inn & Suites AltoonaDes Moines 80 No 1 500 Motel 6 - Altoona 115 No Motel 8 18 No MyPlace - Altoona 64 No Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack & Hotel 168 Yes 26 960 35,000 25’ Quality Inn & Suites - Altoona 47 No Redwood Motel 15 No Sleep Inn & Suites - Pleasant Hill 77 No 2 50 800 Super 8 - Altoona 67 No 1 40 800 WoodSpring Suites - Pleasant Hill 105 No NORTH AmericInn Lodge & Suites - Ankeny 57 No Baymont Inn & Suites 75 No 2 80 2,200 Best Western Premier - Ankeny 84 No 1 40 1,200 9’ Budget Inn & Suites 97 Yes 2 75 600 Comfort Inn & Suites - Ankeny 67 No 1 40 800 Country Inn - Ankeny 63 No 1 20 528 Courtyard by Marriott - Ankeny 119 Yes 7 432 5,280 13’ Days Inn - Ankeny 50 No EconoLodge - Ankeny 56 No Hampton Inn & Suites - Ankeny 77 No 1 40 897 Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - Ankeny 94 No Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines/Ankeny 92 No 1 32 644 9’ La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham - Ankeny 75 No Motel 6 - Des Moines North 115 No
HOTELS 23 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE HOTEL NAME TOTAL ROOMS RESTAURANT NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS BANQUET CAPACITY LARGEST ROOM (SQ. FT.) CEILING HEIGHT NORTH MyPlace - Ankeny 46 No Palace Inn 12 No Quality Inn 48 No Quality Inn & Suites - Ankeny 57 No 1 25 500 Qube Hotel 44 No Ramada Ankeny 115 Yes 4 175 2,250 Red Roof Inn 57 No Residence Inn by Marriott Ankeny 90 No 1 24 528 10' Sleep Inn & Suites - Ankeny 67 No Super 8 64 No Super 8 - Ankeny 45 No WoodSpring Suites - Ankeny 105 No
American Inn & Suites 50 No AmericInn Hotel & Suites - Johnston 89 No 2 40 500 AmericInn Lodge & Suites 53 No 1 56 644 EconoLodge - Urbandale 58 No EconoLodge Inn & SuitesMerle Hay 141 No Extended Stay AmericaUrbandale 104 No Fairfield Inn & Suites - Urbandale 80 No 1 100 3,000 Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines/Urbandale 95 No 1 2,000 Hilton Garden Inn - Des Moines/Urbandale 148 Yes 10 300 4,320 Holiday Inn & Suites Des Moines Northwest 198 Yes 18 375 4,500 Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - Urbandale 93 No 1 40 900 Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines Drake University 124 No 2 702 12’ Hotel Renovo 102 No 3 70 871 32’ Microtel Inn & Suites Urbandale 76 No 2 30 611 Motel Relax 61 No Quality Inn & Suites - Merle Hay 116 No 1 56 675 Ramada Tropics Resort & Conference Center 166 Yes 7 350 5,200 Revel Hotel 110 Yes 1 40 700 7’ Royal Motel 11 No Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center 164 No 7 300 4,575 14’ Super 8 - Urbandale 58 No TownePlace Suites by Marriott Des Moines/ Urbandale 116 No 2 40 696 8’ Wildwood Lodge 103 No 2 80 1,020 7’ Windsor Court 41 No SOUTH A-1 Motel 21 No AmericInn Hotel & Suites Des Moines Airport 63 No Baymont Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport Hotel 56 No 6 250 3,731 9’ Country Inn & Suites - Indianola 71 No 1 781 Cozy Rest Motel 83 No Days Inn & Suites - Airport 128 No 1 20 500 DoubleTree by Hilton HotelDes Moines Airport 100 Yes 3 48 625 Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport 82 No
NORTHWEST
