2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines by Des Moines Register

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30 Contents

FROM THE EDITOR

food ................................................ 6

From the dining scene to the arts and culture scene to the live music scene, the Des Moines metro area, we can all agree, is trending up.

nightlife ..................................... 19 entertainment ...................... 26 arts & culture ......................... 46 outdoors ................................... 54 shop .............................................. 61

Want proof? Spend some time flipping through this magazine, the 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines. To experience central Iowa to the fullest in the coming months, consider this your definitive guide. Fill your social calendar with 12 months of events, scratch together your bucket list of Des Moines restaurants to visit, map out your outdoor hiking/running/biking/paddling/camping plan for the summer. And there’s even more great local content at your fingertips. By downloading our LifeInAction app on your smartphone or tablet you can see pages of this magazine come to life. Just look for this logo in stories and advertisements, open the app and point the camera at the page (for more detailed instructions, see page 4). Then you’ll see the Ultimate Guide pages come to life. A food expert will tell you about the state of the dining scene. You’ll flip through photo highlights of all the past Blue Ribbon Bacon Festivals. An interactive golf course map will pop up on your screen, giving you information on each course. You can take a virtual photo tour of the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Even the little robot on the front cover will come alive.

Download the app. Flip through — and keep — this magazine. Then get out and experience all that central Iowa has to offer.

Tim Paluch Editor, Lifestyle & Entertainment, The Des Moines Register tpaluch@dmreg.com, 515-286-2564

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Editor Tim Paluch Designer Amanda Holladay Copy Editors Charles Flesher, Kimberly Isburg, Joe Hawkins, Darla Adair-Petroski Staff contributors Sarah Dose, Joe Lawler, Michael Morain, Tim Paluch Contributors Wini Moranville, Erin Randolph

The Des Moines Register Vice President, Content Rick Green Vice President, Advertising Mark Wurzer These materials are the sole and exclusive property of the Des Moines Register & Tribune Co. and are not to be used without its written permission. © 2013 Des Moines Register & Tribune Co.

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food

Des Moines

keeps it fresh Restaurateurs, local producers team up to bring new foods, unique ideas to dining scene

By Wini Moranville Special to the Register

‘F

resh” describes the Des Moines dining scene in more ways than one. While fresh food immediately comes to mind, today’s diners often seek fresh concepts on the plate and fresh experiences in the dining room,

too. Here are ways in which Des Moines restaurateurs are satisfying our quests for fresh.

FRESH FOOD Though fresh, local and seasonal are current culinary buzzwords, this movement actually began in the 1970s, when Alice Waters opened Chez Panisse restaurant in Berkeley, Calif. But let’s face it,

the creed was a slow train coming to Des Moines. The problem was often supply — after all, what good is a chef’s passion for in-season heirloom tomatoes, spring garlic, wild ramps and other fresh and fascinating locally grown produce if chefs can’t get their hands on it?

Sally Gran, left, holds a cabbage seedling as she talks with Kelly Foss, director of Des Moines’ Downtown Farmers Market, as they walk the fields of TableTop Farm last spring. REGISTER FILE PHOTO 6 • 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

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Thankfully, as more growers put down stakes in the land, more restaurants are able to take the fresh-and-local ethos not only to heart, but to plate as well. “We’ve gone from ‘just Larry’ to a proliferation of growers across the state,” says Paul Rottenberg, president of Orchestrate Hospitality, which manages Centro, Django, Zombie Burger, Gateway Market, Raccoon River, Mezzodi’s and other central Iowa dining destinations. The “Larry” Rottenberg is referring to is Larry Cleverley, a rock-star farmer who left a

high-powered sales career in New York City in 1996 to return to the family farm in Mingo, where he was among the first to introduce many central Iowa food lovers to the likes of nettles, lacinato kale and Savoyed-leaf spinach. But, as Rottenberg suggests, other growers of specialty ingredients are emerging on the scene to supply fresh-and-local flavors diners crave. “It helps that more and more young people are going into farming,” says Rottenberg, who offers Jordan Clausen’s Grade A

