Catch Des Moines Visitors Guide 2026

2026 VISITORS GUIDE TO GREATER DES MOINES

DES MOINES IN bloom

FRESH PICKS FOR UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS

INSIDE

HIDDEN GEMS | GROWN-UP FIELD TRIPS | THE WEST SIDE GUIDE | SANDWICH STORIES

MORE WAYS TO PLAY. ZERO WAYS TO BE BORED.

PICKLEBALL • PARTY DARTS • AXE THROWING • SHUFFLEBOARD • SCRATCH-DRIVEN FOOD • ARCADE IOWA’S LARGEST PATIO • YARD GAMES • CRAFT COCKTAILS • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

WEST DES MOINES, IA 6625 Coachlight Dr 1 block east of Jordan Creek Mall 515-313-0700 | www.smashpark.com C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

DISCOVER THE FUN! 6

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

MUSEUM ART SCHOOL SCULPTURE PARK

free admission desmoinesartcenter.org

4700 GRAND AVENUE | DES MOINES, IOWA 50312 C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

S K R A 2 PNE PRICE O

0 IA 500 , A N O TO DR, AL FOLLOW US D N A L • RE VENTU RESORT.COM D A 0 0 ND 32 URELA T N E V AD

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

INSIDE BUZZ

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The Contrary

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Middlebrook Agrihood

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Iconic Adventures Check off the Des Moines must-dos.

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Hidden Gems, Found Be in the know to where locals go.

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Events Calendar Circle the dates and make the memories.

PHOTO C OU RT E SY OF MI DDLE B R OOK AGR I DOOD

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Downtown Farmers’ Market

14 Des Moines Mercantile

B&B Grocery, Meat & Deli

The New Crop Harvesting new ways to play.

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West Side Story Your ultimate Jordan Creek weekend.

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Meet the Metro Say hello to the suburbs.

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EXPLORE

TASTE Cheers From Des Moines Stay hydrated from sunrise to sunset.

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Counter Culture Not all heroes wear capes.

Some stack sandwiches.

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Des Moines Food Hall of Fame Dig into Des Moines’ first-ballot flavors.

Putts & Pins

IN EVERY ISSUE 5 From Our CEO 46 Things to Do 50 Listings

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66 Maps

P HOTOS BY K AT HRYN GAM BLE

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

CATCH DES MOINES ADMINISTRATION TRINA FLACK, CDME, CMP

President & CEO

SHANNON WINTERS, CDME, SHRM-CP

Vice President of Finance & Human Resources LAURA MCNICHOLS

Director of Administration & Technology DAVE BALLMAN

CONVENTIONS, SPORTS, & EVENT EXPERIENCE CAROLYN ANDERSEN, CMP

Director of Strategic Projects

Shipping & Receiving Clerk

BAILEE ARNBURG

PAULA GLEASON

Director of Sports

Receptionist

CHRIS BAKER

LYNN OSWALD

Director of Event Experience

Accounting Coordinator

KELLY SMITH, CMP

MARKETING

Director of Convention Sales

BROCK KONRAD

AMBER SMITH

BEN HANDFELT

HEATHER ASHTON

JENNA GROSS

SUE CLARK

CAROLYN HIKIJI

CAYLIE HICKMAN

TESSA SIMONS

RYAN MCCALL

CLAIRE STRICKLAND

MARY ANN MOORE

JUSTIN ZERFAS

NATALIE RIGATUSO

Vice President of Marketing

Senior National Sales Manager

Director of Creative & Communications Graphic Designer Partner Sales Coordinator Partner Sales Manager Digital Media Manager Senior Marketing Manager

Event Experience Manager Airport Volunteer Coordinator National Sales Manager Sales Manager Sales Coordinator Sports Event Manager

ON OUR COVER Morgan Kofoid, Fernanda Macias, Erica Grace, Veronica Eclatt, and Vinny the dog. Photographed at the Des Moines Downtown Farmers’ Market in the Historic Court District.

Photographer KATHRYN GAMBLE

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.

CATCH DES MOINES REPRESENTS

Come for the Classics.

Stay for the Surprises.

CITY OF ALTOONA altoona-iowa.com

welc ome to gre ate r d e s moin e s , where the familiar meets the surprising and every visit invites a second look.

CITY OF ANKENY ankenyiowa.gov

CITY OF BONDURANT

Whether it’s your first or 50th time here, this place has a way of catching you off guard in the best way possible. We embrace our agricultural roots (you’ll see them in our farm-to-fork restaurants and Iowa State Fair showstoppers), but we are also a region full of bold creativity, buzzy neighborhoods, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

cityofbondurant.com

CITY OF CLIVE cityofclive.com

CITY OF DES MOINES dsm.city

This year’s Visitors Guide celebrates that blend — the iconic and the unexpected, side by side. You’ll find our “Des Moines Food Hall of Fame” honoring local culinary favorites like tenderloins and sweet corn. And you’ll uncover hidden gems, like a sandwich shop that seems frozen in time or a biergarten tucked inside a park, where you can sip a lager under string lights and oak trees. From downtown adventures to suburban surprises, there’s always something new to explore in Greater Des Moines.

CITY OF GRIMES grimesiowa.gov

CITY OF INDIANOLA indianolaiowa.gov

CITY OF JOHNSTON cityofjohnston.com

CITY OF NORWALK

As someone who’s spent my career showing off this region, I’m proud to now welcome you to the place I call home. This community has always punched above its weight, and what makes it truly special is the way it keeps evolving without losing sight of what got us here.

norwalk.iowa.gov

CITY OF PLEASANT HILL pleasanthilliowa.org

CITY OF POLK CITY

We hope this guide helps you dig in, sip up, and discover your own “who knew?” moments. And when you’re ready to plan, visit catchdesmoines.com for Des Best lists, custom itineraries, local videos, and our jam-packed events calendar.

polkcityia.gov

PH OTO BY IVORY HO USE PH OTOGRA PHY

CITY OF URBANDALE urbandale.org

CITY OF WEST DES MOINES wdm.iowa.gov

CITY OF WINDSOR HEIGHTS windsorheights.org

So go ahead. Explore the iconic. Uncover the unexpected. And catch the spirit of Greater Des Moines.

See you out there,

POLK COUNTY

polkcountyiowa.gov

TRINA FLACK

PRESIDENT & CEO

C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

2026 VISITORS GUIDE PRESIDENT & CEO

Trina Flack

VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING

Brock Konrad

EDITORIAL EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Ben Handfelt

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Megan Bannister Benjamin McElroy Madison Stano Karla Walsh

ART ART DIRECTOR & DESIGNER

find your true

Jenna Gross

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kathryn Gamble Zach Van Dorn

CONTRIBUTING ARTIST

Haleigh Anderson

SALES ADVERTISING SALES

Tessa Simons PRINTED BY

Universal Printing Services

GREATER DES MOINES BOTANICAL GARDEN

PHONE

(515) 286-4960

FREE TIME? FREE TOUR! THIS IS THE PLACE.

EMAIL

hello@catchdesmoines.com WEBSITE

catchdesmoines.com

#catchdsm

HOYTSHERMAN.ORG C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

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Copyright 2026, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, Inc. (GDMCVB). All rights reserved. Catch Des Moines is a registered trademark of GDMCVB. This publication may not be replicated, in whole or in part, without permission from GDMCVB. Catch Des Moines has made reasonable efforts to ensure the accuracy of the information in the Catch Des Moines Visitors Guide but assumes no responsibility for errors, changes, or omissions.

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

BUZZ WHAT EVERYONE’S RAVING ABOUT

Principal Park

B U C K E T L I S T T H I N G S TO D O | S E C R E T S P OT S | E V E N T S C A L E N DA R C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

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EXPLORE BU ZZ

ICONIC Photographers KATHRYN GAMBLE & ZACH VAN DORN

ADVENTURES es t ern w d i M s t e e ergy m H e r e ar e . s e n i o M Big ci t y en s e r ea t e r D k e t lis t ! c u b r u o c ha r m i n G y ings for 26 iconic t h Your Way Through 1 Eat the Iowa State Fair From gourmet lobster rolls to classic corn dogs, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The signature eats are as viral as they are delicious. Add A+ people-watching, sweeping sunset views from a Sky Glider, and a butter cow selfie, and you’ve got Iowa summer on a stick.

Iowa State Fair

to the Finish at 2 Race the Drake Relays Track stars, pole vaulters, and one fast-paced week in April have been electrifying Drake University’s Blue Oval since 1910. Insider tip: Stop by the tent party at Peggy’s Tavern to pregame (or postgame).

Drake Stadium

Iowa State Fair

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Local at the 3 Shop Downtown Farmers’ Market

Wake up with fresh flowers, hot coffee, sizzling breakfast burritos, and the hum of 25,000 of your new best friends. On Saturday mornings from May ­— October, this is where Des Moines shows off its freshest side.

Love, 4 Celebrate Community, and Pride

Off at the Principal 6 Tee Charity Classic Every June, catch golf legends on the PGA Tour Champions circuit as they chase birdies across Wakonda Club’s lush fairways, all to benefit Iowa’s children’s charities. Golf, but make it philanthropic.

Downtown Farmers’ Market

Des Moines’ Historic East Village comes alive with color, music, and good vibes during PrideFest in June. Catch live performances, join the family-friendly parade, grab bites from local food trucks, or dance away at the silent disco.

There’s joy around every corner, and everyone’s invited to the party.

the World at 5 Savor Des Moines’ Cultural Food Fests

Iowa’s Latino Heritage Festival, CelebrAsian, and the World Food & Music Festival are among the events that turn Western Gateway Park into a global flavor fiesta. Savor Pan-Asian delights, street tacos, and bites from every corner of the globe. Then dance it out to live music and cultural performances that bring the world’s best to downtown Des Moines.

7 Hike or Bike the High Trestle Trail Bridge

Iowa’s Latino Heritage Festival

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With glowing arches over the Des Moines River, the High Trestle Trail Bridge is the crown jewel of Greater Des Moines’ 800+ miles of connected trails. Bike it by day or under the lights at night and then branch out to other favorites like the Clive Greenbelt Trail and Bondurant’s Chichaqua Valley Trail.

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EXPLORE BU ZZ

8 Catch the Coolest Concerts at the Casey’s Center Iowa’s largest concert venue means the biggest stars come here first (and sometimes only!). With sold-out shows and electrifying performances, the Casey’s Center is where downtown Des Moines rocks harder than anywhere else in the state.

Des Moines Art Center

9 Discover Masterpieces at

Maid-Rite

the Des Moines Art Center

Principal Park

It’s free, fabulous, and packed with big names like O’Keeffe, Warhol, and Hopper.

Wander stunning galleries, soak in thought-provoking modern art, and admire the striking architecture that makes the building itself a masterpiece.

10 Eat Something Authentic

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Dig into the classics that define Greater Des Moines’ food scene. Whether it’s a giant breaded pork tenderloin, a messybut-magical loose meat sandwich (try one at Maid-Rite), or buttery, garlicky Steak de Burgo, the hits keep coming. For truly surprising bites, Des Moines is home to James Beard Award-winning chefs who will redefinewhat you thought you knew about Midwestern cuisine.

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Cheer Like a Local From First Pitch to Final Lap Baseball with the I-Cubs, hockey with the Wild, basketball with the Wolves, arena football with the Barnstormers, or roaring NASCAR weekends at the Iowa Speedway.

Whatever season you’re here, Greater Des Moines turns every sporting moment into a winner.

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a Selfie at Pappajohn 13 Snap Sculpture Park

Ride the Waves and Catch the Views

With more than two dozen giant, eye-catching sculptures, Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a modern art playground right in Western Gateway Park. Don’t miss “Nomade,” an epic, twisting steel masterpiece that’s begging to be a part of your new profile pic.

Rent a pontoon at Saylorville Lake, glide the serene ICON Water Trails by kayak, or float the Des Moines River on an inner tube with Seven Oaks Recreation.

Wrap up the day with golden-hour views at Gray’s Lake.

Adventure behind you, tranquility ahead.

Something Unexpected 14 Find in the Historic East Village

Across the river from downtown, the Historic East Village is the coolest neighborhood in town — a hip hub bursting with quirky shops, global eats, and stunning capitol views. With boutiques, bars, brunch spots, and some of Des Moines’ most colorful murals, this walkable hot spot is a vibe.

Your Luck at 15 Try Prairie Meadows

Bet on the ponies, hit the slots, or catch live entertainment. Lady Luck has an Iowa address at this Altoona casino, racetrack, and hotel. Don’t miss the occasional ostrich race for a wild twist.

Cap the night with a juicy steak at the casino’s acclaimed steakhouse.

Back in Time in 16 Travel Historic Valley Junction

PH OTO BY MADE LEIN E KIN G

Historic buildings house eclectic shops, vintage treasures, and cozy cafés in this artsy, walkable West Des Moines district. Hit up Skylabs Audio Shop for vinyl and classic stereos and the Thursday evening farmers market May — September for fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and a community vibe.

17 Explore Art in the Streets at the Des Moines Arts Festival Every June, 200-plus artists take over Western Gateway Park for a walkable gallery with live music, food, and interactive fun. With 200,000 visitors each year and 15 Grand Pinnacle Awards, this festival is a major downtown bash that dazzles every time.

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Skylabs Audio Shop

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EXPLORE BU ZZ

Buzz

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Play, and Dine 18 Shop, at Jordan Creek

Explore Iowa’s Five-Domed Capitol

Iowa’s biggest shopping hub is more than just stores. Spend the day shopping for your favorite finds, playing pickleball, swinging at Topgolf, rolling strikes in duckpin bowling, or sampling dishes at restaurants for every taste.

With its majestic golden dome, Iowa’s state capitol is easy to spot. Inside, climb to the top of the only five-domed state capitol in the country, wander through the stunning Gilded Age interiors, and peruse the beautiful law library, with stunning architecture that makes this building a true crown jewel of Des Moines.

Your Curiosity at 19 Pique the Science Center of Iowa Blast off to outer space, build your dream robot, and go wild at the “Brick by Brick” Lego exhibit. Then kick back under the planetarium’s stars for a dazzling sky show, with fun and wow moments for curious kids and grown-ups alike.

P H OTO BY DR E W DAU

20 See a Show, Make a Memory

Catch Broadway blockbusters at the Des Moines Civic Center. “Hamilton” made one of its first stops here. Or step inside the stunning, century-old Hoyt Sherman Place, a historic mansion turned theater where intimate performances and art collections bring the past to life in grand style.

21 Get Wild at the Blank Park Zoo Feed alpacas, see red pandas scaling trees, and watch splashing sea lions put on a show. With playful primates, colorful birds, and more, Blank Park Zoo is full of surprises and animal antics around every corner.

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Blank Park Zoo

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23 Party Under the Stars at Hinterland Music Festival

Hinterland has turned into one of the nation’s trendiest music festivals, where “Iowa Nice” meets coastal cool. Catch rising stars like Chappell Roan and Noah Kahan while camping under the St. Charles stars and soaking up all the folk, Americana, and indie pop vibes.

P H OTO BY GABY DE I ME K E

Center Grove Orchard

Adventureland Park

on Cider 24 Snack Doughnuts at Center Grove Orchard

This Cambridge farm is a fall playground of corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and hayrides. Grab a cider doughnut (or two) for the road, pick your own pumpkins, and meet the farm’s adorable baby goats along the way.

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Splash, 25 Spin, and Soar at

Wander the Tropics at the Botanical Garden

Adventureland Park A beloved Iowa staple since the 1970s, Adventureland blends nostalgia with fresh thrills — classic rides you grew up with alongside exciting new attractions.

With roller coasters, water slides, and so much more, it’s where childhood memories meet today’s summer fun.

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Step into a plant paradise filled with rare orchids, lush greenery, and scenic riverwalk paths at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. After exploring, refuel at Flora, the on-site restaurant serving fresh, flavorful dishes inspired by the garden’s natural beauty.

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EXPLORE BU ZZ Photographer KATHRYN GAMBLE

HIDDEN GEMS, From basement eats to under-the-radar streets, these gems are hiding in plain sight.

d n u o F

The Restaurant Tom Archer’s Poor Man’s Country Club

Tucked away in the basement of the historic and newly restored Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines, Tom Archer’s blends Sinatra vibes with juicy steaks, ice cold martinis, and hearty doses of both nostalgia and contemporary cool. Named after the concert promoter and original owner of the ballroom, which opened in 1939, Tom Archer’s is modeled after old-school supper clubs with wood paneling, U-shape booths wrapped in burgundy leather, and black-andwhite photos celebrating the venue’s history. The seasonal menu includes supper club staples like a relish tray and shrimp cocktail, along with Iowa classics like Steak de Burgo and grilled pork chops. It’s a place that’s sentimental enough for Grandma and hip enough for the most discerning foodie. Dinner and a show have never felt so fundamental.

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

The Bar Des Moines Biergarten

Water Works Park is many things. Urban oasis with 1,500 acres. Concert venue.

Crabapple arboretum. And more recently, secret German beer garden nestled under a tree canopy just east of the Lauridsen Amphitheater. You don’t need to be German to enjoy beer in a stein as big as your head, Bavarian pretzels, yard games, and live music. Open Wednesday through Sunday every week from late spring to fall, it’s the perfect place to let the kids and dog frolic (or get away from the kids and dog) while you enjoy a cold beverage and immaculate Iowa sunset. Prost!

Des Moines Biergarten

The Neighborhood Highland Park

Many of Greater Des Moines’ historic neighborhoods — Valley Junction, East Village, Court District — earn accolades aplenty. But don’t underestimate the historic business district of Highland Park, a north-side jewel ripe for discovery.

Make your way to Euclid and Sixth Avenues, where old-school charm and modern flair merge, with legendary eateries cozied up to chic cocktail lounges. The to-do list is as long as it is delicious: a honey cinnamon latte at The Slow Down Coffee Co., a champagne cake doughnut at ChaCha’s Hiland Bakery, a smash burger at Lachele’s Fine Foods, and a cocktail at the new speakeasy, Highland Underground. That’s not to mention boutiques like Des Moines Mercantile and The Little Book sprinkled in between. In Highland Park, the appeal is sky high.

ChaCha’s Hiland Bakery

Des Moines Mercantile

The Attraction World Food Prize House of Laureates

Often called the “Nobel Prize for Food,” the World Food Prize celebrates the people changing the way the world eats. Step inside this beautifully restored Beaux-Arts building downtown — once the Des Moines library — and be wowed by a rotunda with a stained-glass skylight, grain sculptures, and murals tracing Nobel Peace Prize winner and native Iowan Norman Borlaug’s global impact. Peek into galleries filled with portraits, tapestries, and art honoring agricultural heroes, then stroll the peaceful garden with its fountain, statues, and world map. Every corner tells a story, making your next farm-to-table meal feel part of something bigger.

World Food Prize House of Laureates Cooper’s Central Table & Cocktails

T he City Norwalk

Just south of Des Moines, Norwalk is where small-town charm meets big-time flavor — and where a young Jason Momoa once roamed before conquering Hollywood. Grab dinner and craft cocktails at Cooper’s Central Table & Cocktails or sink your teeth into a legendary hot beef at Winn’s Pizza & Steakhouse (a back-to-back Best New Food winner at the Iowa State Fair). Catch the action at the Gregg Young Sports Campus or tee off at The Legacy Golf Club. From cocktails to cornfields (and a tasty farmers market), Norwalk makes a splash — and we’re not just saying that because Aquaman grew up here.

The Shop Rumors

Rumors isn’t your average thrift shop. It’s a hip, curated vintage haven in the heart of Des Moines. Owner Allison Lyons hand-picks over 800 pieces of stylish, wearable vintage spanning the early 1900s to the 1990s, with an emphasis on natural fibers and timeless Americana. The shop also houses a case of vintage film cameras for beginners and collectors alike and shares its laid-back, boutique-like space with Rogue Planet Music, a vinyl and hi-fi audio store.

