MEDIA GUIDE 2024 iowacaucuses2024.com 2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
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DES MOINES. ONLY THE S’S ARE SILENT. Our region is making noise and experiencing a wave of national momentum. But don’t just take our word for it. Follow the buzz.
#1 Place for Young Professionals to Live — Forbes, 2023
#6 Best Place to Live for Families — U.S. News & World Report, 2023
Top 25 Up-and-Coming Tech Market — CBRE, 2023
Top 10 Fastest-Growing Mid-Sized Metro — Site Selection Group, 2023
#4 Most Arts-Vibrant Mid-Sized Community — SMU DataArts, 2022
#7 Lowest Cost of Living in the U.S. — Apartment List, 2023
Top 20 Most Neighborly City in the U.S. — Neighbor, 2023
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2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
#8 Top Place to Start a Business — Lending Tree, 2023
Top 20 Best Place to Live in the U.S. — U.S. News & World Report, 2022
Top 10 Best State Capital to Live in — WalletHub, 2019
Best Mid-Size Town in the Midwest — Midwest Living, 2022
#1 Place with Good Jobs and Cheap Housing — Investopedia, 2019
#3 Best City for High Salaries and Low Cost of Living — The Ascent, 2019
#8 Best U.S. City for Work-Life Balance — GOBankingRates, 2019
Top 5 Presidential Campaign Stops That Are Also Awesome Places to Live — Livability, 2019
WE HAVE ALL THE THINGS. The Iowa Caucus Consortium is your one-stop shop for all things related to the Caucuses. Visit iowacaucuses2024.com for resources to help you fully cover the first-in-the-nation Iowa Caucuses. Photo and Video Resources Video Shoot Locations Iowa Caucus History Best of Des Moines Story Starters and Interview Sources Candidate Event Calendar
For live updates on the Iowa Caucuses, follow us on X.
#iacaucus2024 If you are interested in other story starters, interview sources or footage location information you can reach out to Courtney Shaw (cshaw@DSMpartnership.com) or Alex Wilson (alex@catchdesmoines.com). 2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
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STATISTICS
Greater Des Moines is home to many business successes and has received numerous accolades over the past several years. Such accomplishments can be attributed to Greater Des Moines’ talented and educated workforce and strong business economy. The following economic, demographic and workforce data support Greater Des Moines’ successes and reputation as one of the best regions for business.
Fastest-Growing Major Metro in the Midwest — U.S. Census Bureau, 2022
11 Counties | 850,481 Residents
— U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 estimate
DSM USA 94.2% graduation rate f or the Class of 2022.
— Iowa Department of Education
FUN FACT
The region is often referred to as DSM USA. 49.3% of residents aged 25 – 64 have an Associate’s degree or higher. — JobsEQ
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COST OF LIVING IS
13.5
COST OF DOING BUSINESS IS
LOWER 12 LOWER THAN NATIONAL AVERAGE %
%
— Moody’s Analytics
— JobsEQ
POPULATION GROWTH 2012 - 2022
16.3%
SOURCE: U.S. CENSUS BUREAU
-0.9% -0.5% CHICAGO
MILWAUKEE
8.4%
8.4%
KANSAS CITY
MINNEAPOLIS
10.4%
DES MOINES, IOWA
THAN NATIONAL AVERAGE
OMAHA
DSM
0.2% ST. LOUIS
EMPLOYMENT GROWTH 2012 - 2022 SOURCE: U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS
3.8% MILWAUKEE
6.4%
OMAHA
7.6%
CHICAGO
8.0%
ST. LOUIS
9.2%
MINNEAPOLIS
12.2%
DES MOINES, IOWA
17.5%
KANSAS CITY
DSM
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IOWA CAUCUS HISTORY: A LOOK BACK AT IOWA’S FIRST-IN-THE-NATION CAUCUSES
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2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
Every four years since 1972, Iowa’s first-in-the-nation Caucuses help “hire” the president of the United States. In fact, every U.S. president since Jimmy Carter finished among the top three in the Iowa Caucuses — except when Iowa’s own Tom Harkin ran in 1992. Iowans take this responsibility and privilege seriously. Iowans are engaged, informed and they ask tough questions that force candidates to address a spectrum of issues. Activists in Iowa often raise topics and policy positions that also are important to activists in the national party. This responsibility and privilege comes again on January 15, 2024, when Iowans gather in auditoriums, gymnasiums and other places across the state to shape the future of the United States and the world.