Suman Hoque, owner of HoQ restaurant, in the East Village. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines • 7

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food Gardens as an example. Clausen, former manager of Gateway Market’s produce department, recently turned to farming and currently supplies garlic, greens, potatoes, kale, onions and green beans to local restaurants such as Centro and The Cheese Shop of Des Moines. Other young growers include Sally and Luke Gran and Chris and Kim Corbin, 20something partners of TableTop Farm, which in 2013 entered its third growing season. They farm more than 40 different crops on 16 acres, supplying to HoQ, Alba, Fresh Cafe and Market, and other area restaurants. Young growers aren’t limited to those who farm acres and acreages; urban farmer Leon Johnson supplies herbs from his abundant Beaverdale garden to Baru 66, where he also works as a server. Until recently, however, it’s been hard for diners to keep track of which restaurateurs are truly bringing fresh, local food to their menus. Fortunately, social media makes it easy for the growers to update food lovers on what’s in season and which restaurants are serving their produce.

FRESH IDEAS Chain restaurants draw crowds often because of their predictability — night after night, they can be counted on to plate safe crowd-pleasers, with Alfredo sauce here, Cajun seasonings there, and mozzarella sticks, spinach-artichoke dip and Buffalo wings everywhere. One way some of our local restaurants have thrived is to run the other way, changing up the menu by the season, if not by the week or even the day, according to what produce is looking

freshest at the market. Better yet, our top chefs bring the goods to the table in ways that are anything but predictable. While prickly nettles might make some cooks scratch their heads, Andrew Meek whirs them with spring garlic into a vibrant green soup at Gramercy Tap. Sure, some chefs might look at rhubarb and see dessert, but Alba’s chef/owner Jason Simon brings pie plant to the savory plate, with pressed lamb collar with chard, English peas, nettles and rhubarb vinaigrette. Remember when lentils were mostly dedicated to the soup pot? Suman Hoque of HoQ restaurant brings them to the table in a dish of grass-fed lamb with organic beluga lentil and potato ragout, sauteed greens and homemade yogurt sauce. And really — how many times have you seen a sliced radish indifferently tossed into a green salad? Instead, Derek Eidson at Centro brings a dish of Sunstead Farms radishes with baby fennel and leeks to the table. While the aforementioned dishes might not be available when you visit, listen to your server and keep an eye on the features sheet for equally inventive plates.

FRESH EXPERIENCES Over the years, dining has emerged as a major form of entertainment. As such, restaurateurs often offer special events to switch up the mix, making a night in their venue as thrilling as a performance at the Civic Center. David Baruthio often showcases the talents and products of local chefs and food purveyors at his contemporary French restaurant, Baru 66. For example, he’s

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The Cleverley Farms stand at the Downtown Farmers Market. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

WANT FRESH? FOLLOW THE FARMERS One of the best ways to find out where to dine on fresh, locally grown and produced food is to follow the farmers and producers on Facebook and Twitter. There, they’ll often tell you exactly when particular venues are starring their wares. A few to follow: » Cleverley Farms: Find this grower of stunning heirloom and hard-to-find veggies on Facebook (Cleverley Farms) and Twitter: @dirtfarmerlarry. » Grade A Gardens: Jason Clauson, who grows wheatgrass, gourmet garlic and other specialty produce, is on Facebook (Grade A Gardens).

collaborated with Jennifer Strauss (chef/owner of Carefree Patisserie) for an all-dessert menu and Jimmy Zheng (chef/owner of Wasabi Chi) for an East-meetsWest menu. The restaurant has also produced special evenings featuring spices from Allspice Culinarium and La Quercia, the cured meats producer in Norwalk. One-off dinner events are also popular at downtown’s Proof. There, these meals have included a dinner devoted to wild game, a recreation of the food served in the film “Big Night” and an evening with food paired