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Norwalk’s Farmers Market

VISITORS GUIDE 2026 Rumors

BU Z Z

CALENDAR Cinch World’s Toughest Rodeo January 9 — 10 Casey’s Center 2026 Chow’s Winter Classic January 10 — 11 Iowa Events Center Iowa Pork Congress January 21 — 22 Iowa Events Center

FEBRUARY Iowa Ag Expo February 3 — 5 Iowa Events Center Des Moines Home + Garden Show February 12 — 15 Iowa Events Center Harlem Globetrotters February 12 Casey’s Center

Downtown Farmers’ Market

Boys State Wrestling Tournament February 18 — 21 Casey’s Center Iowa AAU Kids State Folkstyle Wrestling Championships February 28 — March 1 Casey’s Center

P HOTO S BY K AT HRY N GA MB L E

The Salt Company Conference January 2 — 4 Iowa Events Center

Iowa Beef Expo February 13 — 22 Iowa State Fairgrounds

MARCH Girls State Basketball Tournament March 2 — 7 Casey’s Center Iowa Deer Classic March 6 — 8 Iowa Events Center Varsity Spirit ­— Spirit Sports Cheer Competition March 7 — 8 Iowa Events Center Boys State Basketball Tournament March 9 — 13 Casey’s Center

Girls State Basketball Tournament

2026 USA Wrestling 16U & Junior Folkstyle National Championship March 12 — 15 MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex

Drake Road Races April 18 Drake University

USA Volleyball ­— Iowa Regional Championships March 14 — 15 MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival March 21 Iowa State Fairgrounds USA Volleyball ­— Iowa Regional Championships March 28 — 29 MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex, Prairie Trail Sports Complex

APRIL Iowa State 8 & 9 Ball Championships April 8 — 12 EMC Expo Center USA Volleyball — Iowa Regional Championships April 11 — 12 MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex, Prairie Trail Sports Complex

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Drake Relays America’s Athletic Classic April 22 — 25 Drake Stadium

MAY Valley Junction Farmers Market Thursdays, May — September Historic Valley Junction

World Food & Music Festival

Downtown Farmers’ Market Saturdays, May — October Historic Court District Midwest JVA Challenge May 2 — 3 Iowa Events Center, MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex Iowa High School Co-Ed State Track Meet May 21 — 23 Drake Stadium CelebrAsian May 22 — 23 Western Gateway Park

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

IMT Des Moines Marathon Des Moines Con May 29 — 31 Iowa Events Center EMC DAM to DSM May 30 Saylorville Dam, Cowles Commons

P H OTO BY A R C HI T R UJ IL LO

JANUARY

PHOTO BY GA BY D E I M E KE

JULY Junction Street Party July 3 Historic Valley Junction Yankee Doodle Pops July 3

West Capitol Terrace

Hinterland Music Festival

World Food & Music Festival August 28 – 30 Western Gateway Park

Go for Gold

SEPTEMBER GalaxyCon September 11 — 13 Iowa Events Center

Goodguys Heartland Nationals Des Moines July 3 — 5 Streetstyle Open Iowa State Fairgrounds September 17 — 19 JUNE Lauridsen Skatepark Delta Waterfowl Iowa High School Boys Duck Hunters Expo Des Moines Annual State Soccer July 24 — 26 Oktoberfest Celebration June 2 — 6 Iowa Events Centere September 25 — 26 Mediacom Stadium The District at Prairie Trail AAU Junior World Pork Expo Olympic Games Iowa’s Latino June 3 — 4 July 29 — August 8 Heritage Festival Iowa State Fairgrounds Greater Des Moines September 26 — 27 Greek Food Fair Western Gateway Park Hinterland Music Festival June 5 — 7 July 30 — August 2 Greek Orthodox Church OCTOBER Avenue of the Saints of St. George Amphitheater and USA Wrestling Event Center Iowa Craft Brew Festival Brian Keck Memorial June 6 Preseason Nationals National Balloon Classic Water Works Park October 22 — 25 July 31 — August 8 MidAmerican Energy Memorial Balloon Field Principal Charity Classic Company RecPlex June 10 — 14 Wakonda Club AUGUST IMT Des Moines Marathon Region II Presidents Cup June 10 — 14 Hy-Vee Multiplex Powered by the City of Grimes Capital City PrideFest June 12 — 14 Historic East Village

Discmania Challenge August 7 — 9 Pickard Park Des Moines Restaurant Week August 7 — 16 Greater Des Moines

Iowa Juneteenth NASCAR Cup Series Observance August 8 — 9 June 19 Iowa Speedway Greater Des Moines Iowa State Fair Des Moines Arts Festival August 13 — 23 June 26 — 28 Iowa State Fairgrounds Western Gateway Park

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

The AAU Junior Olympic Games return to Greater Des Moines July 29 — August 8, bringing around 15,000 athletes to the region. This will be the eighth time the metro has hosted the country’s largest multisport youth event. From track and field at Drake Stadium to swimming at Wellmark YMCA and gymnastics at MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex, the action takes over the community for 10 unforgettable days.

It’s the ultimate showcase of young talent, and Des Moines once again proves it’s built for the big stage.

October 18 Downtown Des Moines

NOVEMBER Festival of Trees & Lights November 25, 27 — 29 Iowa Events Center Des Moines Turkey Trot November 26 Downtown Des Moines

DECEMBER Iowa Dance & Drill Team Association State Team Competition December 4 — 6 Iowa Events Center

Iowa State Fair

SCAN FOR MORE GOOD STUFF! C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

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★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ VISITORS GUIDE 2026

P H OTOS C OU RTE SY O F A AU

P HOTO BY K AT H RYN GA M B L E

Christkindlmarket Des Moines December 3 — 6, 10 — 13 Principal Park

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

EXPLORE WHERE EVERY MOMENT COUNTS

Living History Farms

AG R I TA I N M E N T | A L L-AC C E S S J O R DA N C R E E K | E X P LO R E E V E RY C O R N E R C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

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EXPLORE writer KARLA WALSH Photographers KATHRYN GAMBLE & ZACH VAN DORN

THE

NEW CROP

Explore the past, present, and future of Iowa agriculture at these fresh local favorites.

F

arm-to-table restaurants are one of the biggest dining trends of the current millennium. But here in Iowa, this philosophy has been planted into our foundation for centuries. In fact, soon after Iowa was established as a state in 1846, word got out that land was plenty. By the 1850s, folks had flocked from around the globe to transform prairies into fields, which have been feeding families ever since. (Plus, the Ioway, Dakota, Meskwaki, Sauk, Winnebago, and Potawatomi Native American tribes had been tapping into Iowa’s fertile soil for generations before that.)

Although bustling cities with more than 100,000 residents have developed since those early times (we’re looking at you Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport), the vast majority of the state is still green. More than 85% of Iowa’s land is farmed, which means it’s easy for locals and visitors alike to celebrate nostalgic staples, Instagrammable flower farms, and sustainable agrihoods that are leading us into the future with their regenerative practices.

Read on to discover the best places to plan a field trip to freshen up your day and your diet.

Arie Den Boer Arboretum

OLD ROOTS, NEW VIBES Kick off spring in breathtaking style at Arie Den Boer Arboretum inside Water Works Park. In late April and early May, 800 flowering crabapple trees hit full bloom, making the grounds home to one of the world’s largest collections of these photogenic plants. If you’re up for a short road trip from the capital city, Iowa Arboretum & Gardens in Madrid is full of trails, wildlife, and tree houses that will keep the family entertained for hours. Featuring more than 300 vendors and drawing crowds around 25,000 each week, the 50-years-strong

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Downtown Farmers’ Market in Des Moines is a can’t-miss event if you’re in town on a Saturday between May and October. Who needs a table when you can savor a slice of farm-fresh peach pie while wandering through city blocks of stands offering buttery baked goods, savory breakfast burritos, just-picked produce, creative condiments, and more? Speaking of May through October agri-adventures, good, old-fashioned fun also awaits at Living History Farms, a 500-acre open-air museum in Urbandale.

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Downtown Farmers’ Market

Downtown Farmers’ Market

Iowa State Fair

World Food Prize Hall of Laureates

Hop aboard a tractor cart to get a lay of the land, then stroll through a recreated 1876 town and three historical farms that chronicle Iowa’s 300-plus years of farming history. Along the way, chat with historic interpreters who can tell you more about each era — from our state’s founding to the future.

If you happen to be around Des Moines in mid-August, the Iowa State Fair — launched way back in 1854 — is a must. After you witness the butter cow, check out farm animal exhibits, take a ride on the Ferris wheel, celebrate the victors of baking and produce contests, and savor a pork chop on a stick and bucket of cookies, you’ll quickly realize why the 11-day event breaks attendance records nearly every year.

The World Food Prize is changing what’s on plates worldwide with its mission to inspire sustainable ways to boost the quality, quantity, and availability of food. Year-round, you can visit the HQ — officially, the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates — in the heart of downtown Des Moines. Public tours of the historic building (including its art gallery, educational mural room, and breathtaking quote-lined rotunda) are available every Tuesday.

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Living History Farms

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

PH OTO COURTESY OF MIDDLEBROOK AG RIH OOD

EXPLORE

THE MODERN MOVEMENT

A handful of Iowa icons are ushering the state forward, offering a taste of the past and a peek into the future. Case in point: Cumming’s Middlebrook Agrihood, a community built Middlebrook Agrihood around preserving farm and garden land in an effort to promote the health, nutrition, education, and play opportunities of residents and visitors. The two-acre town garden offers eggs and organic produce all growing season. Every Friday during the summer, swing by between 4:30 — 7:30 p.m. for live music, food trucks, and a drink from the wine wagon.

Just down the road, you’ll find a pick-your-own farm that just happens to sling some of the best sourdough pizza in Iowa.

Wilson’s Orchard & Farm overflows with flowers, fresh produce, and cider options so you can customize your own flight. A Middlebrook/Wilson’s Orchard combo is a local pro move. (See “Make Hay While the Sun Shines,” opposite, for details about what you can pick when.)

Wilson’s Orchard & Farm

Fresh flowers, “Iowa Nice” vibes, and a wide variety of stressrelieving and skill-boosting classes are available a short drive away at the ultra-charming Rose Farm in Norwalk. Book ahead to get the hang of floral arranging, candle making, or pie baking. Or you may luck into one of the five-course farm-to-table feasts that often sell out. They’re as beautiful as they are delicious.

FARM TO FORK During harvest season, farm-to-table pop-ups abound at local farms. However, savvy chefs across the state are incorporating local produce on their menus all year long. Hugo’s Wood-Fired Kitchen near Drake University in Des Moines, for example, takes advantage of a prolific hydroponic garden in the basement of the building it shares with the prep kitchen for central Iowa’s Meals on Wheels program. The garden supplies vibrant leafy greens for both.

Less than two miles away at Oak Park, chefs, bakers, and mixologists tend to the on-site garden and prairie during breaks — and harvest from it to inspire and upgrade their innovative dishes and drinks.

The Wallace Centers of Iowa, with outposts in Orient and Des Moines, hosts pizza nights, Victorian teas, history lunches,

Rose Farm

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MAKE HAY WHILE THE SUN SHINES

and themed dinners. All feature fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs grown in their Orient fields or by nearby farmers.

The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s on-site restaurant, Flora, and its sister bistro, HoQ, are renowned for sourcing produce from local farmers.

The cheese on the salads, the beef in the burgers, and the mushrooms in the Mediterranean bowl are among the fresh Iowa ingredients.

In our neck of the woods, we have three seasons of splendid farm fare — followed by one to reset, recharge … and celebrate the fact that technology has advanced enough to make greenhouses possible. If you’re in town during spring, summer, or fall, options abound to see the seeds take root and to even pick your own at local orchards and farms.

And to bring us full circle, if you do happen to visit the Downtown Farmers’ Market, keep an eye out for Harbinger chef Joe Tripp and his wagon. He’s there many weeks of the year scoring produce to feature on his East-meetsMidwest menu. Try the Chef’s Tasting menu to try it all.

Mark your calendars for when the following flowers and foods are in season and available to pick fresh from the fields, according to our friends at Wilson’s Orchard & Farm and Center Grove Orchard:

April and May

P HOTO BY B I L LY D OHRMANN

PHOTO BY JAR E D DOB E S H

All of these local treasures stack up to showcase the down-to-earth authenticity that makes Iowa one of the best places to visit or call home. In Iowa, farm-to-table is more than a tagline. It’s a tradition. And we’re proud to welcome you to watch it continue to grow.

Tulips

June Raspberries and strawberries July Wildflowers, raspberries, strawberries, cherries, blueberries, and apples August Wildflowers, sunflowers, zinnias, apples, and peaches September Wildflowers, sunflowers, zinnias, apples, and pumpkins

Oak Park garden

Oak Park

October Wildflowers, apples, and pumpkins

ABOUT THE WRITER

Flora

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Karla Walsh is a Des Moines-based freelance lifestyle writer who counts down to fresh tomato season each year. As of press time, there’s a good chance she’s at least 40% panzanella.

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

EXPLORE writer MEGAN BANNISTER Photographer KATHRYN GAMBLE

West Side Story Every chapter of fun unfolds at Jordan Creek in West Des Moines, where shopping sprees and golf tees set the scene.

Topgolf

wh il e i t m ay se e m like downtown Des Moines has all the action, there are plenty of reasons to venture west. With adventurous amenities, ample accommodations, and epic eateries, this part of the metro — the western edge of West Des Moines, anchored by the sprawling Jordan Creek Town Center — is a bustling destination for families, couples, and a friends weekend getaway. Whether you’re seeking a staycation or visiting from out of town, this part of West Des Moines is full of opportunities to indulge in a little retail therapy, treat yourself, and play like you’re a kid again.

KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot

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Jordan Creek Town Center

All photos, this page

Shop Hop

on e th in g is f or s ure : There’s no shortage of spots to shop in the Jordan Creek area. With burgeoning boutiques and well-known national chains, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for (and then some) at this retail mecca.

Start your shopping excursion at Jordan Creek Town Center, Iowa’s biggest and best shopping destination with two floors and more than 100 national retailers. This isn’t a sleepy remnant of a bygone shopping era; it’s a lively and modern gathering place that rocks as hard as premium malls did before the internet age. Whether you’re in the market to update your wardrobe, outfit your home, or upgrade your technology, this mall has a selection you won’t find anywhere else in the state.

Find your personal style at popular stores like Anthropologie, H&M, Madewell, and Urban Outfitters. Or shop for some new specs at the brick-and-mortar location for eyewear brand Warby Parker. Find accessories, equipment, apparel, and everything you need for an active lifestyle at stores like Scheels and Lululemon. Don’t forget to add a little fun to your spree with a stop at the Lego Store or by checking out the latest gadgets at the Apple Store.

A trip to Jordan Creek Town Center is all about treating yourself.

Maintain your shopping stamina with bonbons and gelato from Chocolaterie Stam, a local favorite since setting up shop in 1997.

And if you go to a mall without stopping at Auntie Anne’s, were you really even there? If you haven’t gotten enough steps in, hit up the pond outside the mall and snap a selfie with your haul.

The area’s sensational shopping doesn’t stop there. With big box retailers like Costco, Target, and Walmart and sporting goods favorites like Dick’s Sporting Goods and REI, there are plenty of places to explore outside of the mall complex. Before you go, don’t forget to stock up on must-have snacks at Trader Joe’s.

Almond Butter Almonds and Unexpected Cheddar for the win.

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Putts & Pins

Smash Park

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Game On

th e f un d oe s n ’t s top when you set down your shopping bags. The Jordan Creek area is full of spots to keep the good times rolling with games for players of all ages and energy levels. With both indoor and outdoor attractions, you’ll find plenty of places to play, no matter the season.

Putts & Pins

Get the swing of pickleball or test your axe throwing accuracy at Smash Park. Here, bigger is better. This pickleball paradise boasts Iowa’s largest patio (named one of our Des Best, of course) and is also the home of Big Blue, the world’s largest pickleball paddle. If hitting the links is more your speed, head to Topgolf where 70 all-weather driving range bays await for you to take aim at an awesome afternoon. If you’re less focused on improving your swing, Topgolf has a full restaurant and bar (hello injectable doughnut holes!), plus ample patio seating.

Now that you’re on a roll, it’s time to hit the arcade (and enjoy the AC) with a family-friendly competition at Dave & Buster’s. Classics are paired with arcade innovation for an experience that’s sure to level up your weekend. Or head to Putts & Pins to try your hand at duckpin bowling, which is like if Skee-Ball and bowling had a baby.

Trying to get out of a date night rut? Test your puzzle-solving skills with an interactive escape room at Spare Time. There is no wrong answer for fun (but you need the right answer to get out of that escape room first and make it to dinner).

Dig In

it’s n o s e c re t that the Des Moines metro is home to culinary hot spots, and the Jordan Creek area is no exception. No matter your mood or the time of day, you’re sure to find a menu to match in this part of the metro.

Start your day with coffee at Barista’s Bouquet, a combination coffee bar and floral shop that brims with bright blooms. Or opt

Topgolf

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Prime & Providence

MEGAN’S LOCAL HACKS AND FAVES Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, these are my tried and true tips for making the most of your time out west: PARK SMART | Skip the crowds and park near the Von Maur or Scheels entrance to easily enter the mall.

for a sweeter start at Mahalo’s Coffee & Mini Donuts, which serves more than a dozen flavors of mini doughnuts in addition to a full menu of coffee drinks and other beverages.

If you’re in the mood for a more substantial breakfast, restaurants like The Breakfast Club and HomeGrown serve heartier fare (breakfast corn dogs and espresso martinis, anyone?) to help you fuel up for a busy day.

TREAT YOURSELF | I’ve never met a dessert I didn’t like, but sometimes cravings strike at inopportune times.

Thankfully, Hurts Donut Co. in nearby West Glen Town Center is open 24 hours, which means I can indulge in a brownie doughnut no matter the hour.

KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot

FIND REEL DEALS | If you’re headed to the Cinemark Century Jordan Creek 20 and XD, my favorite day to catch a flick is on Discount Tuesdays.

RAISE THE STEAKS | While it may be a local name, Prime & Providence is one of only four restaurants in the country to serve specialty Nakimi beef from Japan. The Sunday Dinner for Two special is a great value, offering a salad, choice cut, two sides, and dessert to share for just $99.

When it comes to restaurants, Midwest classics shine in this part of the metro.

Celebrate a special occasion at local spots like Prime & Providence (the Japanese beef flight is pure decadence) or Irina’s Steak & Seafood or snag a reservation at national expense card favorites like Ruth’s Chris Steak House.

Looking for something fun and family friendly? Giordano’s is a staple for a reason, slinging deep-dish Chicago pies with truly legendary cheese pulls.

BEYOND JORDAN CREEK

No passport? No problem. You can enjoy all sorts of international flavors without leaving the 515 area code. Every bite is bursting with flavor at Persis Biryani Indian Grill, and you’ll find all sorts of creative Japanese cuisine at Hana Ramen Sushi. Yes, we have good sushi in Iowa! And don’t miss one of the newest dining gems — KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot, where you get to play chef. Grill marinated meats right at your table or simmer your picks in a bubbling hot pot, with nearly 100 fresh ingredients and sauces to mix and match. It’s a hands-on, social dining experience that’s as fun as it is flavorful.

Jordan Creek may be the region’s retail powerhouse, but shopping adventures don’t stop there. Cool neighborhoods and can’t-miss districts across the metro are filled with finds worth bagging up: • Outlets of Des Moines (Altoona) • The District at Prairie Trail (Ankeny)

If it feels wrong to turn in for the night without a sweet treat, fear not. Local gem Home Sweet Cone scoops up more than 60 flavors of homemade ice cream just east of the mall.

• Historic East Village (Des Moines) • The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand (Des Moines) • Historic Valley Junction (West Des Moines)

ABOUT THE WRITER Megan Bannister is a Des Moines transplant who loves classic Midwestern dining (hello, supper club vibes) and wholeheartedly subscribes to “little treat culture.”

• West Glen Town Center (West Des Moines)

WATCH OUR DES BEST OF JORDAN CREEK VIDEO!

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And beyond the big names, our many main streets and town squares are packed with hidden gems worth a leisurely stroll.

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EXPLORE

R O T E M E H T MEET

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Think of Greater Des Moines as a postcard come to life, with each suburb sending its own colorful snapshot full of charm, character, and surprises.

Meet these vibrant communities that are excited to welcome you to lively town squares, scenic trails, and plenty of local flavor beyond

the city limits.

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EXPLORE

ALTOONA Central Iowa’s entertainment capital delivers thrills at Adventureland Park, slots at Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Casino, and Hotel, and deals at the Outlets of Des Moines, all within a roller coaster’s ride of each other.

ANKENY BONDURANT Grab a pint at Reclaimed Rails Brewing Company or Founders Irish Pub. Also on tap: awardwinning tenderloins at Brick Street Café, yummy mini pies at Home Slice Handmade Pies, and shopping discoveries at Little House on Main. Big flavor meets hometown vibes.

Ankeny serves up the best of old and new. Savor the charm-filled streets and underrated farmers market of historic Uptown Ankeny or opt for the modern buzz of The District at Prairie Trail, with its shops, restaurants, movie theater, bowling alley, and selfie-worthy plaza.

CLIVE Trail time meets quirky charm on the Clive Greenbelt.

This 11-mile stretch follows Walnut Creek past parks, sculptures from the annual Art Along the Trail exhibit, and the city’s most famous maintenance crew, the Greenbelt Goats, who munch their way through the greenery and into locals’ hearts.

GRIMES As one of the metro’s fastest-growing cities, Grimes is built for action.

Tackle tournaments at the expansive new Hy-Vee Multiplex Powered by the City of Grimes or test your strength at Climb Iowa, one of the state’s top indoor climbing gyms.

DES MOINES Catch a ballgame at Principal Park, wander underneath the Iowa State Capitol’s golden dome, meet a red panda at Blank Park Zoo, or see Olympic-level tricks at Lauridsen Skatepark.

Browse local flavors at the Downtown Farmers’ Market, stroll through the iconic Pappajohn Sculpture Park, or explore lush indoor gardens and riverside views at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. And with big-name concerts and events at the Iowa Events Center, Des Moines is your urban playground.

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INDIANOLA Wine and float your way through Indianola, home to the annual National Balloon Classic every July and laid-back pours at Summerset Winery.

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NORWALK

JOHNSTON

The Gregg Young Sports Campus serves up fields, food, and fun — think championship games with a Mullets’ burger on the side. Don’t miss the Instagrammable Rose Farm and, just down the road in Cumming, Wilson’s Orchard & Farm, where country living gets a chic upgrade.

Whether you’re gliding across the synthetic ice at the Johnston Town Center or landing a duckpin strike (with a craft brew in hand) at Backpocket Pin & Pixel, Johnston knows how to chill and thrill.

PLEASANT HILL

POLK CITY

From snow tubing and skiing at Sleepy Hollow Sports Park in the winter (now open all year long with their SnowFlex) to teeing off at Copper Creek Golf Club in the summer, Pleasant Hill has yearround ways to play, plus scenic views and plenty of postgame patio spots nearby.