HOTELS 24 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE HOTEL NAME TOTAL ROOMS RESTAURANT NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS BANQUET CAPACITY LARGEST ROOM (SQ. FT.) CEILING HEIGHT SOUTH Hampton Inn - Airport 120 No Hawkeye Motel 32 No Holiday Inn Airport & Conference Center 214 Yes 23 1,000 12,020 20’ Homewood SuitesDes Moines Airport 105 No Hotel Pommier 56 No Quality Inn & Suites - Indianola 44 No Quality Inn & Suites at Des Moines Airport 55 No Ramada Des Moines Airport Hotel and Convention Center 142 Yes 10 380 4,402 WEST Best Western PLUSDes Moines West 62 No 1 20 1,100 Comfort Inn and Suites West Des Moines 87 No 1 Country Inn & SuitesDes Moines West 104 No 1 80 1,000 Courtyard by MarriottWest Des Moines at Jordan Creek 102 Yes 1 30 636 Courtyard by MarriottWest/Clive 108 Yes 2 50 980 Days Inn Des Moines West/Clive 131 No Days Inn West Des Moines 69 No 2 50 900 Drury Inn & SuitesWest Des Moines 180 No 7 140 2,290 Element West Des Moines 110 No 3 60 732 Extended Stay AmericaWest Des Moines 86 No Fairfield Inn & Suites by MarriottWest Des Moines 102 No 2 32 576 10’ Hampton Inn & SuitesMills Civic Parkway 102 No 1 40 576 Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive 135 No 1 50 625 8’ Hilton Garden InnWest Des Moines 176 Yes 5 400 5,600 14’ Holiday Inn Express & SuitesJordan West 99 No 1 324 Homewood Suites West 100 No 1 30 696 10' Hyatt Place West Des Moines at Jordan Creek 123 Yes 3 125 1,957 9’ La Quinta Inn 102 No 1 20 416 Motel 6 - Des Moines West 121 No Residence Inn by Marriott 122 No 1 350 Rewind Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton 137 Yes 6 300 4,420 13.6’ Sheraton - West Des Moines 285 Yes 12 750 12,000 16’ Simply Suites by Sonesta 98 No Sleep Inn & SuitesWest Des Moines 65 No 1 650 SpringHill Suites by MarriottWest Des Moines 97 No 1 50 1,166 9’ Staybridge Suites West Des Moines 90 No 1 55 1,000 Super 8 - West Des Moines/Clive 79 No 1 25 546 TownePlace Suites West Des Moines - Jordan Creek 99 No 1 280 West Des Moines Marriott 220 Yes 9 320 4,602 12’ WoodSpring Suites –West Des Moines 112 No —
DES MOINES MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN
Set in the heart of vibrant downtown, the Des Moines Marriott Downtown offers amazing amenities and superior service. Experience Meetings Imagined, a digital innovation which creates a meeting designed and delivered to inspire. Whether a business or social event, this hotel boasts 28,000 square feet of event space and the largest events space in Des Moines. Fuel up or socialize in two on-site restaurants: Rock River Grill and Mash + Marrow. They look forward to making your stay in downtown Des Moines comfortable, rewarding, and satisfying.
HILTON DES MOINES DOWNTOWN
Hilton Des Moines Downtown is directly connected to the Iowa Events Center. Only five miles to the airport and convenient access just off Interstate 235, the hotel is surrounded by local dining, major businesses, and close to nearby downtown attractions like the Iowa State Capitol and the renowned Downtown Farmers’ Market. The modern guestrooms are spacious and comfortable and include refrigerators, laptop safes, and USB charging ports. Park Street Kitchen and Bar, indoor pool, fitness center, and technology lounge are just a few of the amenities to ensure a memorable experience.