» Leon Johnson: This urban farmer and grower of beautiful herbs is on Twitter: @leobejo. » Picket Fence Creamery: Look for this producer of ice cream, cheese products, milk and cream on Facebook (Picket Fence Creamery). » TableTop Farm: This grower of more than 40 crops is on Facebook (TableTop Farm). Also go to www.drakebuy freshbuylocal.org for a list of local restaurants committed to buying from local farmers and food producers.

exclusively with cocktails. A meal featuring tapas from the Basque region is slated for early summer. HoQ restaurant plans to partner with the local Buy Fresh Buy Local chapter and the Iowa Food Co-op for monthly prix-fixe menus one Sunday evening of each month. Owner Hoque views these informal, educational dinners as way for area farmers to connect with area diners over a meal. Head to restaurant websites to stay up to date on upcoming special events throughout the year.

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food

Local food

for your every mood

WHETHER YOU WANT ROMANTIC OR GREASY, HERE ARE 61 RESTAURANTS TO TRY IN CENTRAL IOWA By Wini Moranville Special to the Register

When you cover the dining scene here, the question inevitably comes up: “What’s the best restaurant in Des Moines?” It never fails to stump me. After all, the best restaurant is the one that’s best for what you crave (or need) at a given moment. When you’re driving home from downtown with just a few seconds to get something satisfying on the table before everyone in your home goes their separate ways, Ted’s Coney Island’s drive-thru bests most other spots. Another night, when you’re looking to finesse out-of-town clients downtown, count on 801 Chophouse to offer the sophistication you require. Dozens of restaurants hit sweet spots all along the casual-toupscale spectrum. Indeed, there are plenty of “bests” to explore in Des Moines. Here’s a list to start the conversation:

The Raygun bashed burger at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab in Des Moines comes with fried jalapenos, caramelized onion, bacon, guacamole and chipotle mayo, all topped with Monterey Jack cheese. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

BEST FOR FINESSING CLIENTS DOWNTOWN » 801 CHOPHOUSE: Though it’s a splurge, the upscale ambiance, polished service and top-notch meat make it one of the most

Use the Register’s LifeInAction app to watch food writer Wini Moranville explain the state of dining in central Iowa right now.

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reliable choices when entertaining clients. 801 Grand Ave.; 515-288-6000, www.801chop house.com

BEST FAMILY DINING » ZOMBIE BURGER + DRINK LAB: Kids love the burgers, hot dogs and goofy zombie theme. Mom and Dad like all that, plus the adult milkshakes. 300 E. Grand Ave.; 515-244-9292, www .zombieburgerdm.com » TED’S CONEY ISLAND: Falafel, hummus wraps, gyros, coneys and burgers make this a great choice when you’ve got a family of diverse eaters — from

vegetarians to meat-lovers. 3020 Ingersoll Ave.; 515-243-8947 » GUSTO PIZZA CO: Kids can get their cheese pizzas, while parents enjoy something with more adventuresome toppings, like red-pepper pesto and goat cheese. 1905 Ingersoll Ave.; 515-244-8786, www.gutso pizzaco.com » MI MEXICO: Find big, familyfriendly tables, a colorful atmosphere and kid-friendly combos, plus some of the best margaritas in town for the adults. 11407 Forest Ave., Clive; 515-222-6933, www.mimexicoclive.com

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food BEST PATIO DINING » WOODY’S SMOKE SHACK: Find great ribs and admirably smoky-and-moist pulled pork. Enjoy it all on one of the city’s best patios. 2511 Cottage Grove Ave.; 515-277-0005, www.woodys smokeshack.com » DOS RIOS: Settle into the chic, hacienda-esque furnishings and savor creative margaritas, cosmopolitan Latin cuisine and views of Court Avenue’s 19th-century streetscape. 316 Court Ave.; 515-282-2995, www.dosriosrest aurant.com

When dining on the Euro-style patio at Centro, choose from favorites like the pizza Napoletana, above, heaping plates of pasta and generously sized entrees. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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» CENTRO: In summer, pile onto the Euro-style patio for heaping plates of pasta, generously sized entrees and New York-style pizza. 1003 Locust St.; 515-248-1780, www.centrodesmoines.com