Tee up at the Tournament Club of Iowa or escape to the natural serenity of nearby Jester Park. This lakeside gem is where golf meets the great outdoors. Just minutes from Saylorville Lake (hello, beaches and boat rentals) and home to an idyllic town square, Polk City is an easy escape.

URBANDALE Time travel made easy. At Living History Farms, you’ll walk through 300 years of Iowa history, complete with working farms, costumed interpreters, and hands-on demos. Then grab a meal next door at the Machine Shed, where the farm-to-fork spirit lives on in comfort-food classics.

WEST DES MOINES Known as Iowa’s shopping capital, West Des Moines is home to both the boutiques at Historic Valley Junction and the big brands at Jordan Creek Town Center. More than just a mall, it’s a launchpad for fun. Add in Smash Park, Topgolf, the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex, and the water trails at Raccoon River for a full weekend of shopping, golfing, and paddling.

WINDSOR HEIGHTS Tucked between city hot spots, Windsor Heights is your global flavor hub. Bite into authentic sandwiches at Paris Banh Mi or savor Himalayan spices at Kathmandu Restaurant. Head further down University Avenue and you’ll find Drake University, perfect for mixing culture and campus vibes.

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HAVE FUN AT THESE LOCALLY OWNED FAVORITES! Over 250 Craft Beers 200 SW 2nd Street 515-284-1970

British Pub 210 4th Street 515-282-2012

Cajun & Creole Favorites 615 3rd Street 515-244-2899

A Not So Secret Speakeasy 215 East 3rd Street 515-243-0827

Historical Downtown Social Hub 223 4th Street 515-284-1905

Your Neighborhood Bar & Grill 3506 University Avenue 515-255-0433

German Bier Hall 101 4th Street 515-288-2520

Neighborhood Burgers & Beer 2331 University Avenue 515-344-4343

Classic Roadhouse Joint 4221 SE Orilla Road, WDM 515-410-2520

All Iowa Beer, One Amazing Place!

215 East 3rd Street 515-243-0827

Tikis and Asian Pizzas 317 East Court Avenue 515-323-3333

60’s Corner Tavern 200 SW 2nd Street 515-280-1965

Midwest Sports Headquarters 400 SE 6th Street 515-214-2759

LET US HOST YOUR EVENT!

Plan your next holiday party, corporate luncheon, wedding, rehearsal dinner, or other event in our Marquette and Joliet rooms.

Visit: www.iowataproomevents.com Email: events@iowataproom.com 215 East 3rd Street #100, Des Moines, IA 50309

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THE JOLIET ROOM

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TA S T E LOCAL FLAVORS WORTH CHASING

Lachele’s Fine Foods

S I P S C E N E S | D E L I D E L I G H T S | L E G E N DA R Y B I T E S C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

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TA S T E

writer MADISON STANO Photographer KATHRYN GAMBLE

m o r F s r e e Ch ! s e n i o M s e D Our roving sips specialist leads a choose-your-own beverage adventure that includes lattes, lagers, and lavender mocktails.

Visiting Des Moines and wondering where to grab a drink? Our s’s may be silent, but our drinks scene speaks volumes. For me, the right sip — whether it’s a cozy latte, a patio pint, or a perfectly mixed cocktail — always sets the tone for the trip and gives a true taste of the city’s vibe. From sunrise to last call, Greater Des Moines pours personality into every cup, glass, and tumbler. Let’s tap into the best drinks in town and the tastemakers behind them.

Get Your Caffeine Fix, One Cup at a Time Des Moines is brimming with noteworthy coffee shops. Across the metro, you’ll find hot and cold brews with distinctive twists.

Rise and shine — let’s go find your morning (or afternoon) cup of joe.

Start downtown at Hobnob Coffee and Wine Bar, tucked off the lobby of Hotel Fort Des Moines. With bay windows and a cozy ambience, it’s a Gatsby-worthy setting.

Another standout is Horizon Line Coffee, focused on sustainability and known for its signature glass jars and house-made syrups.

The Contrary

For those wanting to slow things down a bit, The Slow Down Coffee Co. lives up to its name with its casual setting and soft vibes. I never skip the vegan OCPs (oatmeal cream pies) from Thistle’s Summit if they’re in stock.

Looking for bold, spiced flavor? Mayalu Coffee channels Nepalese traditions with ingredients like cardamom and saffron.

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Horizon Line Coffee

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Though not a café, BLK & Bold coffee is a local treasure — ethically sourced, socially conscious, and available at many metro retailers. The company donates 5% of its profits to youth-focused nonprofits. In nearby Grimes, Lightbrite Coffee Roasters brightens the day with small-batch beans, a cozy vibe, and fun favorites like the Spicy Mayan (house-made chocolate and espresso) and Nightlite Latte (housemade lavender, vanilla, and espresso).

Can’t decide? Go for a coffee flight with an espresso, cortado, filter brew, and cold brew — all roasted on-site by husbandand-wife duo Matt and Megan McNeece.

Modern and sleek, Northern Vessel is a must-stop for visitors who love smooth brews. Hit up the shop on Keosauqua Way in Des Moines — or just follow the trail of cold brew cups to the green awning at the Downtown Farmers’ Market on Saturdays.

If you like your coffee with a side of gears and spokes, Chain & Spoke is the city’s only coffee cyclery (and a personal favorite of mine), serving espresso by day and beer by night. The natural, industrial space makes for the perfect coffee break.

Begin the Road to Zen With Tea With colorful boba teas and steaming cups of soothing loose leaf, you’ll find your perfect “matcha” in Des Moines.

In the Historic East Village, Gong Fu Tea is a haven for tea purists, with walls lined with premium loose-leaf blends from around the globe. If you’re after boba, Zenko Tea is a

Chain & Spoke Northern Vessel Lightbrite Coffee Roasters

Naughtea

local favorite, with five locations across the metro known for rich and creamy milk teas and sweet and colorful fruit teas.

Heading north? Check out Red Dragon Herbs & Tea in Polk City, a woman-owned shop crafting small-batch herbal blends that balance flavor and wellness. Nearby in Ankeny, Naughtea brings cheeky vibes to your sip session with milk teas, fruity juices, and Korean corn dogs (aka K-dogs) — half hot dog, half mozzarella cheese, all deliciousness. The Fruity Pebbles K-dog is kid-approved and Instagram-ready.

Horizon Line Coffee BRAD PENNA & NAM HO Owners & co-founders

Gong Fu Tea

What is your philosophy when it comes to crafting drinks?

Des Moines is a drink — what would it taste like?

We have two approaches: One, we work to showcase incredible coffees from the producers we work with by serving lovely single-origin espresso and black coffees and, two, showcasing creative coffee drinks with our seasonal menu and rotating one-off drinks that our team develops.

A great shot of espresso — it’s got sweetness and vibrant acidity.

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What’s your favorite drink spot in Greater Des Moines besides your own?

Bartender’s Handshake.

Their mocktails are so great.

TA S T E

Sip Into Something Juicy

Twist Soda Shop

Craving a midday pick-me-up with a fruity twist? Des Moines serves up vibrant, feelgood sips that hit just right.

In the heart of the Drake neighborhood, Lifestyle Juices crafts nutrient-packed wellness shots and fresh-pressed blends that fuel your day the tasty way. Ready to shake things up? Head to Twist Soda Shop in Bondurant, where you can sip on classic craft sodas or go wild creating your own fizzy masterpieces with fun syrups and creamy twists. On the move? Swing

by Hyper Energy Bar, a drive-through hot spot popping up all around the metro and serving customizable caffeinated concoctions, plus sugar-free and caffeinefree options to keep everyone refreshed.

Pour Your Own Afternoon Path, Pint by Pint If your perfect afternoon includes sunshine and something frosty in hand, Des Moines delivers. Our breweries pour personality

Barn Town Brewing

by the pint, whether you’re into hazy IPAs, crisp lagers, or sours with serious attitude.

Lua Brewing is where Des Moines’ brewers go to drink — prestigious, inventive, and beloved for its seasonal IPAs, fruity sours, and beautifully designed indoor-outdoor space with skyline views. The rotating food menu is just as buzzworthy. The Sherman Hill brewpub recently won USA Today’s Readers’ Choice for the best brewpub in the country, so they even have the hardware to back up the buzz.

Across the street, Big Grove Brewery brings the party with Easy Eddy IPAs, tasty taproom bites, and one of the biggest patios in town. Fun fact: It’s the largest restaurant in Iowa by square footage — so, yes, there’s room for your whole crew.

Lua Brewing

At SingleSpeed Brewing, bikes and brews go hand-in-handlebar, with fun seasonal taps and not one, but two patios for soaking up sunshine. Just down the road, Exile Brewing Company is a Des Moines

Lua Brewing WHITNEY SELIX Owner & co-founder

What is your philosophy when it comes to brewing beer?

Balance, balance, balance — strength, sweetness, acidity, and dilution. Just like cooking — you need salt, fat, heat, and acid.

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Exile Brewing Company

original — home to the iconic “Cheers From Des Moines” mural (selfie time!) and the Ruthie lager. Check out Exile during the holiday season when it turns into a Christmas pop-up called SnowGlobe — rooms wrapped in a million strands of holiday sparkle (but the same great beer).

Feeling adventurous? Barn Town Brewing in West Des Moines doesn’t just brew beer, it goes all in on bold. The creative sours run the gamut from peanut butter and jelly to rainbow sherbet. Come Iowa State Fair time, beers like Pickle Tickle,

What makes Lua unique?

Lua is built on the spirit and trust of our team.

Having trust allows us to focus on having fun together, and we laugh A LOT. Guests feel that energy the moment they walk in.

Someone walks in for the first time — what’s the one thing they have to order?

One of our Sonder saisons and some caviar!

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Cotton Candy Sour, and aptly named State Fair Lemonade are every bit as craveable as a sugar-dusted funnel cake. Over at Confluence Brewing Company, it’s all about the classics: Crisp, crowd-pleasing beers served on a patio that’s a little slice of heaven for cyclists and sunshine lovers.

Choose Your Twist and Stir Up the Night I can’t think of a better way to wrap up a day in Des Moines than with a craft cocktail, a sultry, low-lit vibe, and great company. And if you’re skipping the buzz, no worries. Most cocktail bars here serve expertly crafted mocktails that keep the good times flowing.

Start at Secret Admirer, an intimate indoor-outdoor hideaway where colorful chairs, a vibrant mural, and twinkling lights set the perfect scene. It’s the kind of patio that feels less like a bar and more

The Contrary

like your coolest friend’s secret backyard hideout. For a splash of the unexpected, head to Revival House, where Des Moines goes full-on tropical. Funky wallpaper, playful tiki glasses, and drinks that taste like they were flown in straight from the beach set the scene. Don’t forget to snag some mango crab rangoons to soak up the island spirits. Split the Holy Diver, a massive four-person cocktail that’s as bold as your night.

Hello, Marjorie is a beloved staple of the Des Moines cocktail scene — sleek, dimly lit, and buzzing with energy and bubbly drinks. Be sure to snap a pic under the iconic neon sign, “The Prettiest Girls in the World Live in Des Moines.” Not sure what to order? My favorite, and a fan favorite, is The Marjorie — it never misses. In the Historic East Village, The Contrary is the cool new kid on the block, blending sophisticated vibes with a DJ spinning smooth, vibey R&B. Relax in the sunken lounge area with plush couches while enjoying creative cocktails paired perfectly with amazing small bites.

The Bartender’s Handshake is one of my favorite cocktail spots and was recently named one of the best bars in America. It’s

the perfect blend of cozy retro charm and inventive drinks served in a warm, laid-back atmosphere including a killer retro patio.

For martini lovers, The Lift is a delightful contradiction: a dive bar with martini cred.

From dirty classics to sweet, inventive variations, it’s the perfect place to kick off a night or wind it down in style.

Hotel bars often get a reputation for being just a quick pit stop, but these two are a cut well above the rest. In Confidence, a true speakeasy tucked inside the historic Hotel Fort Des Moines, serves 1900s-inspired cocktails alongside a carefully curated wine list. When you’re ready for a grand finale, head up to The Republic on Grand atop the AC Hotel, where expertly crafted drinks and one of the city’s best rooftop views await.

ABOUT THE WRITER Madison Stano blends insider know-how with a love for storytelling, serving up the bold brew and standout sips that define Des Moines’ iconic drink scene.

Revival House

Secret Admirer

The Contrary BILLY WEATHERS Owner

How do you want people to feel when they walk into your bar?

What’s one detail about your space that you really love?

Like they’re arriving at a good friend’s house or catching up with someone that they haven’t seen in awhile. Feeling like home, but a sexy and swanky home.

The tile that lives under the bar top matches the back bar shelving, which complements the carpet in the lounge that matches well with the candleholders on each table.

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If The Contrary had a soundtrack, what would be on it?

A little jazz, a little R&B, a little funk, lots of hip-hop, and some soul music too!

TA STE writer BENJAMIN MCELROY Photographer KATHRYN GAMBLE

URE Graziano Brothers

In Des Moines, the delis serve tradition by the pound (with extra pickles on the side). talkin g d e li s an dw ic h e s is like talking quarterbacks.

There’s something unmeasurable, unknowable about the best ones. They’re made of time and place, thought and feeling, as much as the italicized components listed on the menu. Because of this, because I wouldn’t draft a quarterback based on arm strength alone, I hope you understand that I’m talking about more than brick and mortar, bread and meat when I’m talking about the delis that have been serving Des Moines for 30, 40, 100 years.

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B&B Grocery, Meat & Deli They’ll tell you the building could fall down in front of your eyes.

This is just a way to say B&B has been around awhile. But then again, the Kmart Blue Light in the corner, acquired in a trade for three since-digested cheeseburgers, is a reminder that few things last 100-some years. There’s never really a line here. The dudes behind the counter, a hive of daps and butcher paper, sorta pick customers out of the crowd. And there you are. The grand prize winner.

It was decided long before I arrived in Des Moines, and it will remain so long after I leave this earth, that Dad’s Killer Sandwich is the city’s best. The simple build of four killer meats and three killer cheeses was daydreamed into being by John A. Brooks, part of the second-generation Bs behind B&B, when his wife dragged him to the Des Moines Playhouse. I have to imagine the man — thought bubble above his head, drool around his mouth — must’ve looked like Homer Simpson mid “Mmm.” Or at least I know this is what the sandwich reduces me to.

One bite of just about anything from B&B will have you believing all types of things. They know this — lotto tickets can be purchased at the register. Luckily, thankfully, there’s a tip jar too. It’ll be labeled “Margarita Money” or, depending on the season, “Fuzzy Sock Fund.” My only real recommendation is to spare some scratch, square your karmic debt.

Manhattan Deli I promise the rebrand amounts to little more than a paint job. Granted, Manhattan Deli does take credit cards now, but it’s still there on Ingersoll Avenue, where it’s been since 1982, among the other odds and ends and dives. You’ll be reassured to see a sun-bleached photo of George Costanza’s seminude body on the wall and a lunch line of construction vests as bright as the stacks of yellow and orange cheeses behind the counter. The menu on the new website may have a handful of subheads, but I wouldn’t read a word. I would walk in and ask for the daily special. The Tuesday Special, with its muzzle blast of Parmesan cheese sauce, is a favorite among favorites. But again, doesn’t matter what day it is, you’ve gotta ask for the daily special. The details will be written on a little whiteboard should you need to doublecheck for food allergies.

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TA STE

Maccabee’s Kosher Deli The only kosher deli in Iowa is just behind actor and Hawaiiowan Jason Momoa’s favorite breakfast place and around the corner from the oldest municipal golf course this side of the Mississippi. Rabbi Yossi Jacobson and his bobblehead likeness have been here, under much larger signage for the Judaic Resource Center that shares the building, for more than 30 years.

A couple years ago, by the grace of TikTok, local news crews showed up and lines stretched out the door after Sarah Booz, a Des Moines transplant whose brisk talk and New York accent established her subject-matter expertise, posted a 57-second video about finding a faithful pastrami on rye more than 1,000 miles from Katz’s Delicatessen in NYC. I’d order what Sarah ordered. You’ll get a fist-high pile of pastrami, plus deli mustard and red onion, between slices of hand-rolled rye. It's not hot but it’s got a warmth that reaches deep. Best of all is the charming marbling on the bread. You’ll never look at toocute, store-bought swirls the same.

A Taste of Italy Let me put you on to a big honking diamond of a find. About halfway between downtown Des Moines and West Des Moines and a couple miles past Caitlin Clark’s old high school, A Taste of Italy in Clive is the kind of strip mall spot I dream of stumbling upon in other cities.

Todd, the owner, has been there every time I’ve been, and I assume, since the place opened in 1996. Although the Italian beef tends to sell out, I don’t want to recommend the Italian beef. Because then our time together would end here. Instead, I want to tell you: You can’t go wrong, as long as you order a side of pasta salad. Large won’t be large enough. You’ll down it before Todd brings out your sandwich, leaving the dewy oil in the bottom of the container to become a makeshift au jus for the last bites of your toasted roll. These bites will be even better than the ones before. The ones you’ll have already thanked me for putting you on to.

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Graziano Brothers About a third of America’s pork comes from one place: Iowa. I need you to know this. I need you to picture seven pigs for every one person. So then you’ll understand when I say Graziano’s Italian sausage — a passed-down recipe of pork and fat and fennel, and yes, a secret spice and that certain non so che — is a staple of Des Moinesian diets. The Graziano name seems to appear on as many menus as the name Caesar, but still visit the spot on the south side where Francesco and Luigi Graziano, brothers from the “toe” of Italy, opened a grocery store in 1912. Francesco’s granddaughter, Frances, is now the third generation to run the sausageand-then-some business from the same address.

Yeah, you’ll want the grinder. Graziano’s sausage is known for its color, a trademarkable orange, but mixed with their pizza sauce becomes deceptively ordinary.

You’ll get a hoagie packed to the seams, topped with fried peppers, then bundled in enough melted mozzarella to survive a round trip to Italy. I know in other parts of the country “grinder” can be more of a catchall.

Here, it can only mean one thing. This.

South Union Bread Café With “bread café” right there in the name, you can expect an embarrassment of loavely riches. Like Graziano’s sausage, South Union is the bread of many Des Moines menus. For their own menu, only available weekdays for the business-casual blur of blue button-ups and A-line skirts, almost all the sandwiches are served on focaccia. You should take the hint and get one of those. Just get it hot, so those slices of focaccia crunch and breathe like pizza crust kissed by the plumped-up lips of a “Love Island” bombshell, and you’ll be happy with your lunch hour. If you’re looking for loaves on loaves, South Union Bakery resides inside Gateway Market.

(It’s only a mile away.) Their baguettes are basically made to be taken down Fleur Drive for a picnic at Water Works Park, an urban park you may or may not have heard is nearly twice the size of the one in New York City.

ABOUT THE WRITER Benjamin McElroy is a soon-to-be award-winning deli correspondent, who, it turns out, unbeknownst to even himself, spent seven years researching this story.

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TA STE artist HALEIGH ANDERSON

Steak d eB

u rg o

NICKNAME “De Burgo” ACCOMPLISHMENTS A filet mignon cooked to perfection, smothered in either a rich garlic butter or herb-forward cream sauce, depending on where you go. Born in Des Moines’ Italian-American kitchens in the 1940s and still holding court. It’s pure Des Moines: full of flavor, cozy, and a little over the top.

SIGNATURE STAT Two sauces, endless debates. (Team Garlic Butter vs. Team Creamy Herb — choose wisely.)

Behold the best of the best — Iowa dishes so iconic, they’ve earned a permanent place in our culinary lineup of legends.

These aren’t just meals, they’re masterpieces, each one worthy of a gold frame and a spot on the wall. Every bite is a brushstroke of Midwest flavor and hometown pride.

Welcome to the DSM Food Hall of Fame.

CAREER HIGHLIGHT Became a hot topic with Chicago Cubs radio announcers, prompting fans to crave it mid-inning — and earning a special delivery on dry ice to the Wrigleyville broadcast booth. A home run in more ways than one.

HOME TURF Latin King, Simon’s, Christopher’s

NICKNAME “BPT” (Breaded Pork Tenderloin), “Pork Fritter”

ACCOMPLISHMENTS Born in the heartland, raised on every menu. This deep-fried masterpiece — named Iowa’s best sandwich by Food & Wine — starts with a pork loin pounded thin (or left thick and juicy, depending on your loyalties), breaded golden,

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Loose Meat Sandwich NICKNAME “Tavern Sandwich,” “Maid-Rite” ACCOMPLISHMENTS Humble in name, iconic in status. The loose meat sandwich is Iowa’s answer to the sloppy joe, minus the slop. Ground beef, seasoned and seared, served on a soft bun with pickles and mustard. No sauce, no fuss, just old-school flavor. Almost always flanked by its all-star sidekick: French fries and a clutch side of ranch.

SIGNATURE STAT The first Maid-Rite restaurant opened in 1926, making it one of Iowa’s longest-running culinary traditions.

CAREER HIGHLIGHT Made famous on the sitcom “Roseanne,” where it was the star of the family-run diner.

HOME TURF Maid-Rite, Paula’s Cafe, Kelly’s Little Nipper

NICKNAME “Elote,” “Corn on the Cob” ACCOMPLISHMENTS A buttery rite of passage each summer, often eaten while standing, smiling, and wiping your chin. Whether yellow, white, or the fan-favorite bicolor (aka Peaches and Cream), Iowa sweet corn is prized for its unbeatable flavor and tender bite. Grilled, boiled, or microwaved in the husk, it’s a backyard barbecue MVP and a roadside stand superstar, especially in late July and August when Grimes-grown ears reach peak perfection.