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DEMOCRATIC PARTY RESULTS *IN ORDER OF PLACE FINISHED
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2020
Pete Buttigieg Bernie Sanders Elizabeth Warren
2016
Hillary Clinton Bernie Sanders Martin O’Malley
2012
Barack Obama (Unopposed)
2008
Barack Obama John Edwards Hillary Clinton
2004
John Kerry John Edwards Howard Dean
2000
Al Gore Bill Bradley
1996
Bill Clinton (Unopposed)
1992
Tom Harkin Paul Tsongas Bill Clinton
1988
Richard Gephardt Paul Simon Michael Dukakis
1984
Walter Mondale Gary Hart George McGovern
1980
Jimmy Carter Ted Kennedy
1976
Jimmy Carter
1972
Edmund Muskie George McGovern
REPUBLICAN PARTY RESULTS *IN ORDER OF PLACE FINISHED
2020 2016
2012
Donald Trump Bill Weld Joe Walsh Ted Cruz Donald Trump Marco Rubio Ben Carson Rand Paul Jeb Bush Carly Fiorina John Kasich Mike Huckabee Chris Christie Rick Santorum Jim Gilmore
2008
Mike Huckabee Mitt Romney Fred Thompson John McCain
2004
George W. Bush (Unopposed)
2000
George W. Bush Steve Forbes Alan Keyes
1996
Bob Dole Pat Buchanan
1992
George H.W. Bush (Unopposed)
1988
Bob Dole Pat Robertson George H.W. Bush
1984
Ronald Reagan (Unopposed)
1980
George H.W. Bush Ronald Reagan
1976
Gerald Ford Ronald Reagan * The Republicans did not hold a Caucus in Iowa in 1972.
Rick Santorum Mitt Romney Ron Paul Newt Gingrich Rick Perry Michele Bachmann Jon Huntsman
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FOOTAGE LOCATIONS AND POINTS OF INTEREST IN
DOWNTOWN DSM
Greater Des Moines offers many diverse vantage points and backdrops for live shots, interviews, b-roll and more. This list is a sampling of what the region has to offer.
MacRae Park
MEDIA CENTER
Centrally located in downtown Des Moines, this 28,800 square foot space has easy load in, state-of-the-art AV capabilities and flexible space accommodations to meet your needs. The Media Center is located at the Iowa Events Center, and will be open from Noon on Thursday, January 11 through Noon on Tuesday, January 16. Iowa Events Center 730 3rd Street, Des Moines ★ iowaeventscenter.com
WORLD FOOD PRIZE
Open to the public on Tuesdays and Saturdays, the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates is a one-of-a-kind museum that celebrates those who dedicate their lives to fight hunger across the world. 100 Locust Street, Des Moines ★ halloflaureates.org
HISTORIC EAST VILLAGE
Looking for a retail background? The Historic East Village is nationally recognized as an up-and-coming neighborhood with a cool vibe. The Historic East Village features more than 200 shops and services and more than 20 unique restaurants. The corner of Grand and 5th is a great place to get a shot of the stores with the Capitol Building to the east. ★ eastvillagedesmoines.com
STATE HISTORICAL MUSEUM OF IOWA
The State Historical Museum of Iowa exhibits and cares for a rich collection of more than 80,000 historic artifacts while also providing history education programs for children, families and learners of all ages. Visitors can discover Iowa’s heritage through a variety of experiences including exploring 50,000 square feet of exhibition galleries, tours, collections, education programs and events throughout the year. 600 E Locust Street, Des Moines ★ history.iowa.gov
IOWA STATE CAPITOL
With a 23 and 3/4 karat gold leaf dome that has been gilded six times, the Iowa State Capitol is regarded as one of the most beautiful Capitols in the nation. Camera shots could either face the Capitol or face one of the most sought after views of the downtown Des Moines skyline looking west from the Capitol steps. 1007 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines ★ legis.iowa.gov/resources/tourCapitol
JOHN & MARY PAPPAJOHN SCULPTURE PARK
With 31 works of art, the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park attracts families and visitors of all ages. The park is an openair area in the heart of the city’s urban core with the city’s downtown skyline shining above it. The “Nomade” sculpture created by world-renowned artist and sculptor Jaume Plensa has become an unofficial symbol of DSM. The Krause Gateway Center — a Renzo Piano design — or the University of Iowa John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center can offer an attractive backdrop. 1330 Grand Avenue, Des Moines ★ desmoinesartcenter.org/visit/pappajohnsculpture-park
MACRAE PARK
The park offers great views of the south side of the downtown Des Moines skyline. 1021 Davis Avenue, Des Moines *Refer to map on pages 12-13
For more information and ideas, contact Courtney Shaw, Chief Communications Officer at the Greater Des Moines Partnership, at cshaw@DSMpartnership.com.