HOTELS 25 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE
ROOM NAME SQ. FT. DIMENSION CEILING RECEPTION BANQUET THEATER CLASSROOM U-SHAPE Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Davenport or Dubuque (each) 1,118 26' x 43' 10' 150 80 150 60 35 Davenport or Dubuque 1,118 26' x 43' 10' 150 80 100 60 35 Des Moines Exhibit Hall 9,750 75' x 130' 14' 1,200 800 1,200 675 Des Moines Exhibit Hall & Hall of Cities Ballroom (combined) 14,500 14' 2,200 1,230 1,600 850 Hall of Cities Ballroom 4,472 43' x 104' 12' 650 360 500 325 Iowa Ballroom 9,360 78' x 120' 14' 1,200 800 1,200 675 Salons A, B, C, F, G, or H (each) 780 26' x 30' 14' 80 40 80 42 25 Salons ABC, FGH, D, or E (each) 2,340 30' x 78' 14' 380 200 260 120 Sioux City or Waterloo (each) 754 26' x 29' 10' 80 50 80 35 25 Windows on 7th 3,171 200 120 140 56 18 ROOM NAME SQ. FT. DIMENSION CEILING RECEPTION BANQUET THEATER CLASSROOM U-SHAPE Ballroom Prefunction 4,240 700 Binary Boardroom 714 17' x 42' 10' Cloud Ballroom 9,940 71' x 140' 18' 1,000 924 1,080 576 Cloud Ballroom A 3,266 71' x 46' 18' 330 288 340 189 81 Cloud Ballroom A w/ Prefunction 7,506 780 Cloud Ballroom AB 6,603 71' x 93' 18' 680 576 765 441 Cloud Ballroom B 3,337 71' x 47' 18' 330 288 340 189 81 Cloud Ballroom B w/ Prefunction 7,577 780 Cloud Ballroom BC 6,745 71' x 95' 18' 680 576 765 441 Cloud Ballroom C 3,337 71' x 47' 18' 330 288 340 189 81 Cloud Ballroom C w/ Prefunction 7,577 780 Element 1,176 42' x 28' 10' 100 60 80 54 30 Linear 1,176 42' x 28' 10' 100 60 80 54 30 Lobby Boardroom 400 25' x 16' 10' Matrix 1,692 47' x 36' 10' 150 96 100 48 39
HILTON DES MOINES DOWNTOWN
DES MOINES MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN
GETTING
AROUND
Navigating Greater Des Moines is a breeze. Upon arrival, your attendees will appreciate the short, 10 minute drive from the airport to downtown, quick and easy commute to and from the suburbs. Attendees also enjoy the walk-ability of downtown Des Moines and 4-mile climatecontrolled skywalk. Rideshare services, including hotel shuttles, are readily available, as well as bike rentals and 800+ miles of connected recreational trails.
AROUND TOWN 26
Did you Know?
Des Moines was originally named Fort Raccoon.
Our
DOWNTOWN
DOWNTOWN DES MOINES IS EMERGING, progressive, and probably not at all what you think. It is clean, safe, fun, and welcoming. It’s culture without the cost. Art without the attitude. Walkable without the worry.
Whether your experience involves sampling the greatest hits –tenderloins, the State Capitol building, John & Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park – or discovering the deep tracks – Crab Rangoon Pizza, West End Salvage, a 6-mile art route – downtown Des Moines will surprise and delight at every turn (and with every bite).
AROUND TOWN 27 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE
FUN FACT
Average Summer Temperature: 840
MUST-SEE Attractions
VISITORS RAVE ABOUT OUR ICONIC festivals and events, farm-to-fork cuisine, 800 miles of hiking and biking trails, great shopping, and much more. As a major art destination in the Midwest, Greater Des Moines is living proof that sometimes the best art doesn’t come in a frame. From museums and galleries to Broadway shows and concerts, there’s so much to do in Greater Des Moines.
catchdesmoines.com/things-to-do
AROUND TOWN
ADVENTURELAND PARK
An amusement park, water park, and resort hotel all-inone. Features 10 new rides and attractions this year. Thrill rides and chill vibes abound.
HIGH TRESTLE TRAIL
25 miles of exploration, anchored by the iconic and illuminated 13-story High Trestle Bridge, one of the largest trail bridges in the world.
Lauridsen Skatepark
Nestled along the Des Moines Riverwalk is the newly opened Lauridsen Skatepark, which at 88,000 square feet, is the largest in the country. Features both park and street courses. Even if you don't skate, it's fun to take in all the rad sights, including a skatable WOW sculpture.
LIVING HISTORY FARMS
We're not all farms, but the ones we do have are pretty epic. Four different farms tell the story of Iowa's 300-year-old history, featuring everything from a blacksmith shop to oldtimey baseball games.
Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack and Hotel
More than 85,000 square feet of casino action and table games action make this Altoona hotspot the Vegas of Greater Des Moines. Seventeen hundred slot machines, horse racing May — September, and a world-class steakhouse to spend all your winnings at.
Principal Park
Catch a rising star, or a hot dog, at the AAA affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, located at beautiful Principal Park along the river. Go Iowa Cubs Go!