Steak D

e B u go r SIGNATURE STAT Iowa produces around 2.4 billion bushels of corn each

year, more than any other state and almost three times more than Mexico. Only 1% of that is sweet corn, which adds to its mythic summer status.

CAREER HIGHLIGHT An Iowa cornfield starred in “Field of Dreams.”

Sweet corn is still the real MVP of Iowa fields every summer.

HOME TURF Iowa State Fair, local farmers markets, roadside stands during July and August

and fried to crispy perfection. Often bigger than your plate and always bigger than your expectations, it’s Iowa’s unofficial state sandwich and a rite of passage for anyone eating their way through Des Moines. Best enjoyed with pickles, mustard, and a sense of Midwestern pride.

Corn dog — Iowa State Fair Ham balls — Iowa Taproom

SIGNATURE STAT Iowa ranks No. 1 in pork

Crab rangoon pizza — Fong’s Pizza

production, with more pigs than people. This sandwich is our trophy.

La Quercia Cured Meats — Cheese Bar

CAREER HIGHLIGHT Each year, fans crown the best of the best in the Iowa Pork Producers’ Breaded Pork Tenderloin Contest, making this sandwich the GOAT of Midwestern meals.

Taco pizza — Happy Joe’s Pizza Graziano sausage — Graziano Brothers Hot beef sandwich — High Life Lounge Scotcheroos — Molly’s Cupcakes

HOME TURF Brick Street Café, Smitty’s, Centro

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VISIBILITY EQUALS EDUCATION

ww.capitalcitypride.org

VISIBILITY EQUALS E D U C AT I O N visit our website to get involved, donate or attend one of our upcoming events WWW.CAPITALCITYPRIDE .ORG

Let’s make Iowa the best place to ride a bike.

The Iowa Bicycle Coalition is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring everyone has a safe, accessible, and enjoyable bike ride.

Join us by becoming a member

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VISIT YOUR GUIDE TO SEEING IT ALL

T H I N G S TO D O | LO C A L L I S T I N G S | M A P S C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

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VISIT

Adventureland Park

Brenton Skating Plaza

Des Moines Arts Festival

3200 Adventureland Drive, Altoona | (515) 266-2121 Adventureland Resort is the Home of Iowa’s Best Thrills.

Opening in 1974 and growing into a major Midwest destination including a theme park, water park, and the Adventureland Campground, Adventureland has entertained millions of guests during 50 years of fun.

520 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines | (515) 283-4233 Dedicated to providing a fun, recreational experience for all ages, Brenton Skating Plaza is the premier destination for outdoor events, and ice skating under the stars. From November to March, the venue offers ice skating in the open air, amid snowflakes, alongside sweeping views of the downtown Des Moines skyline.

Western Gateway Park, 15th & Locust Streets, Des Moines The international award-winning Des Moines Arts Festival® celebrates its 28th anniversary June 26 — 28, 2026. Located in downtown Des Moines’ Western Gateway Park, the Festival features visual arts, live music, performing arts, interactive arts activities, Interrobang Film Festival, and plenty of eclectic food and beverage booths providing guests with an arts and culture experience to remember!

adventurelandresort.com

BCycle

desmoines.bcycle.com

Greater Des Moines | (515) 318-7488 Street Collective’s nonprofit bike share program provides an easy and fun way to get around. With 30 stations and 200 bikes in Des Moines, West Des Moines, Clive, and Windsor Heights, it’s the perfect solution for short trips, errands, or just exploring local neighborhoods and trails.

Birthplace of John Wayne

johnwaynebirthplace.museum

205 S John Wayne Drive, Winterset | (515) 462-1044 Tour the modest four-room home where film legend John Wayne was born. Visit the museum featuring the largest diversified exhibit of John Wayne artifacts in existence. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Winter hours (December — February): 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

dmparks.org

Buzzard Billy’s

desmoinesartsfestival.org

buzzardbillys.com

Des Moines Buccaneers Hockey

Center Grove Orchard

MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex 6500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines | (515) 278-2827 The Des Moines Buccaneers are bringing their exciting brand of hockey to the state-of-the-art MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex. Since 1980, the Bucs have been a cornerstone of affordable family fun in Urbandale, developing top talent with players advancing to the NCAA and NHL. Now, you can expect the same thrilling action, ice-cold drinks, and unforgettable memories. Join us at the RecPlex and experience why it’s always a great time with the Bucs!

615 3rd Street, Des Moines | (515) 244-2899 Buzzard Billy’s is a must-stop in Des Moines for the best Cajun themed cuisine, southern classics, burgers, pasta, seafood, and weekend breakfast. With 100+ items, our menu is sure to please everyone in your group!

Buzzard Billy’s is the perfect spot to grab a cold beer and enjoy one of our signature appetizers or bring in the whole family. We have plenty of seating available to accommodate large groups.

centergroveorchard.com

bucshockey.com

32835 610th Avenue, Cambridge | (515) 383-4354 Come be part of the lively atmosphere of our beautiful central Iowa farm! Enjoy daily hayrides, a corn maze, Blank Park Zoo farm animals, pedal tractors, weekend festivals with live blankparkzoo.com entertainment, and so much more. Don’t forget our corn 7401 SW 9th Street, Des Moines | (515) 285-4722 pool, jumping pillow, rubber duck races, and apple sling Blank Park Zoo is “Iowa’s Wildest Adventure!” Experience shot. Pick your own apples and find your perfect pumpkin. the wonders of nature found in the tropical rainforests, Come hungry to enjoy all the tastes of the season!

Australian Outback, and Africa. The zoo offers educational Climb Iowa East Village classes, tours, and rental facilities.

Des Moines Menace Soccer Club

Board & Brush

Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show, The

climbiowa.com

Historic East Village, 150 E 4th Street,

boardandbrush.com/clive Des Moines | (515) 244-2565 12871 University Avenue, Suite 150, Clive | (515) 850-8201 At Board & Brush in Clive, we marry the joy of wine and paint with the timelessness of wooden signs. Great for a unique team-building event or holiday party, an unforgettable bachelorette party, birthday celebration, distinctive evening out with friends, date night, or to spruce up your porch. We are the place for you!

Take a vertical journey at Climb Iowa! Our friendly instructors, outstanding facilities, and inclusive community make climbing an accessible adventure for all. Explore two fantastic locations: East Village for a bouldering adventure close to the ground, and Grimes for an exceptional roped experience at great heights. Start your adventure today!

Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad & Museum

desmoinesartcenter.org

bsvrr.com

225 10th Street, Boone | (515) 432-4249 The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad & Museum is a division of the Iowa Railroad Historical Society, a nonprofit 501(c) (3) operating railroad museum located in Boone, Iowa.

We feature diesel, steam, and electric equipment, and an expansive museum. We offer train rides across the spectacular 156’ tall Bass Point Creek High Bridge and through the beautiful Des Moines River Valley, plus special events throughout the year.

Des Moines Art Center 4700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines | (515) 277-4405 The Des Moines Art Center, on its historic campus in Greenwood Park, is home to one of the strongest collections of 20th- and 21st-century art in the region. The collection is housed in three unique buildings designed by world renowned architects Eliel Saarinen, I. M. Pei, and Richard Meier. With the exception of special events, admission to the museum is free. The Des Moines Art Center boasts inspiring exhibitions, education programs, a museum gift shop, café, and in downtown Des Moines, the iconic John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park.

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menacesoccer.com

Valley Stadium, 4440 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines | (515) 226-9890 Des Moines Menace soccer games are a fun, familyfriendly outing that feature some of the best young soccer players from around the world. The team plays at Valley Stadium in West Des Moines, from May to August. Check out menacesoccer.com for details on schedules, unique promotions, and to purchase tickets.

dtctv.us/dtn-dmn

Historic East Village, Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown, 101 E Locust Street, Des Moines (866) 496-0535 The Dinner Detective is an interactive comedic true crime dinner theatre experience based on real cold cases. Feast on dinner, but beware...the killer is hiding and you may find yourself as a Prime Suspect. Our Detectives interrogate suspects and find clues as victims are revealed. Prizes are awarded to the Top Sleuth who solves the crime!

District at Prairie Trail, The thedistrctpt.com

1345 SW Park Square Drive, Ankeny | (515) 272-5143 The District is a vibrant destination with something for everyone to enjoy. Savor delicious dining, browse distinctive shops, and take in a variety of entertainment options. For those focused on wellness, The District also features salons, fitness centers, and other personal care services. Whether you’re planning a day of relaxation, recreation, or self-care, you’ll find plenty of ways to unwind. Join us for an event, explore new favorites, or simply spend quality time with friends and family.

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Des Moines Arts Festival

Downtown DSM USA

Historic East Village

Iowa Arboretum Treehouse Village

700 Locust Street, Suite 100, Des Moines | (515) 286-4950 Looking for fun, one-of-a-kind adventures and experiences?

Downtown Des Moines is the place where you can find it all. Savor memorable food, attend an event you’ll never forget, immerse yourself in art, cheer on a sports team and make memories with your favorite people. Visit downtownDSMUSA.com to learn more.

First — 7th blocks of E Grand Avenue & Walnut Streets, Des Moines Historic East Village is Des Moines’ most vibrant and diverse district, with more than 90 shops, restaurants, and entertainment destinations. West of the State Capitol in downtown Des Moines, the Historic East Village is minutes from the Iowa Events Center and Iowa State Fairgrounds.

Easily accessible via bike trails, DART, and automobile (Interstate 235, exit E 6th Street, south four blocks).

1875 Peach Avenue, Madrid | (515) 795-3216 Iowa Arboretum & Gardens, home of Treehouse Village, is a place where nature and play are elevated! Children of all ages and abilities learn, explore, and play outdoors in nature with their families. Experience beautifully landscaped gardens at one of Iowa’s oldest and largest public gardens.

Discover native plants and wildlife along trails that wind through native woodlands and prairies. Shop for unique garden décor at the Arboretum’s gift shop. Excellent spaces are available for meetings, weddings, and family events.

downtowndesmoines.com

Downtown Farmers’ Market desmoinesfarmersmarket.com

Historic Court District, Des Moines | (515) 286-4928 The Downtown Farmers’ Market is held Saturday mornings, May — ­ October in the Historic Court District in downtown Des Moines. The Market offers attractions and activities including shopping for fresh produce, eggs, meats, crafts, baked goods and more, meeting with family and friends, and live entertainment.

Fleur Cinema & Café, The fleurcinema.com

4545 Fleur Drive, Des Moines | (515) 287-4545 The Fleur Cinema and Café is a beloved arthouse movie theatre and is Des Moines’ premier venue for new releases in indie, foreign, and quality Hollywood cinema. The Fleur resurrects classics of the past with frequent repertory screenings and is also proud to screen local films and host Iowa-based film festivals.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden dmbotanicalgarden.com

909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines | (515) 323-6290 The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is more than a dome, it’s the connection point between plants, people, and the natural world. It’s a place where you can be who you are, do the things you love, and spend time with the people who matter most. A place where anyone can explore, create, connect, and find their true nature.

Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation

facebook.com/dsmpublicartfoundation

The Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation brings inspiring art beyond museum walls and into the streetscapes, parks, buildings, and infrastructures of our community. The Foundation collaborates with international artists and local entities to create a world-class art destination. Visit our interactive website and DSM Public Art app.

Heritage Carousel heritagecarousel.org

Union Park, 1801 Pennsylvania Avenue, Des Moines (515) 323-8200 Step back in time with a ride on this hand-carved, handpainted turn-of-the-century replica carousel! With 30 whimsical animals, two chariots, wheelchair accessibility, and music from an old-fashioned band organ, the Heritage Carousel offers classic fun for kids and kids at heart.

Located in Union Park — home to the iconic Rocket Slide, with adjacent splash pad and sprawling green spaces — the Carousel is one of Des Moines’ hidden gems. And the best part? Kids ride the Carousel for just 50 cents!

eastvillagedesmoines.com

Historic Valley Junction valleyjunction.com

100 — 500 blocks of 5th Street and surrounding side streets, West Des Moines | (515) 222-3642 Historic Valley Junction, the original downtown of what is now West Des Moines, is a charming, vibrant district that feels like a “small town in a big city.” You’ll find more than 140 locally owned businesses including fashion and home décor boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and specialty stores.

Homemakers

iowaarboretum.org/treehousevillage

Iowa Architectural Foundation iowaarchfoundation.org

400 Locust Street, Suite 100, Des Moines | (515) 244-1888 IAF offers architect-guided walking tours of downtown, second Fridays, May ­— October, $20, leaving from Capital Square, going in four directions. IAF also offers custom walking and motorcoach tours for groups. Choose from standard or modified routes based on location, a preferred architectural style or building type.

homemakers.com

Iowa Cubs

Hoyt Sherman Place

Principal Park, 1 Line Drive, Des Moines | (515) 243-6111 The Iowa Cubs compete in the West Division of the International League and have been the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs since 1981. The I-Cubs host 75 professional games and many other special events from late March through mid-September at Principal Park, their home stadium in downtown Des Moines. Visit iowacubs.com for details on how you can be part of all of the fun happening at the ballpark!

10215 Douglas Avenue, Urbandale | (515) 276-2772 Homemakers Furniture has been making your house a home since 1974. Whether you’re shopping in our expansive showroom or online, we have Iowa’s largest selection of furniture, mattresses, and accessories at the lowest prices, guaranteed. Find the perfect designs for every room in your home today — only at Homemakers!

hoytsherman.org

Historic Sherman Hill, 1501 Woodland Avenue, Des Moines | (515) 244-0507 Hoyt Sherman Place offers an intimate theater experience, a beautiful historic mansion, and a majestic art gallery. Ever since Hoyt Sherman completed his family home in 1877, the venue has been a vibrant cultural destination where people can connect with art, music, history, and one another. This unique space is also available for public, private, and corporate events.

Iowa Arboretum iowaarboretum.org

1875 Peach Avenue, Madrid | (515) 795-3216 Experience beautifully landscaped gardens at one of Iowa’s oldest and largest public gardens. Discover native plants and wildlife along trails that wind through native woodlands and prairies. Shop for unique garden décor at the Arboretum’s gift shop. Excellent spaces are available for meetings, weddings, and family events.

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iowacubs.com

Iowa Gold Star Military Museum goldstarmuseum.iowa.gov

Camp Dodge, 7105 NW 70th Avenue, Johnston (515) 252-4531 The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, Iowa’s premier veterans museum, displays artifacts and tells the story of Iowa veterans from the Mexican War of 1846 to present day. It also has a reference library on military subjects and Iowa veterans. This is the perfect venue for a two-hour outing.

Iowa State Capitol

legis.iowa.gov/resources/tourcapitol

1007 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines | (515) 281-5591 For more than a century, the golden dome of the Iowa State Capitol has been a symbol of Iowa government and politics. The dome, covered in 23-karat gold leaf, rises 275 feet above the Capitol grounds and was completed in 1886.

Free guided tours of the Iowa Capitol are available Monday through Saturday. Call for tour times. Self-guided tours and a gift shop are also available.

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

PH OTO BY SAM CH RISTIAN SON

PH OTO BY K ATH RYN GAMBLE

Blank Park Zoo

VISIT Iowa State Fair iowastatefair.org

Iowa State Fairgrounds, 3000 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines | (515) 262-3111 The internationally acclaimed Iowa State Fair is the largest event in Iowa and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country. Annually attracting over 1 million attendees over 11 days, there are many things to celebrate at the Iowa State Fair, August 13 — 26, 2026.

Iowa Wild

Outlets of Des Moines

iowawild.com

Casey’s Center at Iowa Events Center, 730 3rd Street, Des Moines | (515) 564-8700 Looking for a night out with friends or an activity for the whole family? The Iowa Wild has something for everyone.

As the AHL affiliate of the Minnesota Wild, the Iowa Wild showcase the next generation of NHL stars right here in Des Moines! For more information, visit iowawild.com.

Iowa Wolves IAWolves.com

Casey’s Center at Iowa Events Center, 730 3rd Street, Des Moines | (515) 564-8550 The Iowa Wolves, G League affiliate of the Minnesota Timberwolves, are one of 30 NBA G League teams affiliated with an NBA franchise. The Wolves play in one of the best home environments, Casey’s Center in downtown Des Moines, setting a franchise record in attendance during the 2023-24 season. Tickets are available at iawolves.com/tickets!

Ironside Axe Club ironsideaxeclub.com

2700 University Avenue, Suite 100, West Des Moines | (515) 630-0319 Ironside Axe Club is Iowa’s premier axe-throwing venue and event space. Alongside tournaments and casual play, Ironside hosts comedy shows, D&D campaigns, and more.

With multiple rentable spaces and a Viking-inspired atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for unforgettable entertainment, parties, and corporate gatherings.

Jethro’s BBQ All Stars jethrosdesmoines.com

721 3rd Street, Des Moines | (515) 279-3300 Jethro’s BBQ is a nationally recognized restaurant serving central Iowa since 2008. Featuring slow smoked meats, wings, & ribs along with scratch made sides in a sports bar atmosphere, Jethro’s offers something for everyone. With eight great Iowa locations each featuring specialty items that compliment the core BBQ menu, Jethro’s BBQ is a must when visiting Des Moines.

John & Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Ken’s - a not so secret speakeasy

Outlets of Des Moines

Historic East Village, 215 E 3rd Street, Suite 100, Des Moines | (515) 243-0827 Ken’s - a not so secret speakeasy is located in the basement of the Iowa Taproom. The speakeasy-style atmosphere features classic prohibition themed cocktails, appetizers, a full bar, craft beer, and wide whiskey selection! Ken’s is open Friday and Saturday evenings at 4 p.m. and is available for private rentals Sunday — Wednesday.

801 Bass Pro Drive, Altoona | (515) 380-7400 Outlets of Des Moines is an open-air shopping destination conveniently located at Interstate 80 and US-65 in Altoona. Shop and save up to 70% at your favorites including Coach Outlet, J.Crew Factory, Under Armour Factory House, kate spade new york, Polo Ralph Lauren, and more.

iowataproom.com/kens

Lauridsen Skatepark

Palms Theatres & IMAX, The fridleytheatres.com

dsmskatepark.com

901 2nd Avenue, Des Moines | (515) 323-5300 The Lauridsen Skatepark is the largest open park in the nation. Centrally located and next to the Des Moines River, the 88,000-square-feet attraction showcases Olympic caliber park and street courses featuring a promenade, flow bowl, amoeba pool, snake run, and a skateable art piece entitled WOW.

200 NE Westgate Drive, Waukee | (515) 630-2337 Come to The Palms Theatres & IMAX for the best movie-going experience in the metro! Enjoy a film in breathtaking IMAX, our large XLD, or get full service from your seat with our Dine & Recline! Each theatre is equipped with UltraLux Loungers that fully recline with optional heat settings.

Living History Farms

Paws & Pints

11121 Hickman Road, Urbandale | (515) 278-5286 Living History Farms is an interactive outdoor history museum where historic interpreters and hands-on activities present the many stories of Midwestern rural heritage.

Three working farms represent 1700, 1850, and 1900. The 1876 town of Walnut Hill demonstrates the relationship between farms and towns.

6218 Willowmere Drive, Des Moines | (515) 969-2275 Paws & Pints is a multi-faceted canine-related business equipped with indoor and outdoor dog parks, a full bar, coffee shop, and restaurant for you and your canine best friend. Paws & Pints has all your everyday canine needs handled too, including doggy daycare, lodging, grooming, and retail all under one woof!

lhf.org

Madison County Chamber of Commerce madisoncounty.com

73 Jefferson Street, Winterset | (515) 462-1185 Visit the inspiration behind, and setting of, the novel, film and musical, “The Bridges of Madison County.” Madison County boasts six of these remaining historic structures, making it the Covered Bridge Capital of Iowa. Grab a map to the covered bridges or schedule a personal guided tour through the Madison County Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center.

Mainframe Studios

desmoinesartcenter.org/visit/pappajohn-sculpture-park Western Gateway Park, 1330 Grand Avenue, Des Moines | (515) 277-4405 The Des Moines Art Center’s John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park is situated on 4.4 acres of lush greenspace in downtown Des Moines and features artwork by more than two dozen internationally acclaimed artists. The park welcomes visitors year-round from sunrise to midnight.

outletsofdesmoines.com

mainframestudios.org

900 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines | (515) 216-4253 Visit Mainframe Studios — a colorful downtown destination. Home to 220+ local artists, creatives, and nonprofits on five floors in 180 studio spaces. Open daily from 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. for anyone to see artists at work.

Experience a First Friday of the month public event when the building comes alive from 5 — 8 p.m. with food, music, and creativity.

pawsandpintsdsm.com

Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Casino, and Hotel prairiemeadows.com

1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona | (515) 967-1000 Come see why Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack, and Hotel is your favorite place to play. With more than 85,000 square feet of exciting casino action, the fun doesn’t stop there! Prairie Meadows also offers a wide variety of restaurants, live horse racing, weekly entertainment, and a luxury hotel. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Rail Explorers: Boone Division railexplorers.net

123 10th Street, Boone | (877) 833-8588 Rail Explorers have brought the first Railbike Experience to the Midwest. This 12.5-mile round trip will take you from open farmland to the Des Moines River. You’ll ride across the spectacular “Bass Point Creek High Trestle” which is 750’ long, 156’ high. All Explorers feature an electric motor which makes the journey truly effortless. Bookings are recommended.