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DES MOINES MEDICAL CENTER
DOWNTOWN DES MOINES
HOLIDAY INN DOWNTOWN AT MERCY CAMPUS
Skywalks Temporary Closing COMFORT INN & SUITES EVENT CENTER
Convention Center/Arena Access Points
(OPEN DURING EVENTS)
St
Crocker St
2nd Ave
3rd
5th Ave
6th AVE
7th St
8th St
12th St
9th St
Buildings Accessed by Skywalk Hotels
SKA TE
ay aW qu au os Ke
Skywalk/Street Level Access Points
FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES DES MOINES
LAU RID SEN
S
Crocker St
Points of Interest
P
Public Parking
B
BCycle Kiosks (bicycle rental)
COMMUNITY CHOICE CONVENTION CENTER
iowacaucuses2024.com
Ke os au qu a
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IOWA EVENTS CENTER
S
W ay
Center St
WELLS FARGO ARENA
RIVERWALK PARK
Center St HY-VEE HALL
(515) 286-4960 | (800) 451-2625 HILTON DES MOINES DOWNTOWN
S
Park St
Watson Powell Jr. Way
Watson Powell Jr. Way
S
B
Pleasant St
WELLMARK YMCA
Woodland Ave
S
S
S
S
ve 5th A
7th St
SURETY HOTEL
B
HISTORIC COURT DIST
B
St
St
y St Cherr
DART CENTRAL BUS STATION (PUBLIC TRANSIT)
B SCIENCE CENTER OF IOWA
r King Jr. n Luthe W Marti
Pkwy
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES DES MOINES DOWNTOWN
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JOHN & MARY PAPPAJOHN SCULPTURE PARK 2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
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S
S
9th St
10th
St
S
12th
t rry S Mulbe
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8th St
S
HOTEL FORT DES MOINES, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON
11th
WESTERN GATEWAY PARK
S
S
S
t St Walnu
S ve 6th A
St
St 15th
S
S
st St Locu
S
Walnu
S
3rd St
St
13th
JOHN & MARY PAPPAJOHN SCULPTURE PARK
B
COWLES COMMONS
S S S
st ST Locu
S
4th St
12th
14th St
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DES MOINES PUBLIC LIBRARY
DES LUX HOTEL
WORLD F PRIZE HA LAUREA
DES MOINES CIVIC CENTER
CATCH DES MOINES INFORMATION CENTER
S S
S
DES MOINES TEMPLE THEATER
st St Locu
S S
S
S
Ave Grand
RENAISSANCE SAVERY DES MOINES DOWNTOWN
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HYATT PLACE DES MOINES DOWNTOWN
DES MOINES MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN
S
e Av oll ers Ing
Ave Grand
S
Ave
S
S
S
S
High St
B
Grand
B
UNITY POINT IOWA METHODIST MEDICAL CENTER
HOYT HERMAN PLACE
2nd Ave
S
3rd St
4TH St
5th Ave
6th AVE
Chestnut St
7th St
8th St
9th St
10th St
MAINFRAME STUDIOS
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MEDIA CENTER
3
WORLD FOOD PRIZE HALL OF LAUREATES
ver
St
Moi nes Ri
St
E 6th
E 7th St
E 12th
EPA RK
GREATER DES MOINES BOTANICAL GARDEN
Des
Des
ROBERT D. RAY ASIAN GARDENS
sS Moine
St Lyon
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B
6
St
Des
s St Moine
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d St E 2n
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IOWA STATE CAPITOL
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r
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STATE HISTORICAL MUSEUM OF IOWA
ve nd A E Gra
BRENTON SKATING PLAZA
D bine Fink
ay D tDR
WALK L RIVER
IPA PRINC
IOWA WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT BRIDGE
AC HOTEL BY MARRIOTT DES MOINES EAST VILLAGE
B
St
St
E 5th
E 7th
E 6th
St cust
E Lo
B
St
E 3rd
E 1st
t nut S E Wal
HISTORIC EAST VILLAGE
4
rt Ave E Cou
St
L CIPA PRIN ALK RW RIVE
ut St
STAYBRIDGE SUITES DES MOINES DOWNTOWN
St
3
FOOD ALL OF ATES
DOWNTOWN
E 4th
St
d St E 2n
EMBASSY SUITES DES MOINES SIMON ESTES RIVERFRONT AMPHITHEATER
S
Court
Ave
e St E Vin
Ave 2nd
St Water
B
t ket S E Mar RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT DES MOINES DOWNTOWN
TRICT
HAMPTON INN & SUITES DOWNTOWN
PRINCIPAL PARK
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HISTORIC EAST VILLAGE
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STATE HISTORICAL MUSEUM OF IOWA
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IOWA STATE CAPITOL