SMASH PARK
A one-of-a-kind social entertainment and events venue with American street style eats and hand-crafted cocktails. Featuring Iowa’s largest patio and 70+ HD TVs, plus don’t forget games: Smash Park is equipped with six pickleball courts, a full arcade, shuffleboard, bocce ball, ping pong, cornhole, and more!
Tournament Club of Iowa
Designed by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer, with elevation changes and beautiful vistas, it's one of hte most picturesque courses in the state.
| EDUCATIONAL | BLANK PARK ZOO
This 49-acre zoo on the south side of the city includes exhibits such as tigers, seals, lions, giraffes, lemurs, red pandas, and rhinos. The fun is almost unbearable.
GREATER DES MOINES BOTANICAL GARDEN
Rain or shine, things are always in bloom at this beautiful, seven-acre public garden in the heart of downtown.
IOWA STATE CAPITOL
The only five-domed capitol in the country includes 100 rooms of amazing history, including the magnificent law library, the most photographed room in the state. Free selfguided tours available.
JOHN AND MARY PAPPAJOHN SCULPTURE PARK
4.4 acres of awe-inspiring art and countless selfie opportunities abound in the crown jewel of downtown. More than 30 works of art make this the perfect place to unwind and get in touch with your artsy side.
SCIENCE CENTER OF IOWA
Centrally located in downtown Des Moines, SCI features interactive exhibits and unique programming to encourage learning and fun for all ages.
| SHOPPING | DOWNTOWN FARMERS’ MARKET
Every Saturday morning from May to October, more than 25,000 people gather on Court Avenue to enjoy food, music, murals, and more than 300 vendors. It's a Des Moines bucket list item.
Jordan Creek Town Center
Located right off Interstate 80 in West Des Moines, this entertainment district features a two-level enclosed mall with 100+ retailers, a movie theater, and restaurants. The surrounding area includes even more entertainment options, ranging from luxury bowling lanes to escape rooms and adult arcades.
Outlets of Des Moines
Outlets of Des Moines is an open-air shopping destination in Altoona where you can shop the biggest names in fashion including Michael Kors, kate spade new york, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Under Armour Factory House.
29
ADVENTURE
|
|
IOWA STATE CAPITOL
SMASH PARK
PRINCIPAL PARK
DOWNTOWN FARMERS' MARKET
FONG'S PIZZA
Irreverent yet delicious is the best way to describe Fong's Pizza, a tiki bar with Asianinspired pizza whose famous Crab Rangoon pizza earned coveted praise by Alton Brown on Food Network's "Best Thing I Ever Ate."
FLAVOR GREATER DES MOINES of
1,000+
locally owned restaurants local breweries, wineries, & Taprooms
20+ 12
James Beard Nominated Chefs
30
TOWN
AROUND
TREAT YOUR ATTENDEES TO GREATER DES MOINES’ celebrated farm-to-fork food scene (we practically invented it). Taste the work of James Beard-nominated chefs with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Try the dishes, drinks, and desserts that Greater Des Moines is known for: From classic Italian eateries and championship BBQ to unique flavors like Asian-inspired pizza, the legendary breaded pork tenderloin, or the life-changing Steak de Burgo. Renowned for international food and cultural festivals, Greater Des Moines offers surprising delights for every palate.
catchdesmoines.com/restaurants
AROUND TOWN CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE
SMITTY'S GILROY'S
MULBERRY STREET TAVERN
OISHII RAMEN
GOOD NEWS, DARLING
FOUNDRY DISTILLING CO.
AROUND TOWN
Public
ART
CATCH BEAUTY ON EVERY STREET CORNER, including a 4.4-acre sculpture park in downtown Des Moines, complete with 31 works of art. Take in a tour experience by BCycle or by foot. Glimpse downtown murals, architecture, outdoor art installations, sculptures, and monuments. Des Moines is a city rich with public art that is free for all to enjoy.
catchdesmoines.com/things-to-do
Did you Know?
There are 31 pieces of public art at the downtown sculpture park!
JOHN AND MARY PAPPAJOHN SCULPTURE PARK
Pack a picnic and spend a sunny afternoon at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Here you'll be inspired by dozens of works from internationally recognized arts right in the heart of downtown Des Moines. The 4.4-acre park offers plenty of room to spread out and enjoy throwing a frisbee for fido.