Jordan Creek Town Center

Middlebrook Agrihood

Reiman Gardens

101 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 440-6255 Jordan Creek Town Center is a 200-acre retail, dining, entertainment, and recreation development. The project includes a two-level enclosed mall featuring 133 retailers including Von Maur, Dillard’s, Scheels, a Century 20 theater, and Residence Inn by Marriott.

4300 Cumming Avenue, Cumming | (515) 309-0705 Middlebrook Agrihood in Cumming is an expansive 800acre community that integrates agricultural heritage with contemporary living. Enjoy a range of walkable amenities including Wilson’s Orchard, Middlebrook Mercantile, a town garden, and events on the farm. Featuring scenic trails, an ag-themed park, and a work-live Main Street currently under development.

Iowa State University, 1407 University Boulevard, Ames (515) 294-2710 Named a “Top 10 Garden in North America Worth Traveling For” and a “Best Thing to do in Iowa with Kids.”

Reiman Gardens is a 17-acre botanical garden with a tropical conservatory, award-winning rose gardens, a children’s garden, an indoor Butterfly Wing, and Elwood, “The World’s Largest Concrete Gnome.”

jordancreektowncenter.com

middlebrookfarm.com

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reimangardens.com

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Middlebrook Agrihood

Science Center of Iowa

Rose Farm

Sleepy Hollow Sports Park, Inc.

Topgolf Des Moines

7197 43rd Avenue, Norwalk | (515) 988-7395 Rose Farm is a three-acre cut flower farm, boutique-sized celebration venue, and lifestyle education center where beauty blooms in every season. From vibrant fields of flowers to hands-on culinary, art, and floral workshops, we create experiences that allow you to take a sabbatical.

4051 Dean Avenue, Des Moines | (515) 262-4100 Drop into Sleepy Hollow for thrills — with or without the chills — on the world’s biggest all-weather downhill run.

Fly down the 600-foot, turf-surface slope in a cushy tube or on your favorite skis or snowboard. Here you get snow sport fun in the height of summer! Check SleepyHollowSportsPark.com for times and to buy tickets.

7680 Coachlight Drive, West Des Moines | (515) 336-6859 Topgolf Des Moines is the venue to host any occasion.

Whether it’s a birthday party, company outing, fundraiser, or just a get together with a few friends, Topgolf brings the fun! We are an all-weather venue with climate-controlled bays and over 10 golf-related games with no golf skill required. Topgolf is also a full bar and restaurant with excellent food and drinks to bring your experience to another level!

rosefarmstead.com

Salisbury House & Gardens salisburyhouse.org

4025 Tonawanda Drive, Des Moines | (515) 274-1777 Salisbury House was built in the 1920s by cosmetics magnate Carl Weeks and his wife Edith and continues to showcase the family’s extensive collection of art, furniture, and artifacts.

The historic estate is open year-round for museum tours and hosts a variety of public and private rental events.

Saylorville Lake Marina saylorvillelakemarina.com

6170 NW Polk City Drive, Polk City | (515) 984-6541 Discover Saylorville Lake Marina, your premier boating destination on the Des Moines River! Join a vibrant community of boaters and enjoy top amenities, including our waterfront restaurant and exciting activities. With amazing boat rentals, it’s easy to get on the water and create unforgettable memories.

Science Center of Iowa sciowa.org

401 W Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, Des Moines (515) 274-6868 The Science Center of Iowa sparks curiosity and inspires lifelong learning through hands-on exhibits and engaging programming. Located in downtown Des Moines, SCI offers interactive experiences for all ages, from live science demonstrations to a 50-foot planetarium. With rotating exhibits and events, every visit brings new opportunities for discovery and fun!

Seven Oaks Recreation sevenoaksrec.com

1086 22nd Drive, Boone | (515) 432-9457 Year-round outdoor FUN! During the winter months, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing with our powerful snowmaking system! FREE lessons, kids’ specials, group rates, night skiing, and equipment rentals. Full-service canoe, kayak, and river tube floats are available mid-June through mid-August. Have a blast with action-packed paintball from April — October. Experience the Gladiator Assault Challenge mud run every year in May.

Skate South skatesouth.com

10494 County Line Road, Des Moines | (515) 285-6037 Skate South is a locally owned business and has been since 1992. The Muse family has brought a“MUSE”ment to families for many years: skating, birthday parties, family celebrations, business teambuilding fun, and more. Our Skate South team looks forward to seeing you soon and helping you create a lifetime of memories with family and friends.

SleepyHollowSportsPark.com

Smash Park smashpark.com

6625 Coachlight Drive, West Des Moines | (515) 313-0700 Smash Park is an indoor/outdoor ‘eatertainment’ venue that connects people through endless fun. We offer pickleball courts, arcade games, axe throwing, weekly events, scratchdriven food, creative cocktails, and so much more! Smash Park is also home to Iowa’s largest patio and features over 80 TVs, including a 30-foot TV wall!

Spare Time

sparetimeentertainment.com/desmoines

340 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 414-2824 Spare Time Des Moines is your destination for family fun, epic events, or an unforgettable night out. This giant entertainment center features something for everyone, with state-of-the-art bowling lanes with effect lighting and plush couches, over 100 exciting arcade games, an epic laser tag arena, escape room puzzles, and a full restaurant and bar with a mouth-watering menu. You won’t find more games, lanes, food, and FUN under one roof!

State Historical Museum of Iowa history.iowa.gov

Historic East Village, 600 E Locust Street, Des Moines | (515) 281-5111 With three floors showcasing Iowa’s accomplishments, contributions, and heritage across our 99 counties, experience our state’s rich history through exhibits and artifacts. Now featuring Hollywood in the Heartland, a blockbuster exhibit celebrating Iowa’s movie legacy, and the First in the Nation exhibit that explores presidential candidates’ journeys through the Iowa caucuses and beyond.

Terrace Hill

terracehill.iowa.gov

2300 Grand Avenue, Des Moines | (515) 281-7205 Terrace Hill is the official residence of the Iowa Governor and a registered National Historic Landmark. Guided tours are available Tuesdays — Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. and noon by reservation during March — December.

Reservations are required 48 hours in advance of the intended tour. Call (515) 281-7205 to make a reservation.

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topgolf.com/us/des-moines

Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill unclebucksfishbowlandgrill.com

Bass Pro Shops, 1000 Bass Pro Drive Northwest, Altoona | (515) 957-5400 Play or bowl in the ocean on our 12 bowling lanes and fun-for-all-ages arcade! Uncle Buck’s offers up a variety of appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches, fried seafood, full-service shipwreck bar, and more! Book a package or banquet and make a splash with your next celebration or event, we welcome groups of all sizes. Call to inquire about special offers for youth groups and field trips.

Uptown Ankeny Association uptownankeny.org

Uptown Ankeny, 601 SW 3rd Street, Ankeny | (515) 681-5347 Uptown Ankeny is Ankeny’s original neighborhood, where historic charm meets local flavor. Explore one-of-a-kind shops, breweries, and restaurants, right off the scenic High Trestle Trail. Uptown buzzes with community spirit as the home of the Ankeny Market & Pavilion, where community events such as the Uptown Ankeny Farmers’ Market, Beats and Eats, and more are held throughout the year.

From summer nights filled with music and laughter, to streets that sparkle during the holidays, Uptown Ankeny is where history, creativity, and celebration come together.

Warrior Lanes warriorlanes.com

190 SE Laurel Street, Waukee | (515) 987-4840 Visit Warrior Lanes’ 16 lanes of REAL 10-pin bowling in Waukee for a great time with family, friends, and coworkers at affordable prices. Our center is clean, bright, fully accessible, and family-friendly with plenty of parking.

Automatic scoring, automated bumpers, arcade, food, and beverages available. Call ahead for lane availability.

World Food Prize Hall of Laureates, The worldfoodprize.org

100 Locust Street, Des Moines | (515) 245-3783 The magnificent Norman E. Borlaug Hall of Laureates is home to the World Food Prize, known as the “Nobel Prize for Food and Agriculture.” Visit this beautifully restored century-old building and learn through art and interactive exhibits about global achievements in science, agriculture, and humanitarian efforts.

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

PH OTO BY K ATH RYN GAMBLE

PH OTO BY CLAIRE Z ELLMER

PH OTO COURT E SY OF S E V E N OA KS

Seven Oaks Recreation

Active Accessible Playgrounds Big Creek State Park 8794 NW 125th Avenue, Polk City (515) 984-6473 iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/ State-Parks/Iowa-State-Parks/ Big-Creek-State-Park Copper Creek Lake Park 4390 E University Avenue, Pleasant Hill pleasanthilliowa.org Doanes Park 4900 Doanes Park Road, Pleasant Hill (515) 262-9368 pleasanthilliowa.org Easter Lake Park 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines (515) 249-1543 polkcountyiowa.gov Fort Des Moines Park 7200 SE 5th Street, Des Moines (515) 285-7612 polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/ parks-trails/fort-des-moines-park Grandview Park 3230 Easton Boulevard, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Jester Park Elk & Bison Educational Plaza 12130 NW 128th Street, Granger (515) 323-5300 polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/ parks-trails/jester-park

Adventure Travel

Kiwanis Miracle League — Ankeny 410 W First Street, Ankeny (515) 963-3574 ankenymiracleleague.com

Amateur & Professional Sports

Lake Ahquabi State Park 16510 118th Avenue, Indianola (515) 961-7101 iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/StateParks/Iowa-State-Parks/LakeAhquabi-State-Park

Rail Explorers: Boone Division 123 10th Street, Boone (877) 833-8588 railexplorers.net

Des Moines Buccaneers Hockey MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex 6500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 278-2827 bucshockey.com

Prospect Park 1225 Prospect Road, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Des Moines Menace Soccer Club Valley Stadium 4440 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 226-9890 menacesoccer.com

Thomas Mitchell Park 4590 NE 108th Street, Mitchellville (515) 967-4889 polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/ parks-trails/thomas-mitchell-park

Iowa Barnstormers Casey’s Center at Iowa Events Center 730 3rd Street, Des Moines (515) 633-2255 theiowabarnstormers.com

Westchester Park 4901 Valdez Drive, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Iowa Cubs Principal Park 1 Line Drive, Des Moines (515) 243-6111 iowacubs.com

Yellow Banks Park 6801 SE 32nd Avenue, Pleasant Hill (515) 266-1563 polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/ parks-trails/yellow-banks-park

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Iowa Wild Casey’s Center at Iowa Events Center 730 3rd Street, Des Moines (515) 564-8700 iowawild.com

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Iowa Wolves Casey’s Center at Iowa Events Center 730 3rd Street, Des Moines (515) 564-8550 IAWolves.com

Annual Spectator Events Drake Relays America’s Athletic Classic Drake Stadium 28th Street & Forest Avenue, Des Moines godrakebulldogs.com/sports/ drake-relays Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union 5000 Westown Parkway, Suite 150, West Des Moines (515) 288-9741 ighsau.org Iowa High School Athletic Association 1605 S Story Street, Boone (515) 432-2011 iahsaa.org Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Casino, and Hotel 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona (515) 967-1000 prairiemeadows.com Principal Charity Classic Wakonda Club 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 279-4653 principalcharityclassic.com

Aquatic Centers Adventureland Park 3200 Adventureland Drive, Altoona (515) 266-2121 adventurelandresort.com Altoona Aquatics Park 1200 Venbury Drive, Altoona (515) 967-0788 altoonacampus.com/aquatics/ aquatics-park Ashworth Pool 102 45th Street, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Bates Park 330 Clark Street, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Birdland Pool 300 Holcomb Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Burke Park 601 E University Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Cascade Falls 2350 SW Prairie Trail Parkway, Ankeny (515) 963-3570 ankenyiowa.gov/697/Cascade-FallsAquatic-Center Clive Aquatic Center 1801 NW 114th Street, Clive (515) 440-0599 cityofclive.com/parkandrecreation/ aquatic_center/index.php Holiday Aquatic Center 1701 Railroad Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 273-0700 wdm.iowa.gov/government/parksrecreation/aquatic-centers-spraygrounds Martin Luther King Jr. Park 1650 Garfield Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Nahas Aquatic Center 1101 Porter Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Northwest Aquatic Center 4915 Madison Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Valley View Aquatic Center 255 S 81st Street, West Des Moines (515) 273-0700 wdm.iowa.gov/Home/ Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/3/1433 Veterans Memorial Aquatic Center 714 W Detroit Avenue, Indianola (515) 961-9422 indianolaiowa.gov/248/Aquatic-Center

Auto & Horse Racing Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Casino, and Hotel 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona (515) 967-1000 prairiemeadows.com

Bike Rentals Bcycle Greater Des Moines (515) 318-7488 desmoines.bcycle.com Big Creek State Park 8794 NW 125th Avenue, Polk City (515) 984-6473 iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/ Iowa-State-Parks/Big-Creek-State-Park Pearson Park 1256 19th Street, West Des Moines (515) 222-3444 wdm.iowa.gov/Home/ Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/36/1433 Street Collective 506 E 6th Street, Suite 100, Des Moines (515) 288-8022 dsmstreetcollective.org

Boat Rentals Big Creek State Park 8794 NW 125th Avenue, Polk City (515) 984-6473 iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/StateParks/Iowa-State-Parks/Big-CreekState-Park

Iowa State Fairgrounds 3000 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 262-3111 iowastatefairgrounds.org

Iowa Arboretum 1875 Peach Avenue, Madrid (515) 795-3216 iowaarboretum.org

Jester Park 12130 NW 128th Street, Granger (515) 323-5300 polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/ parks-trails/jester-park

Iowa Arboretum Treehouse Village 1875 Peach Avenue, Madrid (515) 795-3216 iowaarboretum.org/treehousevillage

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge Prairie Learning Center 9981 Pacific Street, Prairie City (515) 994-3400 fws.gov/refuge/neal-smith

Thomas Mitchell Park 4590 NE 108th Street, Mitchellville (515) 967-4889 polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/ parks-trails/thomas-mitchell-park

Reiman Gardens Iowa State University 1407 University Boulevard, Ames (515) 294-2710 reimangardens.com

Walnut Woods State Park 3155 Walnut Woods Drive, West Des Moines (515) 285-4502 iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/StateParks/Iowa-State-Parks/WalnutWoods-State-Park

Sargent Park 3500 E Douglas Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Yellow Banks Park 6801 SE 32nd Avenue, Pleasant Hill (515) 266-1563 polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/ parks-trails/yellow-banks-park

Des Moines Area Community College 2006 S Ankeny Boulevard, Ankeny (515) 964-6200 dmacc.edu Drake University 2507 University Avenue, Des Moines (515) 271-2011 drake.edu

Saylorville Lake Marina 6170 NW Polk City Drive, Polk City (515) 984-6541 saylorvillelakemarina.com

Bowling Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill Bass Pro Shops 1000 Bass Pro Drive Northwest, Altoona (515) 957-5400 unclebucksfishbowlandgrill.com

Pete Crivaro Park 1105 E Railroad Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Warrior Lanes 190 SE Laurel Street, Waukee (515) 987-4840 warriorlanes.com

Prairie Ridge Aquatic Center 1220 NW Prairie Ridge Drive, Ankeny (515) 963-3570 ankenyiowa.gov/700/Prairie-RidgeAquatic-Center

Campgrounds

Grand View University 1200 Grandview Avenue, Des Moines (515) 263-2800 grandview.edu Simpson College 701 N C Street, Indianola (515) 961-6251 simpson.edu

Connect with Nature Beaverdale Park 3333 Adams Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Adventureland Campground 3200 Adventureland Drive, Altoona (515) 266-2121 adventurelandresort.com/campground

Fort Des Moines Park 7200 SE 5th Street, Des Moines (515) 285-7612 polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/ parks-trails/fort-des-moines-park

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Jester Park Elk & Bison Educational Plaza 12130 NW 128th Street, Granger (515) 323-5300 polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/ parks-trails/jester-park

Polk County Conservation 12130 NW 128th Street, Granger (515) 323-5300 polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation

Collegiate Sports

Easter Lake Park 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines (515) 249-1543 polkcountyiowa.gov

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Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines (515) 323-6290 dmbotanicalgarden.com

Lake Ahquabi State Park 16510 118th Avenue, Indianola (515) 961-7101 iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/StateParks/Iowa-State-Parks/LakeAhquabi-State-Park

Norwalk Aquatic Center 1113 E 18th Street, Norwalk (515) 981-4002 norwalkparks.activityreg.com/ selectfacility_t2.wcs

Teachout Aquatic Center 2601 Hubbell Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt 8700 NE 126th Avenue, Maxwell (515) 967-2596 polkcountyiowa.gov/parks-trails/ chichaqua-bottoms-greenbelt

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Woodlawn Park 3126 Twana Drive, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Disc Golf

Ewing Park/Lilac Arboretum 5300 Indianola Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Grandview Park 3230 Easton Boulevard, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Heritage Park Disc Golf 302 1/2 NE Frisk Drive, Ankeny (515) 963-3570 ankenyiowa.gov/facilities/facility/ details/heritagepark-68 Norwalk Disc Golf Course 1916 North Avenue, Norwalk (515) 981-9206 norwalk.iowa.gov/departments/ parks___recreation/parks/disc_golf_ course.php Pete Crivaro Park 1105 E Railroad Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Pickard Park 2205 E 2nd Avenue, Indianola (516) 961-9420 indianolaiowa.gov/Facilities/Facility/ Details/Pickard-Park-26 Prospect Park 1225 Prospect Road, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Southwoods Park 350 S 35th Street, West Des Moines (515) 222-3444 wdm.iowa.gov/government/parksrecreation/parks-facilities-trails

Urbandale Dog Park 4905 68th Street, Urbandale urbandale.org/1089/Dog-Park

Walnut Ridge Disc Golf Course 9125 NW Beaver Drive, Johnston recreation.gov/camping/ campgrounds/234696

Windsor Heights Dog Park South of Colby Park and I-235, Windsor Heights (515) 279-3662 windsorheights.org/806/ Parks-Rentals

Dog Parks

Golf Courses

17th Avenue Dog Park 851 17th Avenue Southwest, Altoona (515) 967-5136 altoona-iowa.com/business_ detail_T12_R22.php

A.H. Blank Golf Course 808 County Line Road, Des Moines (515) 248-6300 golfblank.com

Ankeny Dog Park 1155 SW Ankeny Road, Ankeny (515) 963-3570 ankenyiowa.gov/427/Dog-Park Ewing Dog Park 4660 Indianola Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Indianola Dog Park 1710 S K Street, Indianola (515) 961-9420 indianolaiowa.gov/Facilities/facility/ details/dog-park-34 Norwalk City Park 907 North Avenue, Norwalk norwalk.iowa.gov/departments/ parks___recreation/parks/ city_park.php Paws & Pints 6218 Willowmere Drive, Des Moines (515) 969-2275 pawsandpints.com Raccoon River Park — Dog Park 2500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 222-3444 wdm.iowa.gov/DogPark Riverwalk Dog Park 1111 Illinois Street, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

*Private golf course

Woodland Hills Golf Course 620 NE 66th Avenue, Des Moines (515) 289-1326 golfwoodlandhills.com

MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex 6500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 440-4820 therecplex.com

Healthy Food Options

Other Spectator Events

Downtown Farmers’ Market Historic Court District, Des Moines (515) 286-4928 desmoinesfarmersmarket.com

Horseback Riding

Kiwanis Miracle League at Principal Park 529 SW 5th Street, Des Moines (515) 280-5017 kiwanismiracleleague.org

Jester Park Equestrian Center 11171 NW 103rd Court, Granger (515) 999-2818 polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/ jester-park-equestrian-center

Northview Park 4871 78th Street, Urbandale (515) 278-3963 urbandale.org/Facilities/Facility/ Details/Northview-Park-32

Hospitals, Clinics, & Chiropractors

Paintball & Shooting Sports — Outdoor

Bright Grandview Golf Course 2401 E 29th Street, Des Moines (515) 248-6301 golfbrightgrandview.com

Athletic Training Room, The 805 SE Waco Place, Waukee (515) 964-5000 theathletictrainer.com

Glen Oaks Country Club* 1401 Glen Oaks Drive, West Des Moines (515) 221-9000 glenoakscc.com

Blank Children’s Hospital 1200 Pleasant Street, Des Moines (515) 241-5437 blankchildrens.org

Banner Shooting Range 13796 Elk Horn Street, Indianola (515) 961-6408 iowadnr.gov/places-go/shootingranges/banner-shooting-range

Beaver Creek Golf Club 11200 NW Towner Drive, Grimes (515) 986-3221 beavercreek-golf.com

Jester Park Golf Course 11949 NW 118th Avenue, Granger (515) 999-2903 jesterparkgolf.com Otter Creek Golf Course 4100 NE Otter Creek Drive, Ankeny (515) 965-6464 ottercreekankeny.com Tournament Club of Iowa 1000 Tradition Drive, Polk City (515) 984-9440 tcofiowa.com Wakonda Club* 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 285-4962 wakondaclub.com Waveland Golf Course 4908 University Avenue, Des Moines (515) 248-6302 golfwaveland.com

Iowa Lutheran Hospital 700 E University Avenue, Des Moines (515) 263-5612 unitypointhealth.org Iowa Methodist Medical Center 1200 Pleasant Street, Des Moines (515) 241-6212 unitypointhealth.org Methodist West Hospital 1660 60th Street, West Des Moines (515) 343-1000 unitypointhealth.org

Hidden Point Park 1250 S Hidden Point Court, West Des Moines (515) 222-3444 wdm.iowa.gov/Home/ Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/160/1433 Raccoon River Park — Archery Facility 2500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 222-3444 wdm.iowa.gov/archery

Parks & Recreation Departments

Indoor Sports Attractions Climb Iowa 3605 SE Miehe Drive, Grimes (515) 986-2565 climbiowa.com

Altoona Parks & Recreation 900 Venbury Drive, Suite A, Altoona (515) 967-5136 altoona-iowa.com Ankeny Parks & Recreation 1210 NW Prairie Ridge Drive, Ankeny (515) 963-3570 ankenyiowa.gov/161/ Parks-Recreation

Climb Iowa East Village 150 E 4th Street. Des Moines (515) 244-2565 climbiowa.com

Your Best Round Starts in Des Moines.