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FOOTAGE LOCATIONS AND POINTS OF INTEREST
OUTSIDE DOWNTOWN DSM
High Trestle Trail
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2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
HISTORIC VALLEY JUNCTION
Founded in 1846, and later becoming a stop for the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad, Historic Valley Junction provides opportunities to use a vibrant retail setting as a backdrop. The area is easily accessible, just five miles from downtown Des Moines in the suburb of West Des Moines. 4th - 7th blocks of Railroad Avenue & Locust Street, West Des Moines
DRAKE UNIVERSITY
Near downtown Des Moines, Drake University provides an urban college campus backdrop with indoor and outdoor locations that can meet media needs throughout the year. 2507 University Avenue, Des Moines
GRAND VIEW UNIVERSITY
Grand View University gives a vibrant college setting and is just a 10-minute drive from downtown Des Moines. 1200 Grandview Avenue, Des Moines
IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY
About 45 minutes from downtown Des Moines, the iconic Campanile and surrounding Central Campus at Iowa State provide an attractive backdrop. 3810 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames
MEREDITH TRAIL
The Meredith Trail near downtown Des Moines provides a panoramic view of the skyline and the Principal Park baseball stadium. Find parking on Southeast First Street near the restaurant Mullets, or reach it on foot by walking south along the Principal Riverwalk past Principal Park. 2102 Fleur Drive, Des Moines
COVERED BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY
For a scenic outdoor backdrop off the beaten path about a 50-minute drive from downtown Des Moines, check out the Covered Bridges in Madison County, popularized by Robert James Waller’s novel “The Bridges of Madison County” and the feature film starring Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood. Madison County
HIGH TRESTLE TRAIL
About 40 minutes from downtown Des Moines, the High Trestle Trail’s iconic half-mile, 13-story high bridge across the Des Moines River is one of the most unique pedestrian or bicycling bridges you will find. North Main Street, Woodward
PELLA TOWN SQUARE
For a taste of small town America, about a 45-minute drive from downtown Des Moines, check out Pella’s unique town square with a variety of stores, restaurants and coffee shops fitted with Dutch architecture. Pella is also home to Central College for a small college campus backdrop. 825 Broadway Street, Pella
INDIANOLA TOWN SQUARE
A 30-minute drive from downtown Des Moines, the Indianola Town Square provides an eclectic array of shops and restaurants as a backdrop. Simpson College can also provide a beautiful college campus visual. 110 N 1st Street, Indianola
GRAY’S LAKE
The 100-acre Gray’s Lake on the southwestern edge of downtown Des Moines a great location to capture b-roll of a beautifully lit bridge at dusk, evening or sunrise and a view of the downtown Des Moines skyline about a mile away. 2101 Fleur Drive, Des Moines
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THE IOWA CAUCUS CONSORTIUM The Iowa Caucus Consortium highlights Iowa’s first-in-the-nation Caucus status by providing the media and candidates with a meaningful, positive experience while showcasing the best that the state and region have to offer. The consortium is led by Catch Des Moines and the Greater Des Moines Partnership, as well as close collaboration with the Iowa Democratic Party and the Republican Party of Iowa. The Consortium manages the media credentialing process, including the Media Center at the Iowa Events Center, as well as hosting numerous events leading up to the Iowa Caucuses on Monday, January 15. The Consortium is a resource for media support including b-roll, community engagement and information about the region. To track the Consortium’s ongoing efforts, follow @IAcaucus2024 on X and use the hashtag #iacaucus2024.