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HISTORIC
Hoods
THE
BEST
WAY TO LIVE LIKE
A LOCAL and have an authentic Des Moines experience is to explore our unique neighborhoods, brimming with both hidden gems and unmissable landmarks. Forge your own path, or use one of our Catch List itineraries to help map out your adventure. Here are just a few of our most dynamic districts, where there's fun right around the corner.
catchdesmoines.com/catchlist
Historic East Village
Located between the Iowa State Capitol and the Des Moines River, the Historic East Village is a vibrant, diverse neighborhood with more than 90 locally owned shops, restaurants, and bars. From spices to stilettos, the shopping scene is sure to impress. Make sure to stop at Peace Tree Brewing for some craft beer favorites or The Iowa Taproom for a sampling of state-wide classics. If you’re looking for a taste of sophistication, then sit down for a meal at either HoQ or Alba. If a casual environment is what you’re in search of, then grab a bite at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab, Truman’s KC Pizza Tavern, or fill up on queso and margaritas at Rita’s Cantina.
Western Gateway Park
Relax and explore one of the urban developments in downtown Des Moines. Western Gateway Park incorporates a mix of green space and buildings providing a cultural experience to both residents and visitors. The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Des Moines Central Library, The Temple for Performing Arts, and The John and Mary Pappajohn Education Center are all beautiful and unique meeting spaces. Grab a bite at hot spots like Americana or Django or a drink at Exile Brewing Company, one of the most popular breweries in the state.
Historic Court District
Located in the heart of Des Moines, the Historic Court District is considered to be the main entertainment district of downtown. It is home to restaurants, bars, breweries, an abundance of unique murals, and one of Des Moines’ favorite events: the Downtown Farmers’ Market. From May to October, 25,000 people pack Court Avenue and its surrounding side streets to experience one of the top farmers’ markets in the country. Period street lamps, planters, and park benches dot the sidewalks, and it is also home to the Des Moines Civic Center, which has hosted Broadway productions such as “Hamilton” and “Dear Evan Hansen.”
Historic Valley Junction
Stroll through the eclectic Historic Valley Junction in West Des Moines, a renovated railroad district with charm to spare. From kitchy to classy, you'll find vintage shops, clothing boutiques, and art galleries all situated within a lively district full of murals and quaint eateries and cafes. Make sure to check out their Thursday evening Farmer's Market and The Hall, a spacious German-style beer hall perfect for large gatherings.
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WESTERN GATEWAY PARK
HISTORIC COURT DISTRCT
HISTORIC VALLEY JUNCTION
HISTORIC EAST VILLAGE
NONSTOP FLIGHTS FROM DES MOINES
Atlanta
Austin
Charlotte
Chicago (ORD)
Dallas
Denver
Destin
Detroit
Ft. Lauderdale
Houston (HOU)
Houston (IAH)
Las Vegas
Los Angeles
Miami
Minneapolis
Nashville
New York City (LGA)
Newark
Orange County
Orlando (MCO)
Orlando (SFB)
Palm Springs
Phoenix (AZA)
Phoenix (PHX)
Portland
Punta Gorda
San Diego
Sarasota
St. Louis
St. Petersburg
Washington, D.C.
LOCATED IN THE HEART OF THE COUNTRY, Greater Des Moines is easily accessible for event attendees by land or air. For those who prefer a road trip, this capital city is nestled at the intersection of Interstates 80 and 35. For the frequent fliers, Des Moines International Airport offers 160 flights a day, with more than 30 direct flights to major U.S. cities.