Visit us in the park.

515-289-1326

waterworkspark.org

620 NE 66th Ave, Des Moines

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Bondurant Parks & Recreation 200 2nd Street Northeast, Bondurant (515) 967-2418 cityofbondurant.com/ parks-and-recreation City of Windsor Heights 1145 66th Street, Suite 1, Windsor Heights (515) 279-3662 windsorheights.org Clive Parks & Recreation 1900 NW 114th Street, Clive (515) 223-5246 cityofclive.com/parkandrecreation Des Moines Parks & Recreation 1551 E Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Grimes Parks & Recreation 410 SE Main Street, Grimes (515) 986-2143 grimesiowa.gov/174/Parks-Recreation Indianola Parks & Recreation 2204 W 2nd Avenue, Indianola (515) 961-9420 indianolaiowa.gov/225/ Parks-Recreation

James W. Cownie Baseball Park 2050 SE 22nd Street, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Iowa Heartland Resource Conservation & Development Warren County Admin Building 301 N Buxton Street, Suite 213, Indianola (515) 468-0067 landcan.org/local-resources/IowaHeartland-Resource-Conservationand-Development/75094

James W. Cownie Soccer Park 2600 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge Principal Riverwalk Just south of Interstate 235, Des Moines downtowndesmoines.com/iowawomen-of-achievement-bridge

Lauridsen Skatepark 901 2nd Avenue, Des Moines (515) 323-5300 dsmskatepark.com Mediacom Stadium 1427-1483 25th Street, Des Moines dmschools.org/stadium

Principal Riverwalk 115 Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex 6500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 440-4820 therecplex.com

Water Sports & Rentals Big Creek State Park 8794 NW 125th Avenue, Polk City (515) 984-6473 iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/ Iowa-State-Parks/Big-Creek-State-Park

Polk City Sports Complex 1701 W Bridge Road, Polk City (515) 984-6233 polkcityia.gov/parks-and-recreation/ parks/slideshows/sports-complex

Johnston Parks & Recreation 6400 NW Beaver Drive, Johnston (515) 727-8091 cityofjohnston.com

Raccoon River Park — Softball Complex 2500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 222-3454 wdm.iowa.gov/government/parksrecreation/parks-facilities-trails

Norwalk Parks and Recreation 2011 E 18th Street, Norwalk (515) 981-9206 norwalk.iowa.gov/departments/ parks___recreation/index.php

Walker Johnston Park 9000 Douglas Avenue, Urbandale (515) 278-3963 urbandale.org/facilities/facility/ details/walkerjohnstonpark-39

Pleasant Hill Parks & Recreation 5160 Maple Drive, Suite A, Pleasant Hill (515) 262-9368 pleasanthilliowa.org/parks

Road Races

Polk City Parks & Recreation 200 S Fourth Street, Polk City (515) 984-6233 polkcityia.gov

Grand Blue Mile Greater Des Moines grandbluemile.com

Polk County Conservation 12130 NW 128th Street, Granger (515) 323-5300 polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation Urbandale Parks & Recreation 3310 86th Street, Urbandale (515) 278-3963 urbandale.org West Des Moines Parks & Recreation 4200 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 222-3444 wdm.iowa.gov/government/ parks-recreation

Recreation & Sports Facilities Gregg Young Sports Campus 1951 E 18th Street, Norwalk greggyoungsportscampus.com Horizon Events Center 2100 NW 100th Street, Clive (515) 207-5245 horizoneventscenter.com

Gray’s Lake 2100 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Lake Ahquabi State Park 16510 118th Avenue, Indianola (515) 961-7101 iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/StateParks/Iowa-State-Parks/LakeAhquabi-State-Park Raccoon River Park — Boathouse 2500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 440-4787 wdm.iowa.gov/Home/ Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/158/1433

DAM to DSM Greater Des Moines damtodsm.com

Saylorville Lake Marina 6170 NW Polk City Drive, Polk City (515) 984-6541 saylorvillelakemarina.com

Sporting Goods

Fitness Sports 8810 Swanson Boulevard, Clive (515) 277-4785 fitnesssports.com Fleet Feet Des Moines Historic East Village 521 E Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 323-3338 fleetfeetdesmoines.com Ichi Bike Historic East Village 311 E Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 274-0397 ichibike.com

Trails Greenbelt Trail 1900 NW 114th Street, Clive (515) 223-5246 cityofclive.com/parkandrecreation/ greenbelt/index.php ICON Water Trails Greater Des Moines (515) 452-0024 iconwatertrails.com

C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt 8700 NE 126th Avenue, Maxwell (515) 967-2596 polkcountyiowa.gov

53

Winter Park 5110 72nd Street, Urbandale (515) 278-3963 urbandale.org/Facilities/Facility/ Details/Winter-Park-46

Arts & Culture Artists Mainframe Studios 900 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines (515) 216-4253 mainframestudios.org

Classes & Workshops

Board & Brush 12871 University Avenue, Suite 150, Clive (515) 850-8201 boardandbrush.com/clive Des Moines Art Center 4700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 277-4405 desmoinesartcenter.org Des Moines Community Playhouse 831 42nd Street, Des Moines (515) 277-6261 dmplayhouse.com Middlebrook Agrihood 4300 Cumming Avenue, Cumming (515) 309-0705 middlebrookfarm.com

Concerts & Live Music Central Iowa Blues Society Greater Des Moines cibs.org Civic Music Association 900 Keosauqua Way, Suite 113, Des Moines (515) 280-4020 civicmusic.org

Winter Sports

Covered Bridges Winery 2207 170th Trail, Winterset (515) 729-9463 coveredbridgeswinery.com

Brenton Skating Plaza 520 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines (515) 283-4233 dmparks.org

Des Moines Civic Center 221 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 246-2300 desmoinesperformingarts.org

MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex 6500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 440-4820 therecplex.com

Des Moines Metro Opera 106 W Boston Avenue, Indianola (515) 961-6221 desmoinesmetroopera.org

Pointe Vista Park 9612 Enfield Drive, Johnston (515) 727-8091 cityofjohnston.com/887/ Pointe-Vista-Park

Des Moines Symphony The Temple for Performing Arts 1011 Locust Street, Suite 200, Des Moines (515) 280-4000 dmsymphony.org

Seven Oaks Recreation 1086 222nd Drive, Boone (515) 432-9457 sevenoaksrec.com

Harmony Delegation Chorus Greater Des Moines (515) 259-0764 harmonydelegation.com

Terra Park 6400 Pioneer Parkway, Johnston (515) 727-8091 cityofjohnston.com/890/Terra-Park

Hoyt Sherman Place Historic Sherman Hill 1501 Woodland Avenue, Des Moines (515) 244-0507 hoytsherman.org

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Lauridsen Amphitheater Des Moines Water Works Park 2251 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines (515) 240-7993 dsmwaterworkspark.com/lauridsenamphitheater-3

World Food & Music Festival Historic East Village 4th – 7th blocks of E Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 515-286-4906 worldfoodandmusicfestival.org

Middlebrook Agrihood 4300 Cumming Avenue, Cumming (515) 309-0705 middlebrookfarm.com

Film & Cinema

Stoner Theater Des Moines Civic Center 221 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 246-2300 desmoinesperformingarts.org Vibrant Music Hall 2938 Grand Prairie Parkway, Waukee (515) 895-4972 vibrantmusichall.com

Entertainment Venues Board & Brush 12871 University Avenue, Suite 150, Clive (515) 850-8201 boardandbrush.com/clive Casey’s Center at Iowa Events Center 730 3rd Street, Des Moines (515) 564-8000 iowaeventscenter.com Horizon Events Center 2100 NW 100th Street, Clive (515) 207-5245 horizoneventscenter.com Iowa State Fairgrounds 3000 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 262-3111 iowastatefairgrounds.org Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Casino, and Hotel 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona (515) 967-1000 prairiemeadows.com Prairie Meadows Riveria Stage at Riverview Riverview Park, Des Moines 710 Corning Avenue riverviewevents.org Vibrant Music Hall 2938 Grand Prairie Parkway, Waukee (515) 895-4972 vibrantmusichall.com

Festivals Capital City PrideFest Historic East Village 4th — 7th blocks of E Grand Avenue, Des Moines capitalcitypride.org Des Moines Arts Festival Western Gateway Park 15th & Locust Streets, Des Moines desmoinesartsfestival.org Iowa’s Latino Heritage Festival Western Gateway Park 15th & Locust Streets, Des Moines (515) 279-0715 latinoheritagefestival.org Sleepy Hollow Sports Park, Inc. 4051 Dean Avenue, Des Moines (515) 262-4100 SleepyHollowSportsPark.com

Is this England?

No, it’s Iowa.

Fleur Cinema & Cafe, The 4545 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 287-4545 fleurcinema.com Jordan Creek Town Center 101 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 440-6255 jordancreektowncenter.com Palms Theatres & IMAX, The 200 NE Westgate Drive, Waukee (515) 630-2337 fridleytheatres.com

Galleries & Exhibits Des Moines Art Center 4700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 277-4405 desmoinesartcenter.org Mainframe Studios 900 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines (515) 216-4253 mainframestudios.org

Museums & Cultural Attractions Bennett Schoolhouse 4001 Fuller Road, West Des Moines (515) 225-1286 wdmhs.org/the-bennett-school Blank Park Zoo 7401 SW 9th Street, Des Moines (515) 285-4722 blankparkzoo.com Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines (515) 323-6290 dmbotanicalgarden.com Historic Jordan House 2001 Fuller Road, West Des Moines (515) 225-1286 wdmhs.org/the-jordan-house Iowa Architectural Foundation 400 Locust Street, Suite 100, Des Moines (515) 244-1888 iowaarchfoundation.org Iowa Gold Star Military Museum Camp Dodge 7105 NW 70th Avenue, Johnston (515) 252-4531 goldstarmuseum.iowa.gov Iowa State Capitol Historic East Village 1007 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 281-5591 legis.iowa.gov/resources/tourcapitol Living History Farms 11121 Hickman Road, Urbandale (515) 278-5286 lhf.org

C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

salisburyhouse.org | (515) 274 - 1777 4025 Tonawanda Drive, DSM, IA 50312

Madison County Chamber of Commerce 73 Jefferson Street, Winterset (515) 462-1185 madisoncounty.com Mainframe Studios 900 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines (515) 216-4253 mainframestudios.org Rollins Mansion 2801 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 657-7288 rollinsmansion.com Salisbury House & Gardens 4025 Tonawanda Drive, Des Moines (515) 274-1777 salisburyhouse.org Science Center of Iowa 401 W Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, Des Moines (515) 274-6868 sciowa.org Scottish Rite Consistory 519 Park Street, Des Moines (515) 288-8927 dmscottishrite.org State Historical Museum of Iowa Historic East Village 600 E Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 281-5111 history.iowa.gov

54

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Terrace Hill 2300 Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 281-7205 terracehill.iowa.gov

Opera & Classical Music Des Moines Metro Opera 106 W Boston Avenue, Indianola (515) 961-6221 desmoinesmetroopera.org Des Moines Symphony The Temple for Performing Arts 1011 Locust Street, Suite 200, Des Moines (515) 280-4000 dmsymphony.org

Public Art Art Along the Trail 1900 NW 114th Street, Clive (515) 223-5246 cityofclive.com/parkandrecreation/ greenbelt/art_along_the_trail_new/ index.php Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand, The Ingersoll & Grand Avenue, Des Moines theavenuesdsm.com Greenwood Park 100 45th Street, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org Iowa State Capitol Historic East Village 1007 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 281-5591 legis.iowa.gov/resources/tourcapitol

ai ly D en p O

!

World FAmous ribs and wings!

1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA . www.reimangardens.com

8 Locations in iowa

jethrosbbq.com

DOWNTOWN dES MOINES splash-seafood.com

C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

55

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

John & Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park Western Gateway Park 1330 Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 277-4405 desmoinesartcenter.org/visit/ pappajohn-sculpture-park

Hampton Inn & Suites Altoona 215 Adventureland Drive Northwest, Altoona (515) 967-5774 altoonadesmoines.hamptonbyhilton.com

Residence Inn by Marriott Ankeny 1515 SW Main Street, Ankeny (515) 446-7300 marriott.com/hotels/travel/dsmrkresidence-inn-des-moines-ankeny

Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center 929 3rd Street, Des Moines (515) 282-5251 choicehotels.com/iowa/des-moines/ comfort-inn-hotels/ia103?source=lb

Principal Riverwalk 115 Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 237-1386 dmparks.org

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites — Altoona 165 Adventureland Drive Northwest, Altoona (515) 967-1855 hiexpress.com/altoonaia

Sleep Inn & Suites — Ankeny 2406 SE Tones Drive, Ankeny (515) 964-5909 choicehotels.com/iowa/ankeny/ sleep-inn-hotels/ia243

Des Lux Hotel 800 Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 288-5800 desluxhotel.com

Theater & Dance Ballet Des Moines 655 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 440-1177 balletdesmoines.org Des Moines Civic Center 221 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 246-2300 desmoinesperformingarts.org Des Moines Community Playhouse 831 42nd Street, Des Moines (515) 277-6261 dmplayhouse.com Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show, The Historic East Village Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown 101 E Locust Street, Des Moines (866) 496-0535 dtctv.us/dtn-dmn Iowa Stage Theatre Company Stoner Theater of Des Moines Performing Arts 221 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 309-0251 iowastage.org Scottish Rite Consistory 519 Park Street, Des Moines (515) 288-8927 dmscottishrite.org

Hyatt Place Hotel — Altoona 480 Bass Pro Drive Northwest, Altoona (515) 520-8300 hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/iowa/hyattplace-altoona-des-moines/dsmza La Quinta Inn & Suites Altoona — Des Moines 1785 11th Street Northwest, Altoona (515) 706-1507 lq.com MyPlace — Altoona 2315 Adventureland Drive, Altoona (515) 348-7161 myplacehotels.com/locations/myplace-hotel-altoona-des-moines-ia Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Casino, and Hotel 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona (515) 967-1000 prairiemeadows.com Quality Inn & Suites — Altoona 2701 Adventureland Drive, Altoona (515) 461-4793 choicehotels.com/iowa/altoona/ quality-inn-hotels/ia202?source=lb

Stoner Theater Super 8 — Altoona Des Moines Civic Center 2101 Adventureland Drive, Altoona 221 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 967-7888 (515) 246-2300 wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/altoonadesmoinesperformingarts.org iowa/super-8-altoona-iowa/overview

WoodSpring Suites — Ankeny 6703 SE Bellagio Drive, Ankeny (515) 289-1701 woodspring.com

Clive Best Western PLUS — Des Moines West 1450 NW 118th Street, Clive (515) 221-2345 bestwesterniowa.com/hotels/bestwestern-plus-des-moines-inn-and-suites Country Inn & Suites — Des Moines West 1350 NW 118th Street, Clive (515) 223-9254 countryinns.com/cliveia Courtyard by Marriott — West/Clive 1520 NW 114th Street, Clive (515) 225-1222 marriott.com/dsmch La Quinta Inn 1390 NW 118th Street, Clive (515) 218-9187 wyndhamhotels.com/laquinta/cliveiowa/la-quinta-des-moines-westclive/overview Wildwood Lodge 11431 Forest Avenue, Clive (515) 222-9876 thewildwoodlodge.com

Hotels

Ankeny

Des Moines

Key

AmericInn Lodge & Suites — Ankeny 1610 SE Oralabor Road, Ankeny (515) 964-2004 americinn.com/hotels/ia/ankeny

AC Hotel by Marriott Des Moines East Village Historic East Village 401 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 518-6060 marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dsmad-achotel-des-moines-east-village/overview

Airport Shuttle Free Breakfast Pool Skywalk Access Pet Friendly

Altoona Comfort Inn — Altoona 2023 Adventureland Drive, Altoona (515) 967-4412 choicehotels.com/iowa/altoona/ comfort-inn-hotels/ia234 Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona 460 Bass Pro Drive Northwest, Altoona (515) 446-9888 marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dsmtofairfield-inn-and-suites-des-moinesaltoona/overview

Best Western Premier — Ankeny 2502 SE Tones Drive, Ankeny (515) 965-5678 bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotelrooms.16110.html Courtyard by Marriott — Ankeny 2405 SE Creekview Drive, Ankeny (515) 422-5555 marriott.com/dsman MyPlace — Ankeny 2506 SE Tones Drive, Ankeny (515) 381-0589 myplacehotels.com/my-place-hotelankeny-des-moines-ia

C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

AmericInn Hotel & Suites Des Moines Airport 1920 Hackley Avenue, Des Moines (515) 285-5180 americinn.com/hotels/ia/desmoines-airport Baymont Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport Hotel 6221 Willow Creek Avenue, Des Moines (515) 285-0654 wyndhamhotels.com/baymont/ des-moines-iowa/baymont-inn-andsuites-des-moines-airport/overview

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Des Moines Marriott Downtown 700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 245-5500 desmoinesmarriott.com Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown Historic East Village 101 E Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 244-1700 desmoines.embassysuites.com Fairfield Inn & Suites — Des Moines Downtown 207 Crocker Street, Des Moines (515) 350-7997 marriott.com/dsmfd Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Airport 6880 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 309-4444 marriott.com/dsmap Hampton Inn — Airport 5001 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 287-7300 desmoinesairport.hamptoninn.com Hilton Des Moines Downtown 435 Park Street, Des Moines (515) 241-1456 hiltondesmoinesdowntown.com Hilton Garden Inn — Des Moines Airport 6800 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 285-7777 hgi.com/desmoinesairport Holiday Inn Airport & Conference Center 6111 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 287-2400 airportholidayinndsm.com Holiday Inn Downtown at Mercy Campus 1050 6th Avenue, Des Moines (515) 283-0151 ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/ des-moines/dsmdw/hoteldetail Holiday Inn Express & Suites — Des Moines Downtown 333 SW 11th Street, Des Moines (515) 657-8181 holidayinnexpress.com/ desmoinesdtnia

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines Drake University 2650 University Avenue, Des Moines (515) 264-7960 home2desmoines.com Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton 1000 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 528-7733 hotelfortdesmoines.com Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel 401 Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 244-2151 marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dsmbrrenaissance-des-moines-saveryhotel/overview Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown Historic East Village 201 E Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 280-3828 staybridgesuites.com/desmoines Surety Hotel, Autograph Collection 206 6th Avenue, Des Moines (515) 985-2066 suretyhotel.com

Grimes Red Lion 251 SE Gateway Drive, Grimes (515) 986-9900 sonesta.com/red-lion-inn-suites/ia/ grimes/red-lion-inn-suites-grimes

Johnston AmericInn Hotel & Suites — Johnston 5050 Merle Hay Road, Johnston (515) 270-1111 americinn.com/hotels/ia/johnston Hilton Garden Inn — Des Moines/Urbandale 8600 Northpark Drive, Johnston (515) 270-8890 desmoinesurbandale.gardeninn.com Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center 5291 Stoney Creek Court, Johnston (515) 334-9000 stoneycreekhotels.com/hotel/ des-moines TownePlace Suites by Marriott Des Moines/Urbandale 8800 Northpark Drive, Johnston (515) 727-4066 marriott.com/dsmur

Norwalk Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Norwalk 2100 Hughes Drive, Norwalk (515) 519-5600 marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dsmnffairfield-inn-and-suites-norwalk

Pleasant Hill

Hampton Inn & Suites — Mills Civic Parkway 6160 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 218-1110 hilton.com/en/hotels/dsmwdhxhampton-suites-west-des-moinessw-mall-area

Sleep Inn & Suites — Pleasant Hill 5850 Morning Star Court, Pleasant Hill (515) 299-9922 choicehotels.com/iowa/pleasant-hill/ sleep-inn-hotels/ia112 WoodSpring Suites — Pleasant Hill 1525 Metro East Drive, Pleasant Hill (515) 266-9500 woodspring.com

Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive 7060 Lake Drive, West Des Moines (515) 223-4700 desmoineswest.hamptoninn.com

Urbandale Holiday Inn & Suites Des Moines Northwest 4800 Merle Hay Road, Urbandale (515) 278-4755 holidayinn.com/desmoinesia

Hilton Garden Inn — West Des Moines 205 S 64th Street, West Des Moines (515) 223-0571 westdesmoines.stayhgi.com

Hotel Renovo 11167 Hickman Road, Urbandale (515) 276-1126 hotelrenovo.com

Holiday Inn Express & Suites — Jordan West 240 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 223-4050 ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/ en/des-moines/dsmwd/hoteldetail

Ramada Tropics Resort & Conference Center 5000 Merle Hay Road, Urbandale (515) 200-2398 wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/desmoines-iowa/ramada-tropics-resortconference-center-des-moines/overview