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2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
CATCH DES MOINES The Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, collectively known as Catch Des Moines, is the official destination marketing organization promoting and representing Greater Des Moines to leisure travelers and meeting/sports planners. Our focus is to increase visitors to the metro and elevate the visitor experience to drive economic success and enhance the quality of life in the 14 local Greater Des Moines communities we represent. For more information, visit catchdesmoines.com.
GREATER DES MOINES PARTNERSHIP The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and more than 400 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Visit DSMpartnership.com for more information.
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CONSORTIUM CONTACT INFORMATION For information on Greater Des Moines tourism, attractions and hospitality and assistance with Greater Des Moines interviews, photos and b-roll, contact:
CATCH DES MOINES
Brock Konrad
Vice President of Marketing 515.699.3463 brock@catchdesmoines.com
Ben Handfelt
Director of Creative & Communications 515.699.3433 ben@catchdesmoines.com
Alex Wilson
Communications & PR Manager 515.699.3466 alex@catchdesmoines.com
For information on Greater Des Moines economic and community development, questions regarding events, forums, credentialing and assistance with interviews, photos and b-roll, contact:
GREATER DES MOINES PARTNERSHIP
Courtney Shaw
Chief Communications Officer 515.286.4919 cshaw@DSMpartnership.com
Kyle Oppenhuizen
Vice President of Communications 515.286.4972 koppenhuizen@DSMpartnership.com
For live updates on the Iowa Caucuses, follow us on X.
#iacaucus2024 18
2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
MEDIA CENTER INFORMATION Iowa Events Center 730 3rd Street Des Moines, IA 50309 515.564.8000
Sales Staff
Carrie Jackson carrie.jackson@oakviewgroup.com 515.418.2628
Event Staff
Lyndsey Lomelino lyndsey.lonelino@oakviewgroup.com 515.979.6043 Elliott Klein elliott.klein@oakviewgroup.com 515.418.2631
Lumen Camera Fiber Casey Pilon Casey.Pilon@lumen.com 407.439.2798
City of Des Moines Parking and Permits Jody Treloar Rouse jltreloarrouse@dmgov.org 515.248.6331
Media Center Hours
Noon on January 11 through Noon on January 16 2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
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CAN’T MISS RESTAURANTS & NIGHTLIFE From early mornings to late nights, get an authentic taste of Des Moines with these popular spots.