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| BY AIR |
flydsm.com *Some nonstop routes may be offered seasonally and flights are subject to change. Allegiant Air American Airlines Delta Airlines Frontier Airlines Southwest Airlines United Airlines AROUND TOWN PORTLAND LOS ANGELES ORANGE COUNTY PALM SPRINGS SAN DIEGO PHOENIX 80 DENVER
LOCATED DAILY FLIGHTS
Centrally
700-MILE RADIUS FROM DES MOINES Did
35 Atlanta, GA 904 miles 14 hours Boston, MA 1,300 miles 21 hours Chicago, IL 333 miles 5.5 hours Cincinnati, OH 590 miles 9.5 hours Dallas, TX 698 miles 11 hours Denver, CO 672 miles 9.5 hours Detroit, MI 599 miles 9.5 hours Houston, TX 954 miles 14 hours Kansas City, MO 194 miles 3 hours Kearney, NE 316 miles 5 hours Madison, WI 355 miles 5.5 hours Milwaukee, WI 374 miles 6 hours Minneapolis, MN 244 miles 4 hours Nashville, TN 655 miles 10 hours New York City, NY 1,107 miles 18 hours Oklahoma City, OK 546 miles 8.5 hours Omaha, NE 135 miles 2 hours Philadelphia, PA 1,078 miles 17 hours Phoenix, AZ 1,407 miles 22 hours Rapid City, SD 626 miles 10 hours
and Drive
to Des Moines |
FUN FACT 13.7 Million Annual Visitors CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE AROUND TOWN 35 ST. LOUIS AUSTIN HOUSTON CHICAGO DETROIT NASHVILLE ORLANDO ST. PETERSBURG SARASOTA PUNTA GORDA MIAMI FORT LAUDERDALE CHARLOTTE NEW YORK WASHINGTON, D.C. ATLANTA
Mileage
time
BY LAND |
than 8,600 seats are available each day at the Des Moines International Airport! 80 DALLAS 35 35 DES MOINES MINNEAPOLIS NEWARK
you Know? More
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
AROUND TOWN 36 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE Park St Center St Center St t S h t 9 KeosauquaWay 9th S t 11th S t 12th S t 13th S t t S h t 4 1 t S h t 8 8th S t 8th S t t S h t 9 t S h t 7 7th S t E V A h t 6 6th Ave e v A h t 5 5th Ave 3rd S t 4th S t e v A d n 2 Locust St Grand Ave Pleasant St Chestnut St Grand Ave Locust ST MulberrySt Watson Powell Jr Way Walnut St Locust St Grand Ave IngersollAve e v A h t 5 E V A h t 6 t S h t 7 t S h t 0 1 KeosauquaWay t S h t 2 1 dn2 evA Watson Powe l Jr Way 15th S t COMMUNITY CHOICE CONVENTION CENTER WELLS FARGO ARENA HY-VEE HALL IOWA EVENTS CENTER CATCH DES MOINES INFORMATION CENTER MERCYONE DES MOINES MEDICAL CENTER COWLES COMMONS WELLMARK YMCA (OPEN DURING EVENTS) DES MOINES PUBLIC LIBRARY DART CENTRAL BUS STATION (PUBLIC TRANSIT) JOHN & MARY PAPPAJOHN SCULPTURE PARK HOYT SHERMAN PLACE DES MOINES TEMPLE THEATER DES LUX HOTEL COMFORT INN & SUITES EVENT CENTER HOLIDAY INN DOWNTOWN AT MERCY CAMPUS HYATT PLACE DES MOINES DOWNTOWN DES MOINES MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN RENAISSANCE SAVERY DES MOINES DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES DES MOINES DOWNTOWN S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S B B B B B B MAINFRAME STUDIOS SCIENCE CENTER OF IOWA S S S S S S S S S WESTERN GATEWAY PARK HISTORIC COUR DES MOINES CIVIC CENTER HOTEL FORT DES MOINES, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON SURETY HOTEL HILTON DES MOINES DOWNTOWN FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES DES MOINES W Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy CherrySt High St 10th S t UNITY POINT IOWA METHODIST MEDICAL CENTER Crocker St tSdr3 Crocker St t S d r 3 t S H T 4 Woodland Ave 12th S t S S S S S S
Dotdash Meredith Principal Financial Wells Fargo & Company Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Nationwide John Deere Companies Hy-Vee Inc. Kum & Go EMC Insurance Group TPI Iowa Athene Corteva Agriscience
AROUND TOWN
AROUND TOWN 37 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE RIVERWALK PARK 2nd Ave Water S t E 1st S t Robert D R a y D r E 2nd S t E 2nd S t E 3rd S t E 4th S t E 5th S t E 6th S t Finkbine D r E 7th S t Court Ave E Court Ave E Vine St E Market St Walnut St E Walnut St E Locust St Des Moines St Lyon St Des Moines River t S h t 7 E E th6 tS E 12th S t dn2 IOWA WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT BRIDGE ROBERT D. RAY ASIAN GARDENS PRINCIPAL RIVERW ALK GREATER DES MOINES BOTANICAL GARDEN SIMON ESTES RIVERFRONT AMPHITHEATER OWA STATE CAPITOL PRINCIPAL PARK RIVERPRINCIPAL WALK BRENTON SKATING PLAZA EMBASSY SUITES DES MOINES DOWNTOWN AC HOTEL BY MARRIOTT DES MOINES EAST VILLAGE RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTTDES MOINES DOWNTOWN HAMPTON INN & SUITESDOWNTOWN S S B B B LAURIDSEN SKATEPARK STAYBRIDGE SUITES DES MOINES DOWNTOWN HISTORIC EAST VILLAGE RT DISTRICT MOINES CENTER WORLD FOOD PRIZE HALL OF LAUREATES STATE HISTORICAL MUSEUM OF IOWA E Grand Ave B FUN FACT 10 MIN from Des Moines International Airport to downtown. Travel time to the suburbs? Locals will tell you, “everything is 20 minutes.”