Homewood Suites West 6220 Stagecoach Drive, West Des Moines (515) 218-7500 homewoodsuites.com

Hyatt Place West Des Moines at Jordan Creek Jordan Creek Town Center 295 S 64th Street, West Des Moines (515) 223-4001 desmoinesjordancreek.place.hyatt. com/en/hotel/home.html Residence Inn by Marriott at Jordan Creek Town Center Jordan Creek Town Center 160 S Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 267-0338 marriott.com/dsmri Rewind Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton 6075 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 309-3900 rewindhotel.com Sheraton West Des Moines 1800 50th Street, West Des Moines (515) 223-1800 marriott.com/dsmsi Simply Suites by Sonesta 7625 Office Plaza Drive North, West Des Moines (515) 221-0001 sonesta.com/us/iowa/des-moines/ sonesta-simply-suites-des-moines

Revel Hotel 11211 Hickman Road, Urbandale (515) 270-2424 revelhoteldsm.com

West Des Moines Comfort Inn and Suites West Des Moines 1625 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 440-3679 choicehotels.com/iowa/west-desmoines/comfort-inn-hotels/ia240 Courtyard by Marriott — West Des Moines at Jordan Creek 410 S 68th Street, West Des Moines (515) 223-9800 marriott.com/dsmcw Drury Inn & Suites — West Des Moines West Glen Town Center 5505 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 457-9500 druryhotels.com/locations/des-moinesia/drury-inn-and-suites-west-des-moines Element West Des Moines West Glen Town Center 575 S Prairie View Drive, West Des Moines (515) 661-4345 elementwestdesmoines.com

16 Event Rooms | 12,000 sq ft Ballroom 285 Guest Rooms & Suites Onsite Dining, Fitness Center & Pool

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott — West Des Moines 7225 Vista Drive, West Des Moines (515) 225-6100 marriott.com/dsmwf

C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

1800 50th Street | (515) 223-1800 www.marriott.com/dsmsi

57

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

SpringHill Suites by Marriott — West Des Moines 1236 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 223-9005 marriott.com/dsmsh Staybridge Suites West Des Moines 6905 Lake Drive, West Des Moines (515) 223-0000 staybridge.com/westdesmoines TownePlace Suites West Des Moines — Jordan Creek Jordan Creek Town Center 125 S 68th Street, West Des Moines (515) 223-8015 marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dsmts West Des Moines Marriott 1250 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 267-1500 marriott.com/dsmwd WoodSpring Suites — West Des Moines 7255 Lake Drive, West Des Moines (515) 705-7644 woodspring.com/extended-stayhotels/locations/iowa/des-moines/ woodspring-suites-west-des-moines

Other Hotels ALTOONA Best Western Plus Altoona Inn (515) 967-2400 Home2 Suites Altoona (515) 317-8599 Motel 6/Studio 6 — Altoona Des Moines East (515) 967-5252 ANKENY Comfort Inn & Suites Ankeny-Des Moines (515) 965-8400

Super 8 — Ankeny (515) 706-1597 Tru by Hilton (515) 644-1200 Wyndham Garden Hotel & Events Center Ankeny-Des Moines (515) 218-2247

Super 8 — West Des Moines/Clive (515) 259-1347

NORWALK Tru By Hilton 515-954-2500

DES MOINES A-1 Motel (515) 287-5160 Baymont Inn & Suites (515) 650-1269 Budget Inn & Suites (515) 265-5611 Clarion Inn Des Moines Airport (515) 287-6464 Cozy Rest Motel (515) 244-5510 Days Inn & Suites — Airport (515) 256-0603 Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Fairgrounds (515) 216-0196 Hawkeye Motel (515) 244-8828 Homewood Suites — Des Moines Airport (515) 285-7201 Hyatt Place Des Moines Downtown (515) 282-5555 Motel 6 — Des Moines North (515) 266-5456 Motel 8 (515) 265-0378

Days Inn — Ankeny (515) 954-3581

Quality Inn (515) 266-6800

Econo Lodge Ankeny (515) 963-1100

Quality Inn & Suites — Merle Hay (515) 278-2381

Hampton Inn & Suites — Ankeny (515) 261-4400

Quality Inn & Suites at Des Moines Airport (515) 287-3434

POLK CITY Qube Hotel (515) 984-3092 URBANDALE Extended Stay America — Urbandale (515) 276-1929 Fairfield Inn & Suites — Urbandale (515) 278-2500 Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines/Urbandale (515) 252-7000 Holiday Inn Express & Suites Urbandale Des Moines (515) 278-9000 Homewood Suites — Urbandale 515-650-4400 Microtel Inn & Suites Urbandale (515) 612-7497 WEST DES MOINES Days Inn West Des Moines (515) 612-7446 Motel 6 — Des Moines West (515) 267-8885 Select Suites Des Moines — West Des Moines (515) 327-9100 Sleep Inn & Suites —West Des Moines (515) 978-4012

Restaurants

Redwood Motel (515) 265-1601

Homewood Suites by Hilton Des Moines/Ankeny (515) 963-0006

Residence Inn Des Moines — Downtown (515) 288-4500

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ankeny IA Des Moines IA (515) 963-9500

Royal Motel (515) 274-0459 Sonesta Essential Des Moines (515) 278-8858 Super 8 (515) 265-5671

C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

$ $$ $$$ $$$$

Under $10 $10.01 — $20 $20.01 — $30 $30.01 +

B BR L D

Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner

Altoona AJ’s Steakhouse Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Casino, and Hotel 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona (515) 957-3535 prairiemeadows.com/dining/ ajs-steakhouse D:$$$$ Steak & Chop

58

Burger Shed 500 Bass Pro Drive Northwest, Altoona (515) 630-7433 eatatburgershed.com L:$$ D:$$ American

Café at the Meadows Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Casino, and Hotel 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona (515) 967-1000 prairiemeadows.com/dining/cafe-atthe-meadows B:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

Jethro’s BBQ ‘n Jake’s Smokehouse Steaks 2601 Adventureland Drive, Altoona (515) 957-9727 altoona.jethrosdesmoines.com L:$ D:$$ Barbecue

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse — Altoona 550 Bass Pro Drive Northwest, Altoona (515) 957-9600 johnnysitaliansteakhouse.com L:$$ D:$$$ Steak & Chop

Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill Bass Pro Shops 1000 Bass Pro Drive Northwest, Altoona (515) 957-5400 unclebucksfishbowlandgrill.com L:$$ D:$$ American

Ankeny 30hop The District at Prairie Trail 1535 SW Market Street, Suite 100, Ankeny (515) 289-0227 30hop.com

BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

Jethro’s BBQ n’ LakeHouse The District at Prairie Trail 1425 SW Vintage Parkway, Ankeny (515) 289-4444 ankeny.jethrosdesmoines.com L:$$ D:$$ Barbecue

RedChillez Indian Cuisine 1701 SE Delaware Avenue, Suite 300, Ankeny (515) 207-1767 redchillezankeny.com L:$$ D:$$ Indian

Tribute Eatery & Bar The District at Prairie Trail 1615 SW Main Street, Suite 105, Ankeny (515) 217-5005 tributebar.com BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

Key

Red Roof Inn (515) 265-7511

Home2 Suites by Hilton Ankeny (515) 644-1100

Staybridge Suites Des Moines North (515) 304-5050

Quality Inn & Suites — Indianola (515) 961-0058 JOHNSTON GrandStay Johnston — Des Moines (515) 612-7660

Palace Inn (515) 289-2770

Quality Inn & Suites — Ankeny (515) 964-8202

Hotel Pommier (515) 961-0551

CLIVE Days Inn Des Moines West/Clive (515) 337-0273

Country Inn — Ankeny (515) 644-6164

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines — Ankeny (515) 965-2400

INDIANOLA Country Inn & Suites — Indianola (515) 808-4054

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Clive 5 Borough Bagels 13435 University Avenue, Suite 300, Clive (515) 809-1807 5boroughbagels.com B:$ BR:$ L:$ Coffee & Tea

Des Moines Allora Cafe Krause Gateway Center 1459 Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 274-7787 krausegatewaycenter.com/alloracafe B:$$ L:$$ Italian

Aposto 644 18th Street, Des Moines (515) 244-1353 apostodm.com D:$$$ Italian

Baratta’s 2320 S Union Street, Des Moines (515) 243-4516 barattas.com L:$ D:$$ Italian

Big Grove Brewery 555 17th Street, Des Moines (515) 777-2337 biggrove.com L:$$ D:$$ American

B-Lo Zero Sno Cones & Minnie Donuts Greater Des Moines facebook.com/p/B-Lo-ZeroSno-Cones-Minnie Donuts100057172730929 L:$ D:$ Food Trucks

Bubba Southern Comforts 200 10th Street, Des Moines (515) 257-4744 bubbadsm.com

BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ Soul Chic — American

Buzzard Billy’s 615 3rd Street, Des Moines (515) 244-2899 buzzardbillys.com B:$ BR:$ L:$ D:$$ Cajun

Captain Roy’s 1900 Saylor Road, Des Moines (515) 631-2223 captainroys.com BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

Centro 1003 Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 248-1780 centrodesmoines.com

Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company Historic Court District 309 Court Avenue, Des Moines (515) 282-2739 courtavebrew.com

Exile Brewing Company 1514 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 883-2337 exilebrewing.com

B:$$ BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$$ Brew Pub

Django 1420 Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 288-0268 djangodesmoines.com BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$$ French

BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ Brew Pub

Harbinger The Avenues 2724 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines (515) 244-1314 harbingerdsm.com

Flora Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines (515) 323-6290 dmbotanicalgarden.com

Hessen Haus Historic Court District 101 SW 4th Street, Des Moines (515) 288-2520 hessenhaus.com

L:$$ Farm to Table

Drake Diner 1111 25th Street, Des Moines (515) 277-1111 drakediner.com B:$ L:$ D:$$ American

BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

El Bait Shop Historic Court District 200 SW 2nd Street, Des Moines (515) 284-1970 elbaitshop.com

High Life Lounge Historic Court District 200 SW 2nd Street, Des Moines (515) 280-1965 thehighlifelounge.com

Gateway Market & Café The Avenues 2002 Woodland Avenue, Des Moines (515) 243-1754 gatewaymarket.com

Hobnob Coffee and Wine Bar Hotel Fort Des Moines 1000 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 528-7733 hotelfortdesmoines.com/dining/ hobnob-coffee-and-wine-bar

B:$ L:$ D:$ American

Genevieve’s Holiday Inn Downtown at Mercy Campus 1050 6th Avenue, Des Moines (515) 283-0151 holidayinn.com/dsm-downtown

L:$ D:$ American

Empire DSM, The Historic Court District 223 4th Street, Des Moines (515) 369-1905 theempiredsm.com

B:$ L:$ American

Grill, The Holiday Inn Airport & Conference Center 6111 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 287-2400 holiday-inn.com/dsm-airport

B:$ BR:$ L:$ D:$ American

B:$ L:$ D:$$ American

BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$$ Italian

A FINE DINING EXPERIENCE GUIDED BY THE SEASONS www.oakparkdsm.com

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59

L:$ D:$$ German

Fong’s Pizza Historic East Village 317 E Court Avenue, Des Moines (515) 323-3333 fongspizza.com L:$ D:$$ Pizza

Either/Or 6222 Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 214-1823 eitherordsm.com

D:$$$ Farm to Table

VISITORS GUIDE 2026

L:$ D:$ American

B:$$ Coffee & Tea

HoQ Restaurant Historic East Village 303 E 5th Street, Des Moines (515) 244-1213 hoqtable.com

B:$ BR:$ L:$$ D:$$ Farm to Table

Iowa Taproom, The Historic East Village 215 E 3rd Street, Suite 100, Des Moines (515) 243-0827 iowataproom.com L:$ D:$$ American

Now Open!

1615 SW Main Street Ankeny, IA 515-217-5005

GONG FU TEA

®

VISIT US IN ANKENY 30HOP.COM

RETHINK YOUR DRINK 133 LOOSE-LEAF TEAS ACCESSORIES | GIFTS 414 EAST SIXTH STREET | 515 288 3388

www.gongfu-tea.com

Good times start here!

Visit Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill inside Bass Pro Shops for a unique bowling and arcade adventure!

Full Bar, Signature Pizzas, Sandwiches, Snacks and more!

DIVE IN! PLAN YOUR PARTY OR EVENT!

515 957 5500 WWW.UNCLEBUCKSFISHBOWLANDGRILL.COM 1000 Bass Pro Dr NW, Altoona, IA 50009

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Jethro’s BBQ All Stars 721 3rd Street, Des Moines (515) 279-3300 jethrosdesmoines.com

Paws & Pints 6218 Willowmere Drive, Des Moines (515) 969-2275 pawsandpints.com

Grimes

Jethro’s BBQ Southside Des Moines 4337 Park Avenue, Des Moines (515) 630-6374 southside.jethrosdesmoines.com

Proudfoot & Bird Hotel Fort Des Moines 1000 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 957-2400 hotelfortdesmoines.com/#dining

L:$$ D:$$ American

L:$ D:$$ Barbecue

L:$$ D:$$ Barbecue

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse — Des Moines Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines Airport 6800 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 287-0847 johnnysitaliansteakhouse.com L:$$ D:$$$ Steak & Chop

Liberty’s — An Iowa Grill Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown 101 E Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 244-1700 desmoines.embassysuites.com L:$$ D:$$ American

Local Bites 700 Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 334-3435 eatlocalbites.com Fast Food Lua Brewing 1525 High Street, Des Moines (515) 630-5311 luabeer.com BR:$$ L:$$ D: $$ American

Lucky Horse Beer & Burgers 2331 University Avenue, Des Moines (515) 381-9088 luckyhorsedsm.com L:$ D:$$ American

Malo 900 Mulberry Street, Des Moines (515) 244-5000 malodesmoines.com BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ Mexican

Mami Churros & Creamery Greater Des Moines (507) 210-3878 facebook.com/p/Mami-ChurrosCreamery-61558150838047/?_rdr B: BR: L:$ D:$ Food Trucks

Mulberry Street Tavern Surety Hotel, Autograph Collection 206 6th Avenue, Des Moines (515) 985-2066 suretyhotel.com B:$$ BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

Noah’s Ark Restaurant The Avenues 2400 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines (515) 288-2246 noahsarkdesmoines.com L:$ D:$$ Italian

Oak Park The Avenues 3901 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines (515) 620-2185 oakparkdsm.com D:$$$$ American

Park Street Kitchen and Bar Hilton Des Moines Downtown 435 Park Street, Des Moines (515) 645-4065 hiltondesmoinesdowntown.com

B:$ BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$$$ American

Destination Grille 2491 E First Street, Grimes (515) 355-1153 destinationgrille.com

B:$ BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

Johnston Cheba Hut 5260 Merle Hay Road, Suite 6, Johnston (515) 415-9525 chebahut.com

D:$$$ American

Republic on Grand Historic East Village AC Hotel 401 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 518-6070 therepublicongrand.com

L:$$ D:$$ American

Trostel’s Greenbriar 5810 Merle Hay Road, Johnston (515) 253-0124 greenbriartrostels.com

L:$$ D:$$ American

Royal Mile Historic Court District 210 4th Street, Des Moines (515) 282-2012 royalmilebar.com

L:$$ D:$$$ American

Luther Whatcha Smokin’ BBQ + Brew 403 Iowa Avenue, Luther (515) 257-7490 whatchasmokinbbq.com

L:$$ D:$$ British

SingleSpeed Brewing Co 303 Scott Avenue Des Moines, IA 50309 (515) 214-1879 singlespeedbrewing.com/ taprooms/des-moines/

L:$$ D:$$ Barbecue

Polk City Arcadia 1010 Tyler Street, Suite 4, Polk City (515) 207-0011 arcadiapolkcity.com

BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ Brew Pub

South Union Bread Café 1007 Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 248-1782 southunionbreadcafe.com

BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

Tournament Club of Iowa 1000 Tradition Drive, Polk City (515) 984-9440 tcofiowa.com

L:$$ Deli

Splash Seafood Bar & Grill 303 Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 244-5686 splash-seafood.com

BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

Urbandale

D:$$$ Seafood

5 Borough Bagels Urbandale 11101 Plum Drive, Urbandale (515) 214-1837 5boroughbagels.com

Star Bar The Avenues 2811 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines (515) 244-0790 starbardsm.com

B:$ BR:$ L:$ Coffee & Tea

Station on Ingersoll, The 3124 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines (515) 381-0052 thestationdsm.com

Bennigan’s Holiday Inn & Suites — Des Moines Northwest 4800 Merle Hay Road, Urbandale (515) 276-7777 bennigans.com

Truman’s Pizza Tavern 400 SE 6th Street, Des Moines (515) 214-2759 trumanstavern.com

Machine Shed 11151 Hickman Road, Urbandale (515) 270-6818 machineshed.com

Tupelo Honey 665 Grand Avenue, Suite 100, Des Moines (515) 513-5922 tupelohoneycafe.com/restaurant/ des-moines

West Des Moines

University Library Café 3506 University Avenue, Des Moines (515) 255-0433 thelibrarydm.com B:$ BR:$ L:$ D:$ American

Chicken, The Great Western Trail 4221 SE Orilla Road, West Des Moines (515) 410-2520 thechickenorilla.com

Zombie Burger + Drink Lab Historic East Village 300 E Grand Avenue, Suite 100, Des Moines (515) 244-9292 zombieburgerdm.com

Fire Creek Grill 800 S 50th Street, Suite 110, West Des Moines (515) 224-0500 firecreekgrill.com

B:$ BR:$ L:$ D:$$ American

L:$$ D:$$ American

B:$ L:$ D:$$ American

B:$ L:$ D:$$ Pizza

B:$ L:$ D:$$ American

Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano 5990 University Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 221-9900 biaggis.com

BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

L:$ D:$$ Italian

BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

L:$ D:$ American

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L:$$ D:$$ American

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Jordan Creek Town Center 150 S Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 457-2916 flemingssteakhouse.com/locations/ ia/west-des-moines L:$$ D:$$$$ Steak & Chop

Gilroy’s 1238 8th Street, West Des Moines (515) 809-1727 gilroyskitchen.com BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

Giordano’s 120 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 650-2058 giordanos.com L:$$ D:$$ Pizza

HiFi Brew Lounge 103 S 11th Street, West Des Moines (515) 415-1085 hifibrewlounge.com BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

JC Craft & Co. West Des Moines Marriott 1250 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 267-1500 jccraftco.com

B:$$ BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$$ American

Jethro’s BBQ n’ Bacon Bacon 1480 22nd Street, West Des Moines (515) 868-0888 westdesmoines.jethrosdesmoines.com B:$$ BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ Barbecue

Jethro’s BBQ ‘n Jambalaya 9350 SE University Avenue, Suite 104, West Des Moines (515) 987-8686 waukee.jethrosdesmoines.com L:$$ D:$$ Barbecue

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse — West Des Moines The Rewind Hotel, a Tapestry Collection by Hilton 6075 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 333-5665 johnnysitaliansteakhouse.com

B:$$ L:$$ D:$$$ Steak & Chop

Park Place Restaurant Sheraton West Des Moines 1800 50th Street, West Des Moines (515) 223-1800 marriott.com/dsmsi B:$ L:$$ Buffet

Pelican Post Bar & Grille, The 265 50th Street, West Des Moines (515) 214-1873 thepelicanpostdsm.com BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ Seafood

Smash Park 6625 Coachlight Drive, West Des Moines (515) 313-0700 smashpark.com

BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

Topgolf Des Moines 7680 Coachlight Drive, West Des Moines (515) 336-6859 topgolf.com/us/des-moines

BR:$$ L:$$ D:$$ American

Waterfall Grille Restaurant & Lounge Sheraton West Des Moines 1800 50th Street, West Des Moines (515) 223-1800 marriott.com/dsmsi

Hobnob Coffee and Wine Bar Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton 1000 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 528-7733 hotelfortdesmoines.com

Waterfront Seafood Market Clocktower Square 2900 University Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 223-5106 waterfrontseafoodmarket.com

Ken’s - a not so secret speakeasy Historic East Village 215 E 3rd Street, Suite 100, Des Moines (515) 243-0827 iowataproom.com/kens

L:$ D:$$ Bistro

L:$ D:$$ Seafood

Bars & Nightlife 30hop 1535 SW Market Street, Suite 100, Ankeny (515) 289-0227 30hop.com Captain Roy’s 1900 Saylor Road, Des Moines (515) 631-2223 captainroys.com Des Lux Bar Des Lux Hotel 800 Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 288-5800 desluxhotel.com/amenities/deslux-bar El Bait Shop Historic Court District 200 SW 2nd Street, Des Moines (515) 284-1970 elbaitshop.com Empire DSM, The Historic Court District 223 4th Street, Des Moines (515) 369-1905 theempiredsm.com Fong’s Pizza Historic East Village 317 E Court Avenue, Des Moines (515) 323-3333 fongspizza.com Gilroy’s 1238 8th Street, West Des Moines (515) 809-1727 gilroyskitchen.com