Lucky Lotus
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2024 IOWA CAUCUS
Breakfast Club
Big Grove Brewery
Fong’s Pizza
Waveland Cafe
Jethro’s
Harbinger
Centro
Iowa Taproom
St. Kilda’s
Hello, Marjorie
Malo’s
Bellhop 2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
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RESTAURANTS
BIG GROVE BREWERY
The opening of the new taproom from popular Iowa City brewery Big Grove was a big deal. The 12,000-square-foot taproom in Sherman Hill features two large bars, a full food menu and flagship beers like Easy Eddy. Sunday funday, anyone? 555 17th Street, Des Moines ★ biggrove.com
BREAKFAST CLUB
This East Village brunch hotspot is the place to go for big portions and an even bigger drink menu. 212 E 3rd Street Ste B, Des Moines ★ thebreakfastclubusa.com
CENTRO
The epicenter of downtown Des Moines dining, Centro is where you go to see and be seen. Specializing in Italian dishes and coal-fired pizzas. 1003 Locust Street, Des Moines ★ centrodesmoines.com
CHEESE BAR
FONG’S PIZZA
Alton Brown called their crab rangoon pizza the “best thing I ever ate,” and who are we to disagree? Pair with a tiki drink and fighter helmet. 223 4th Street, Des Moines ★ fongspizza.com
HARBINGER
Opened by four-time James Beard nominee, Joe Tripp, Harbinger is the must-try farm to table spot with American dishes infused with Asian flavors. 2724 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines ★ harbingerdsm.com
JETHRO’S BBQ ALL STARS
This BBQ giant has seven locations around the metro, each specializing in a different area, from bacon to pork chops to jambalaya. The new downtown “All-Star” location gives you the greatest hits from all of them. 721 3rd Street, Des Moines ★ jethrosdesmoines.com
Its sister location, The Cheese Shop, was awarded America’s Favorite Cheese Shop in 2018 by Hoodline.com, but this location on Ingersoll adds to the repertoire with a full kitchen and one of the most interesting beer lists in the city. 2925 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines ★ cheesebardsm.com
LATIN KING
DJANGO
WAVELAND CAFE
This popular and unpretentious French bistro provides a prime view of the downtown Sculpture Park along with the best steak frites and onion rings in town. 1420 Locust Steet, Des Moines ★ djangodesmoines.com
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2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
An old-school Des Moines stalwart where you can’t leave without trying Des Moines’ signature dish, Steak de Burgo — beef tenderloin topped with butter, garlic and Italian herbs. 2200 Hubbell Aveue, Des Moines ★ latinkingdsm.com
This no-frills breakfast spot is known for hearty portions and crispy hash browns and is the go-to stop for everyone from locals to visiting politicians and even Jason Momoa. 4708 University Avenue, Des Moines ★ wavelandcafe.com
NIGHTLIFE
BEECHWOOD
CONFLUENCE BREWERY
BELLHOP
HELLO, MARJORIE
Located just a few blocks from the House and Senate office building, Beechwood is another dive bar that is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. 416 E Walnut Steet, Des Moines ★ facebook.com/beech.wood.31
The new kid on the block, this tiki lounge brings a Palm Springs vibe to the East Village. Head over to the nearby Ernie’s Boondock if cheap beer and food trucks are more your style. 440 E Grand Aveue, Des Moines ★ bellhoptikidsm.com
CARL’S PLACE