of
HISTORY PROGRESS
GREATER DES MOINES AND THE STATE OF IOWA HAVE A LONG HISTORY OF LEADERSHIP ON PROGRESSIVE ISSUES.
1839 A fitting ruling for Independence Day, and seven years before the Iowa Territory would become a state, its newly formed Supreme Court ruled that a slave was a person, not property, and could not be returned to his “master” in Missouri.
“Shattering Silence,” (2009 by James Ellwanger) a sculpture outside the Iowa Supreme Court, commemorates Ralph Montgomery’s case.
1851 Iowa legalized interracial marriage more than a century before the U.S. Supreme Court guaranteed this right for all Americans in the 1967 landmark case Loving v. Virginia.
1855 The University of Iowa became the first state university in the nation to admit men and women on an equal basis.
1869 Long before women had the right to vote, Iowa’s Julia C. Addington became the first woman elected to public office in Iowa (Superintendent of Schools for Mitchell County in 1869), and she is believed to be the first woman elected to public office in the United States.
1869 Iowan Arabella A. Mansfield was the first woman admitted to the practice of law in any state in the nation.
1917 Fort Des Moines became the country’s first officer training school for African Americans.
1925 At a time when the American Bar Association and other national legal associations denied membership to African Americans, 12 attorneys founded the National Bar Association (NBA) in Des Moines. A sculpture at the corner of Grand and 2nd Avenues, entitled “A Monumental Journey” (July 2018 by Kerry James Marshall) pays tribute to the NBA’s founders.
1934 The Mother Mosque of America is completed in Iowa, and the first building designed and constructed as a house of worship for Muslims in America.
1942 During World War II, Fort Des Moines was selected as the site of the first Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps training center.
1970s Robert D. Ray, Iowa governor from 1969 to 1983, was the first public official anywhere in the United States to offer a safe haven for the endangered Vietnamese “Boat People.” The Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens, located downtown along the Des Moines River, are a tribute to Ray’s work and a celebration of diversity within the community.
2007 Iowa outlawed discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
2009 In a unanimous decision for the Varnum v. Brien case, the Iowa Supreme Court upheld the right of same-sex couples to marry, six years before the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case, Obergefell v. Hodges, would do the same.
38
SHATTERING SILENCE
A MONUMENTAL JOURNEY
ABOUT
JOHN DEERE CHINESE PAVILION
Des Moines. The S’s Are Silent. Our Voices Cannot Be.
Catch Des Moines brings visitors to Greater Des Moines. With that comes the responsibility to make everyone feel welcome, no matter their nationality, race, religion, gender, ability, or sexual orientation. These visitors not only support jobs and our quality of life, but some will also become our neighbors, co-workers, coaches, teachers, and civic leaders.
We want all visitors to see our region as the progressive and inclusive place that we strive for it to be. We also want our region’s minority-owned businesses, retailers, and attractions – the lifeblood of our communities and neighborhoods – to feel supported and valued. We understand that diversity is what inspires learning, advances innovation, is a catalyst for creativity, and makes life that much more exciting and fun. After all, we’re in the travel industry, and why do people travel if not to experience new and diverse things?