Lucky Horse Beer & Burgers 2331 University Avenue, Des Moines (515) 381-9088 luckyhorsedsm.com LynnLee Patio Bar Fairfield Inn & Suites — Des Moines Downtown 207 Crocker Street, Des Moines (515) 350-7997 fairfield.marriott.com New Northwestern, The Historic East Village 321 E Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 410-1423 thenewnorthwestern.com Park Street Kitchen and Bar Hilton Des Moines Downtown 435 Park Street, Des Moines (515) 645-4065 hiltondesmoinesdowntown.com Paws & Pints 6218 Willowmere Drive, Des Moines (515) 969-2275 pawsandpintsdsm.com Pelican Post Bar & Grille, The 265 50th Street, West Des Moines (515) 214-1873 thepelicanpostdsm.com Republic on Grand Historic East Village AC Hotel 410 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 518-6070 therepublicongrand.com Ricochet Capital Square 400 Locust Street, Suite 105, Des Moines (515) 410-1323 ricochetdsm.com

Royal Mile Historic Court District 210 4th Street, Des Moines (515) 282-2012 royalmilebar.com Secret Admirer 110 SW 5th Street, Des Moines secretadmirerdm.com Smash Park 6625 Coachlight Drive, West Des Moines (515) 313-0700 smashpark.com Spare Time Des Moines 340 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 414-2824 sparetimeentertainment.com/ desmoines Star Bar The Avenues 2811 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines (515) 244-0790 starbardsm.com Tonic Court Avenue Historic Court District 210 Court Avenue, Des Moines (515) 777-1182 toniccourt.com Topgolf Des Moines 7680 Coachlight Drive, West Des Moines (515) 336-6859 topgolf.com/us/des-moines Tribute Eatery & Bar The District at Prairie Trail 1615 SW Main Street, Suite 105, Ankeny (515) 217-5005 tributebar.com/ankeny Truman’s Pizza Tavern 400 SE 6th Street, Des Moines (515) 214-2759 trumanstavern.com Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill Bass Pro Shops 1000 Bass Pro Drive Northwest, Altoona (515) 957-5400 unclebucksfishbowlandgrill.com

Good News, Darling 717 Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 369-2296 exploretock.com Hello, Marjorie 717 Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 369-2296 hellomarjorie.com Hessen Haus Historic Court District 101 SW 4th Street, Des Moines (515) 288-2520 hessenhaus.com High Life Lounge Historic Court District 200 SW 2nd Street, Des Moines (515) 280-1965 thehighlifelounge.com

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

University Library Café 3506 University Avenue, Des Moines (515) 255-0433 thelibrarydm.com

Shopping Antiques & Collectibles Raccoon Forks Trading Company 621 Des Moines Street, Des Moines (515) 809-1715 raccoonforks.com West End Architectural Salvage 22 9th Street, Des Moines (515) 243-4405 westendsalvage.com

Bakery Biker Chic Cupcakes Greater Des Moines (515) 978-1307 bikerchiccupcakes.com ChaCha’s Hiland Bakery 3615 6th Avenue, Des Moines (515) 282-4059 chachashilandbakery.com Doré Bakery The Purveyor 505 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 330-1517 dorebakerydsm.com

Boutiques KIN Historic East Village 333 E Grand Avenue, Suite 106, Des Moines (515) 805-4616 kindsm.com

Breweries & Distilleries Big Grove Brewery 555 17th Street, Des Moines (515) 777-2337 biggrove.com

Confluence Brewing Company 1235 Thomas Beck Road, Des Moines (515) 285-9005 confluencebrewing.com Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company Historic Court District 309 Court Avenue, Des Moines (515) 282-2739 courtavebrew.com

Shopping Malls & Districts Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand, The Ingersoll & Grand Avenue, Des Moines theavenuesdsm.com Christkindlmarket Des Moines Principal Park 1 Line Drive, Des Moines (515) 250-6366 christkindlmarketdsm.com

Exile Brewing Company 1514 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 883-2337 exilebrewing.com

District at Prairie Trail, The 1345 SW Park Square Drive, Ankeny (515) 272-5143 thedistrictpt.com

HiFi Brew Lounge 103 S 11th Street, West Des Moines (515) 415-1085 hifibrewlounge.com

Historic East Village First — 7th blocks of E Grand Avenue & Walnut Street, Des Moines eastvillagedesmoines.com

Iowa Taproom, The Historic East Village 215 E 3rd Street, Suite 100, Des Moines (515) 243-0827 iowataproom.com

Historic Valley Junction 100-500 Blocks of 5th Street and surrounding side streets, West Des Moines (515) 222-3642 valleyjunction.com

Lua Brewing 1525 High Street, Des Moines (515) 630-5311 luabeer.com SingleSpeed Brewing Co 303 Scott Avenue, Des Moines (515) 214-1879 singlespeedbrewing.com/taprooms/ des-moines

Florists Boesen the Florist 3422 Beaver Avenue, Des Moines (515) 223-9500 boesen.com

Outlets of Des Moines 801 Bass Pro Drive, Altoona (515) 380-7400 outletsofdesmoines.com

Gateway Market & Café The Avenues 2002 Woodland Avenue, Des Moines (515) 243-1754 gatewaymarket.com

Scheels Jordan Creek Town Center 101 Jordan Creek Parkway, Building 4000, West Des Moines (515) 727-4065 scheels.com/store?StoreID=060

Furniture Bowery & Bash Greater Des Moines (312) 882-1891 boweryandbash.com Homemakers 10215 Douglas Avenue, Urbandale (515) 276-2772 homemakers.com Raccoon Forks Trading Company 621 Des Moines Street, Des Moines (515) 809-1715 raccoonforks.com Storey Kenworthy 1333 Ohio Street, Des Moines (515) 288-3243 storeykenworthy.com

Grocery Stores Gateway Market & Café The Avenues 2002 Woodland Avenue, Des Moines (515) 243-1754 gatewaymarket.com

ChaCha’s Hiland Bakery 3615 6th Avenue, Des Moines (515) 282-4059 chachashilandbakery.com

Raygun Historic East Village 505 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 288-1323 raygunsite.com

Gateway Market & Café The Avenues 2002 Woodland Avenue, Des Moines (515) 243-1754 gatewaymarket.com Gong Fu Tea Historic East Village 414 E 6th Street, Des Moines (515) 288-3388 gongfu-tea.com Happy Home Coffee Roasters 606 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 991-9158 happyhomecoffee.com Monarca Gourmet Paletas 9901 University Avenue, Suite 150, Clive (515) 414-8200 monarcapaletas.com Monarca Gourmet Paletas Waukee 2856 Grand Prairie Parkway, Suite 100, Waukee (515) 414-8200 monarcapaletas.com

Specialty Shops AllSpice Culinarium Historic East Village 400 E Locust Street, Suite 5, Des Moines (515) 868-0808 allspiceonline.com

Uptown Ankeny Association Uptown Ankeny 601 SW 3rd Street, Ankeny (515) 681-5347 uptownankeny.org

Animal Lifeline Thrift Shop 3304 SW 9th Street, Des Moines (515) 288-7197 animal-lifeline.com/thrift-shop

Spas & Massage

CIVPlus 11 Metro Locations (515) 321-0648 civplus.com

Lympha Spa & Massage 13137 University Avenue, Suite 100, Clive (515) 587-1911 lymphaspaandmassage.com

DSM Mercantile 3707 6th Avenue, Des Moines desmoinesmercantile.com

Pause West Des Moines 7120 University Avenue, Suite 104, West Des Moines pausestudio.com/westdesmoines

Fleet Feet Des Moines Historic East Village 521 E Locust Street, Des Moines (515) 323-3338 fleetfeetdesmoines.com

Specialty Food & Drink AllSpice Culinarium Historic East Village 400 E Locust Street, Suite 5, Des Moines (515) 868-0808 allspiceonline.com

Happy DSM Historic Valley Junction 234 5th Street, West Des Moines (515) 777-0090 happydsm.com Ichi Bike Historic East Village 311 E Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 274-0397 ichibike.com

Campbell’s Nutrition 4040 University Avenue, Des Moines (515) 277-6351 campbellsnutrition.com

C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

Ichi Bike Highland Park Garage 3705 6th Avenue, Des Moines (515) 630-3625 ichibike.com

Doré Bakery The Purveyor 505 East Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 330-1517 dorebakerydsm.com

Jordan Creek Town Center 101 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 440-6255 jordancreektowncenter.com Madison County Chamber of Commerce 73 Jefferson Street, Winterset (515) 462-1185 madisoncounty.com

Campbell’s Nutrition West 2749 100th Street, Urbandale (515) 331-1390 campbellsnutrition.com

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Tassel Ridge Winery 1681 220th Street, Leighton (641) 672-9463 tasselridge.com

Sweets & Snacks ChaCha’s Hiland Bakery 3615 6th Avenue, Des Moines (515) 282-4059 chachashilandbakery.com Chocolate Storybook 1000 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 226-9893 chocolatestory.com Chocolaterie Stam The Avenues 2814 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines (515) 282-9575 stamchocolate.com Chocolaterie Stam — Altoona 739 Bass Pro Drive Northwest, Suite 555, Altoona (515) 850-3054 stamchocolate.com Chocolaterie Stam — Ankeny 2405 SW White Birch Drive, Suite 107, Ankeny (515) 751-3505 stamchocolate.com Chocolaterie Stam — Jordan Creek Jordan Creek Mall 101 Jordan Creek Parkway, Suite 12180, West Des Moines (515) 282-9575 stamchocolate.com Chocolaterie Stam — Valley West Mall 1511 Valley West Mall, Suite 260, West Des Moines (515) 457-8464 stamchocolate.com Crème The Avenues 543 28th Street, Des Moines (515) 288-1050 cremecupcake.com Molly’s Cupcakes Historic East Village 215 E 3rd Street, Suite 101, Des Moines (515) 244-0778 mollysdsm.com Molly’s Frozen Historic East Village 322 E Court Avenue, Suite 105, Des Moines (515) 257-4127 mollysdsm.com Monarca Gourmet Paletas 9901 University Avenue, Suite 150, Clive (515) 414-8200 monarcapaletas.com

Monarca Gourmet Paletas Waukee 2856 Grand Prairie Parkway, Suite 100, Waukee (515) 414-8200 monarcapaletas.com One Sweet Kitchen Greater Des Moines (515) 290-8403 one-sweet-kitchen.com

Wineries Covered Bridges Winery 2207 170th Trail, Winterset (515) 729-9463 coveredbridgeswinery.com

Wedding

Jasper Winery 2400 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines (515) 282-9463 jasperwinery.com

Chocolate Storybook 1000 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 226-9893 chocolatestory.com

Tassel Ridge Winery 1681 220th Street, Leighton (641) 672-9463 tasselridge.com

Crème The Avenues 543 28th Street, Des Moines (515) 288-1050 cremecupcake.com DSM Dance Party DJs Greater Des Moines (515) 512-2003 dsmdancepartydjs.com Fairfield Inn & Suites — Des Moines Downtown 207 Crocker Street, Des Moines (515) 350-7997 fairfield.marriott.com

Visitor Resources Airports Des Moines International Airport 5800 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 256-5100 flydsm.com

Animal Boarding

FFA Enrichment Center 1055 SW Prairie Trail Parkway, Ankeny (515) 965-7372 ffaenrichmentcenter.com

Dog Days & Cat Naps 5665 NW Beaver Drive, Johnston (515) 276-0086 mydogdaysandcatnaps.com

Good Co. DSM, The Greater Des Moines (641) 420-1441 thegoodcodsm.com

Paws & Pints 6218 Willowmere Drive, Des Moines (515) 969-2275 pawsandpintsdsm.com

Iowa Glow Co. Greater Des Moines (515) 491-1848 iowaglowco.com

Auto/Truck/Van/RV Rental & Lease

Kirkwood Event Venue, The 400 Walnut Street, Des Moines (515) 822-2899 thekirkwooddsm.com Molly’s Cupcakes Historic East Village 215 E 3rd Street, Suite 101, Des Moines (515) 244-0778 mollysdsm.com LED Marquee 1077 Belle Mar Drive, West Des Moines (515) 988-0674 ledmarquee.com One Sweet Kitchen Greater Des Moines (515) 290-8403 one-sweet-kitchen.com River Center, The 340 SW 3rd Street, Des Moines (515) 330-1517 rivercenterdsm.com Shop DSM, The 901 Cherry Street, Des Moines (515) 822-1138 theshopdsm.com Toast The District at Prairie Trail 1345 SW Park Square Drive, Suite 300, Ankeny (515) 272-5071 toastankeny.com

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Greater Des Moines enterprise.com

Bankers Trust — East Branch 150 E Euclid Avenue, Des Moines (515) 245-2432 bankerstrust.com

Des Moines University 8025 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 271-1400 dmu.edu

Bankers Trust — Grimes Branch 110 SE Main Street, Grimes (515) 986-3606 bankerstrust.com

Drake University 2507 University Avenue, Des Moines (515) 271-2011 drake.edu

Bankers Trust — North Branch 3905 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines (515) 245-2440 bankerstrust.com

Faith Baptist Bible College 1900 NW 4th Street, Ankeny (515) 964-0601 faith.edu

Bankers Trust — Skywalk Branch 453 7th Street, Des Moines (515) 245-2919 bankerstrust.com

Grand View University 1200 Grandview Avenue, Des Moines (515) 263-2800 grandview.edu

Bankers Trust — South Branch 655 E Army Post Road, Des Moines (515) 245-2977 bankerstrust.com

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Polk County 1625 Adventureland Drive, Suite A, Altoona (515) 957-5760 extension.iastate.edu/polk

Bankers Trust — West Des Moines Branch 620 S 60th Street, West Des Moines (515) 248-1320 bankerstrust.com Bankers Trust — Windsor Heights Branch 7000 University Avenue, Windsor Heights (515) 271-1000 bankerstrust.com West Bank 3330 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 222-2300 westbankstrong.com West Bank — City Center 809 6th Avenue, Des Moines (515) 222-2385 westbankstrong.com

Banks

West Bank — East Branch 2440 E Euclid Avenue, Des Moines (515) 222-2390 westbankstrong.com

Bankers Trust 453 7th Street, Des Moines (515) 245-2863 bankerstrust.com

West Bank — Grand Branch 125 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines (515) 222-2384 westbankstrong.com

Bankers Trust — Altoona Branch 3820 8th Street Southwest, Altoona (515) 957-8989 bankerstrust.com

West Bank — South Branch 3920 SW 9th Street, Des Moines (515) 222-2374 westbankstrong.com

Bankers Trust — Ames Branch 3725 Stange Road, Ames (515) 233-4424 bankerstrust.com

West Bank — Waukee Branch 955 E Hickman Road, Waukee (515) 221-7740 westbankstrong.com

Bankers Trust — Ankeny Branch 1925 N Ankeny Boulevard, Ankeny (515) 965-2497 bankerstrust.com

City/Metro Bus

Bankers Trust — Clive Branch 11111 University Avenue, Clive (515) 222-2000 bankerstrust.com Bankers Trust — Downtown Branch 717 7th Street, Des Moines (515) 245-2426 bankerstrust.com

C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) 620 Cherry Street, Des Moines (515) 283-8100 ridedart.com

Education Des Moines Area Community College 2006 S Ankeny Boulevard, Ankeny (515) 964-6200 dmacc.edu

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Mercy College of Health Science 928 6th Avenue, Des Moines (515) 643-3180 mchs.edu Purdue University Global 4637 121st Street, Urbandale (515) 727-2100 purdueglobal.edu/campus-locations/ des-moines-iowa Simpson College 701 N C Street, Indianola (515) 961-6251 simpson.edu Upper Iowa University 5000 Westown Parkway, Suite 200, West Des Moines (515) 225-1800 uiu.edu Viterbo University 4949 Westown Parkway, Suite 195, West Des Moines (800) 235-2200 viterbo.edu

Energy Provider MidAmerican Energy Company 666 Grand Avenue, Des Moines (888) 427-5632 midamericanenergy.com/home

Hospitals & Medical Services Blank Children’s Hospital 1200 Pleasant Street, Des Moines (515) 241-5437 blankchildrens.org Iowa Lutheran Hospital 700 E University Avenue, Des Moines (515) 263-5612 unitypointhealth.org Iowa Methodist Medical Center 1200 Pleasant Street, Des Moines (515) 241-6212 unitypointhealth.org John Stoddard Cancer Center 1221 Pleasant Street, Des Moines (515) 241-4141 unitypoint.org/desmoines/johnstoddard-cancer-center-home.aspx

LifeServe Blood Center 5625 NW Johnston Drive, Johnston (800) 287-4903 lifeservebloodcenter.org

Pleasant Hill Public Library 5151 Maple Drive, Suite 2, Des Moines (515) 266-7815 pleasanthilliowa.org/Library

Methodist West Hospital 1660 60th Street, West Des Moines (515) 343-1000 unitypointhealth.org

Polk City Library 1500 W Broadway Street, Polk City (515) 984-6119 polkcityia.gov/library

Libraries

Urbandale Public Library 3520 86th Street, Urbandale (515) 278-3945 urbandalelibrary.org

Altoona Public Library 700 8th Street Southwest, Altoona (515) 967-3881 altoonalibrary.com Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library 1250 SW District Drive, Ankeny (515) 965-6460 ankenyiowa.gov/library Bondurant Community Library 104 2nd Street Northeast, Bondurant (515) 967-4790 bondurant.lib.ia.us Clive Public Library 1900 NW 114th Street, Clive (515) 453-2221 cityofclive.com/library Des Moines Public Library 1000 Grand Avenue, Des Moines (515) 283-4152 dmpl.org Grimes Public Library 200 NE Beaverbrooke Boulevard, Grimes (515) 986-3551 Grimeslibrary.org Indianola Public Library 207 N B Street, Indianola (515) 961-9418 indianolaiowa.gov/227/Library Johnston Public Library 6700 Merle Hay Road, Johnston (515) 278-5233 johnstonlibrary.com Norwalk Easter Public Library 1051 North Avenue, Norwalk (515) 981-0217 norwalklibrary.org

Downtown DSM USA 700 Locust Street, Suite 100, Des Moines (515) 286-4950 downtowndesmoines.com Greater Dallas County Development Alliance 7037 Vista Drive, West Des Moines (515) 987-2020 dallascounty-ia.org Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines 6751 Corporate Drive, Johnston (515) 270-8500 dsmhba.com

West Des Moines Public Library 4000 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines (515) 222-3400 wdmlibrary.org

Iowa Department of Natural Resources 6200 Park Avenue, Suite 200, Des Moines (515) 725-8200 iowadnr.gov

Metro Services Bravo Greater Des Moines 801 Grand Avenue, Suite 250, Des Moines (515) 243-0388 bravogreaterdesmoines.org Catch Des Moines Information Center Capital Square 400 Locust Street, Suite 265, Des Moines (515) 286-4960 catchdesmoines.com

Iowa Tourism Office 1963 Bell Avenue, Suite 200, Des Moines (515) 348-6200 traveliowa.com Krause Group 1459 Grand Avenue, Des Moines (888) 458-6646 krausegroup.com

Special Services Central States Mobility 5335 Merle Hay Road, Suite 2, Johnston (515) 528-2013 centralstatesmobility.com Des Moines Area Religious Council 100 Army Post Road, Des Moines (515) 277-6969 dmarcunited.org Iowa International Center 3839 Merle Hay Road, Suite 259, Des Moines (515) 282-8269 iowainternationalcenter.org

Tour & Sightseeing Companies CIT Signature Transportation 5242 NE 16th Street, Des Moines (515) 233-0286 citbus.com Iowa Architectural Foundation Capital Square 400 Locust Street, Suite 100, Des Moines (515) 244-1888 iowaarchfoundation.org Madison County Chamber of Commerce 73 Jefferson Street, Winterset (515) 462-1185 madisoncounty.com

Catch Des Moines Information Kiosk Des Moines International Airport 5800 Fleur Drive, Des Moines (515) 256-5575 catchdesmoines.com

Street Collective 506 E 6th Street, Suite 100, Des Moines (515) 288-8022 dsmstreetcollective.org

City of Des Moines — Traffic & Transportation Division Des Moines City Hall 400 Robert D. Ray Drive, Second Floor, Des Moines (515) 283-4973 dsm.city

Waste Solutions of Iowa 5554 NE 14th Street, Des Moines (515) 297-7284 wastesolutionsofiowa.com

UnityPoint Health — Des Moines 1200 Pleasant Street, Des Moines (515) 241-6161 unitypointhealth.org

Real Estate Services

Worship

Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines 6751 Corporate Drive, Johnston (515) 270-8500 dsmhba.com

Des Moines Area Religious Council 100 Army Post Road, Des Moines (515) 277-6969 dmarcunited.org

Des Moines Information Center Des Moines City Hall 400 Robert D Ray Drive, Des Moines (515) 283-4500 dsm.city

C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

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Urgent Care Clinics

VISIT

METRO MAPS

C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

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TO GRAY'S STATION

DOWNTOWN DES MOINES

SCAN FOR ONLINE MAPS

C AT C H D E S M O I N E S

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VISITORS GUIDE 2026

Des Moines’ Advertising Agency

A Steak Like No Other

A true inspired steakhouse.

Finest USDA Iowa raised beef.

Fully stocked bar with an award winning wine list, your favorite beers, and over 70 whiskey varieties.

IOWA BEEF IOWA BEEF STEAKHOUSE STEAKHOUSE S I N C E 1 9 8 2

1201 E Euclid Avenue • 262-1138 • iowabeefsteakhouse.com

Lunch: Monday–Friday 11am–2pm • Dinner: 7 days a week 5–10pm 68 C AT C H D E S M O I N E S VISITORS GUIDE 2025

Thank You C O R P O R AT E PA R T N E R S

CENTER

CULTIVATING OUR FUTURE

BY EXPERIENCING OUR PAST 11121 HICKMAN • URBANDALE • LHF.ORG