This Des Moines institution is a welcoming dive bar that has long been the unofficial headquarters of both campaign staffers and media. 1620 Woodland Aveue, Des Moines ★ shermanhilldsm.org/directory/carls-place
This ambitious brewery debuts a new release every Friday and is home to the always popular and aptly named Des Moines IPA. 1235 Thomas Beck Road, Des Moines ★confluencebrewing.com
Located in the old Des Moines Register building, this spacious lounge is one of the most well respected (not to mention Instagrammable) cocktail lounges in town. 717 Locust Street, Des Moines ★ hellomarjorie.com
IOWA TAPROOM
With 99 taps featuring all Iowa craft brews and elevated pub grub, like tenderloins and Iowa ham balls, this is a great place to enjoy a taste of Iowa. 215 E 3rd Street, Suite 100, Des Moines ★ iowataproom.com
Confluence Brewery
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LATE-NIGHT OPTIONS AMERICANA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE (American)
EL BAIT SHOP (American)
1312 Locust Street, Des Moines 515.283.1312 ★ americanadsm.com
Court District 200 SW 2nd Street, Des Moines 515.284.1970 ★ elbaitshop.com
11 A.M. – 9 P.M. MON – FRI; 9 A.M. – 9 P.M. SAT – SUN
11 A.M. – 11 P.M. SUN – THURS 11 A.M. – MIDNIGHT FRI – SAT
BUBBA SOUTHERN COMFORTS
HIGH LIFE LOUNGE (American)
(American | Southern) 200 10th Street, Des Moines 515.257.4744 ★ bubbadsm.com
Court District 200 SW 2nd Street, Des Moines 515.280.1965 ★ thehighlifelounge.com
11 A.M. – 9 P.M. MON – THURS; 11 A.M. – 10 P.M. FRI; 4 – 11 P.M. SAT; 10 A.M. – 10 P.M. SUN
11 A.M. – 11 P.M. SUN – THURS 11 A.M. – MIDNIGHT FRI – SAT
BUZZARD BILLY’S FLYING CARP CAFÉ (Cajun)
MALO (Latin)
900 Mulberry Street, Des Moines 515.244.5000 ★ malodesmoines.com
615 3rd Street, Des Moines 515.244.2899 ★ buzzardbillys.com
11 A.M. – 9 P.M. TUES – SAT
11 A.M. – 11 P.M. MON – THURS; 8 A.M. – MIDNIGHT FRI – SAT; 8 A.M. – 11 P.M. SUN
Court District 208 Court Avenue, Des Moines 515.282.3662 ★ rocadsm.com
COURT AVENUE RESTAURANT & BREWING COMPANY (Brew Pub)
4 P.M. – 10 P.M. MON – THURS; 4 P.M. – 11 P.M. FRI – SAT; 4:30 P.M. – 8:30 P.M SUN
Court District 309 Court Avenue, Des Moines 515.282.2739 ★ courtavebrew.com
11 A.M. – 10 P.M. MON – THU; 11 A.M. – 11 P.M. FRI; 10 A.M. – 11 P.M. SAT; 10 A.M. – 10 P.M. SUN
DRAKE DINER (American) 1111 25th Street, Des Moines 515.277.1111 ★ drakediner.com
7 A.M. – 3 P.M. MON – TUE; 7 A.M. – 9 P.M. WED & SUN; 7 A.M. – 10 P.M. THURS – SAT
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ROCA (Shared Plates)
ROYAL MILE (British)
Court District 210 4th Street, Des Moines 515.280.3771 ★ royalmilebar.com
11 A.M. – 2 A.M. MON – FRI; 10 A.M. – 2 A.M. SUN
ZOMBIE BURGER + DRINK LAB (American) Historic East Village 300 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines 515.244.9292 ★ zombieburgerdm.com
11 A.M. – 9 P.M. SUN – THURS; 11 A.M. – 10 P.M. FRI – SAT
CAFFINATE HORIZON LINE
Downtown 417 Walnut Street, Des Moines ★ horizonlinecoffee.com
SCENIC ROUTE BAKERY
Historic East Village 350 E Locust Street Suite 104, Des Moines ★ scenicroutebakerydsm.com
SMOKEY ROW
VIBRANT COFFEE HOUSE & KITCHEN
East Village 520 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines ★ vibrantcoffeehouseandkitchen.com/ desmoines
ZANZIBAR’S
Ingersoll 2723 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines ★ zanzibarscoffee.com
Sherman Hill 1910 Cottage Grove Avenue, Des Moines ★ smokeyrow.com/locations
Smokey Row
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BEST OF THE ‘BURBS
NOT STAYING DOWNTOWN? NO WORRIES. HERE’S A ROUNDUP OF SOME OF THE BEST THE ‘BURBS HAVE TO OFFER.