We must continuously adjust to the changing world and seek to understand and learn from those around us. Talking is easy. Doing takes some work.
So, what can we do as an organization to stand with and support our community and those who visit us too?
We will and have:
Evolve and grow our Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee to gain actionable insights from diverse groups within the meetings and event industry.
Continue to make a concerted effort to bring in conventions and events serving people of color (POC), religious conventions, human rights organizations, and other diverse groups. We work to make sure everyone coming here feels welcome, safe, and valued.
Support our POC and minority-owned businesses and organizations by elevating them through marketing and sharing their stories.
Continue to be a resource for POC-owned businesses and event organizers to help them make the right connections to ensure their success.
Bring POC and other leaders of diverse communities to the table and LISTEN.
These concepts can and should be applied to all underrepresented groups. There are no easy answers, but we know that it all starts with listening and then putting in the work.
We listened, and we’re putting our words into action.
AROUND TOWN 39 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE
YOU
ADMINISTRATION
Greg Edwards President & CEO greg@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3438
Shannon Winters, CDME, SHRM-CP Vice President of Finance & Human Resources shannon@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3440
Laura McNichols Director of Administration laura@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3449
Nick Allen Business Systems & Data Coordinator nick@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3467
Lynn Oswald Accounting Coordinator lynn@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3451
Paula Gleason Receptionist paula@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3430
Janet Koerner Receptionist janet@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3430
Dave Ballman Shipping & Receiving Clerk shipping@catchdesmoines.com
CONVENTIONS, SPORTS & EVENT EXPERIENCE
Trina Flack, CMP Vice President of Sales (Political, Sports) trina@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3431
Chris Baker Director of Event Experience chris@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3456
Katie Stien, CMP
CONTACT
400 Locust Street Suite 265 Des Moines, IA 50309
(800) 451-2625
(515) 286-4960
catchdesmoines.com
National Sales & Business Development Manager (Agriculture, Natural Resources, Science and Engineering, Motorcoach) katies@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3432
Amber Smith National Sales Manager (Health & Medical, Government, Professional Association, Gymnastics/Dance) amber@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3464
Kelly Smith, CMP National Sales Manager (Education, Religious, Hobby) kelly@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3448
Laura Jass National Sports Sales & Events Manager lauraj@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3455
Carolyn Devine Sales & Project Manager carolyn@catchdesmoines.com (515) 699-3460
Bailee Arnburg Event Experience Manager bailee@catchdesmoines.com (515) 699-3445
Heather Ashton Event Experience Manager heather@catchdesmoines.com (515) 699-3454
Mary Ann Moore Sales Coordinator maryann@catchdesmoines.com (515) 699-3444
Devyn Atzen Housing Coordinator devyn@catchdesmoines.com (515) 699-3446
Sue Clark Airport Volunteer Coordinator sue@catchdesmoines.com
MARKETING
Brock Konrad Vice President of Marketing brock@catchdesmoines.com (515) 699-3463
Ben Handfelt Director of Creative & Communications ben@catchdesmoines.com (515) 699-3433
Justin Zerfas Senior Marketing Manager justin@catchdesmoines.com (515) 699-3457
Jenna Schaeffer Partner Fulfillment Manager jenna@catchdesmoines.com (515) 699-3442
Tessa Simons
Partner Sales Manager tessa@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3434
Alex Wilson Communications & PR Manager alex@catchdesmoines.com
(515) 699-3466
Claire Strickland Web & Social Media Specialist claire@catchdesmoines.com (515) 699-3448
Stacey Willey Senior Graphic Designer stacey@catchdesmoines.com (515) 699-3437
40
US
PROBABLY
HERD We're nice.
HAVE
(It's true!)
ABOUT
You probably haven't heard: Des Moines is the world's 3rd largest insurance center after London and Hartford, CT.
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IF YOU SEE DES BEST AROUND DES MOINES, YOU’RE AT THE RIGHT PLACE. THIS EMBLEM MEANS SOMEWHERE OR SOMETHING HAS BEEN RECOGNIZED BY LOCALS AS THE BEST AROUND.
DISCOVER DES BEST OF DES MOINES.
VENUES 42 CATCH DES MOINES 2023 PLANNER'S GUIDE