Firetrucker Brewery
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2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
BEST OF THE ‘BURBS
FIRETRUCKER BREWERY
Located right off the High Trestle Trail in Ankney’s Uptown District, Firetrucker has been quenching thirst out of a refurbished firehouse since 2014. Their slogan is “beer is art,” which is evident from their labels and posters to the time they put into honing their craft. 716 SW 3rd Street, Ankeny ★ firetrucker.com
GILROY’S
This West Des Moines favorite serves up stylish American comfort food and has a great happy hour from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. where they have $6 Moscow Mules and $11 pizzas. 1238 8th Street, West Des Moines ★ gilroyskitchen.com
JORDAN CREEK TOWN CENTER
The largest shopping complex in the state of Iowa resides in West Des Moines, and includes every store and restaurant you could reasonably desire. 101 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines ★ jordancreektowncenter.com
PRAIRIE CANARY RESTAURANT AND BAR
Located in a historic building on Main Street in Grinnell, Prairie Canary serves comfort food with a local flair. They typically prepare over 135 different items each week while using locally sourced ingredients. 924 Main Street, Grinnell ★ prairiecanary.com
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE The newly opened upscale steakhouse is 15,000 square feet of meat nirvana. 950 Jordan Creek Parkway, Suite 1100, West Des Moines
SMASHPARK
Pickleball, bocce ball, cornhole, shuffleboard, ping pong and beer pong. And we haven’t even mentioned the food. The world’s coolest backyard party, located in West Des Moines. 6625 Coachlight Drive, West Des Moines ★ smashpark.com/location/west-des-moines
TASTY TACOS
Home of the famous handmade flour taco, this fast food chain is a local favorite and regular winner of “Best Tacos in Town.” 6326 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines ★ tastytacos.com
THE DISTRICT AT PRAIRIE TRAIL Located in the suburb of Ankeny and among the fastest growing cities in the U.S. (U.S. Census Bureau), this is home to tons of retail boutiques, dining options and entertainment venues (indoors!). SW District Drive, Ankeny ★ thedistrictpt.com
THE HALL
This refurbished rail car building in Historic Valley Junction is now the home to a bustling beer hall with TVs, music and food trucks. 111 S 11th Street, West Des Moines ★ thehalldsm.com
5 BOROUGH BAGELS
New-York style bagels from transplanted New Yorkers, with locations in Clive and Urbandale. 13435 University Avenue, Suite 300, Clive 11101 Plum Drive, Urbandale ★ 5boroughbagels.com
★ ruthschrisphg.com/west-des-moines
2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
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CAN’T MISS ATTRACTIONS
Des Moines Art Center
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2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
DES MOINES CIVIC CENTER
Record crowds from across the country show up to watch world class theater at the Performing Arts Center, with Broadway shows like Hamilton and Dear Evan Hansen making early tour stops here. 221 Walnut Street, Des Moines ★ desmoinesperformingarts.org
WORLD FOOD PRIZE HALL OF LAUREATES
Open to the public on Tuesdays and Saturdays, the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates is a one-of-a-kind museum that celebrates those who dedicate their lives to fight hunger across the world. 100 Locust Street, Des Moines ★ halloflaureates.org
DES MOINES ART CENTER
“Stunning” would be the best word to describe the Des Moines Art Center. This internationally acclaimed museum houses impressive works by artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, including Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keefe and Henri Matisse. 4700 Grand Aveue, Des Moines ★ desmoinesartcenter.org
WOOLY’S & HOYT SHERMAN PLACE
If live music is your thing, check out a band at the decidedly alternative Wooly’s or the historic Hoyt Sherman Place. 504 E Locust Street, Des Moines ★ firstfleetconcerts.com/woolys 1501 Woodland Avenue, Des Moines ★ hoytsherman.org
RAYGUN
The self-proclaimed Greatest Store in the Universe sells cheeky, self-aware t-shirts that are candidate favorites and a mandatory souvenir from your time in Des Moines. 505 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines ★ raygunsite.com
JOHN & MARY PAPPAJOHN SCULPTURE PARK
The crown jewel of downtown, this 4.4-acre park features over 30 works of art, with the Des Moines skyline as its backdrop. 1330 Grand Avenue, Des Moines ★ desmoinesartcenter.org/visit/pappajohnsculpture-park
LAURIDSEN SKATEPARK
The country’s largest skate park is right here in Des Moines. Nestled along the Des Moines River, this 88,000-square-foot park is the perfect place to catch some air or live vicariously through those who do. 901 2nd Avenue, Des Moines ★ dsmskatepark.com
BRENTON SKATING PLAZA
You’re never too old to strap on ice skates at this Des Moines landmark, located along the Principal Riverwalk downtown. 440 E Grand Aveue, Des Moines ★ dsm.city
GREATER DES MOINES BOTANICAL GARDEN
Warm up in this 14-acre domed conservatory, home to over 1,000 varieties of exotic plants and one of the best restaurants in the city, Trellis. 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines ★ dmbotanicalgarden.com
KEEP YOUR EYES PEELED, PEOPLE. Check out the Des Best of Des Moines, as voted by locals, at catchdesmoines.com/desbest. It’s got everything from the best tenderloins and burgers to the best dive bars and breweries! 2024 IOWA CAUCUSES
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