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» TALLY’S: Rise above it all! This rooftop patio offers a gracious spot to take in pastoral views of Beaverdale treetops. 2712 Beaver Ave.; 515-279-2067, www.tallysbeaverdale.com » WELLMAN’S PUB & ROOFTOP: Thoughtful landscaping and casual bar-grill food make this rooftop patio worth a spot in your alfresco dining rotation. 597 Market St., West Des Moines; 515-222-1100, www.well manspub.com

BEST FOR A LIGHT, BEFORE-THE-SHOW BITE » MIYABI 9: The sparklingly fresh sushi will make you feel wonderfully indulged, without weighing you down before the performance. 512 E. Grand Ave.; 515-288-8885, www.miy abi9.com » WASABI TAO: Here’s another fabulous spot for sushi, but also some terrific Chinese-fusion cuisine (try the Grand Marnier shrimp, for instance). 400 Walnut St.; 515-777-3636, search for Wasabi Tao on Facebook

Pastry chef Jeffrey Sills fills the display case with confections at Creme Cupcake in Des Moines, a great spot to go when you’re all dressed up. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

» RAW BAR AT SPLASH: Make a light-yetstylish meal from this venue’s appetizers, cheese, charcuterie, salads, oysters and crab legs, then walk less than a block to the Civic Center. 303 Locust St.; 515-244-5686, www.splash-seafood.com

BEST LOUNGES WHEN YOU’RE ALL DRESSED UP » CREME CUPCAKE: Sip exquisite cocktails, thoughtfully paired with homemade desserts, at this stylish, off-Ingersoll venue. 543 28th St.; 515-288-1050, www.cremecupcake.com » CODA LOUNGE AT THE RENAISSANCE SAVERY HOTEL: Settle into the plush seating at this dashingly contemporary, boldly colored spot. P.S.: The kitchen stays open until midnight. 401 Locust St.; 515-244-2151, search for Coda lounge on Facebook

BEST FOR A HOT DATE » LUCCA: A sleek East-Village atmosphere, well-dressed clientele and the Tuscan-inspired food will all flatter the occasion. 420 E. Locust St.; 515-243-1115, www.luccarestaurant.net » CAFE DI SCALA: When you’re in seduction mode, take your date to Des Moines’s sexiest restaurant, where brazenly romantic furnishings

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food Blood orange upside-down cake with blood orange marmalade and whipped creme fraiche from Alba, a restaurant in the East Village best known for its chef-driven, inventive cuisine by Jason Simon. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

takes on burgers. 524 E. Sixth St.; 515-244-0261, www.albadsm.com » HOQ: The farm-to-table restaurant features grass-fed beef and lamb, pasture-raised chicken and duck and an abundance of locally grown produce presented in globally inspired ways. 303 E. Fifth St.; 515-244-1213, www.hoqtable .com » PROOF: Enjoy Chef Sean Wilson’s progressive Midwestern cuisine and hand-crafted cocktails with views of the Des Moines skyline sparkling brilliantly into the night. 1301 Locust St.; 515-244-0655, www.proofrestaurant.com

BEST FOR ANY-NIGHT CASUAL DINING

(candelabras, intimate marble-top tables), will help do the trick. 644 18th St.; 515-244-1353, www.cafediscala.com

BEST FOR PLEASING EVERYONE » LATIN KING: Steaks and red-sauced pasta please lovers of Italian-American food, while shrimp Angelo and chicken spiedini please those looking for something more refined. 2200 Hubbell Ave.; 515-266-4466, www.tursis latinking.com » SAM & GABE’S: Score some handcrafted takes on Italian-American favorites, but also look for sophisticated duck and seafood dishes on the specials list. 8631 Hickman Road, Urbandale; 515-271-9200, www.samand gabes.com » CHRISTOPHER’S: Whether you want spaghetti and meatballs or something more up-todate, like olive chicken, this classic Beaverdale venue gets it right. Enjoy great pizza in the lounge, too. 2816 Beaver Ave.; 515-274-3694, www.chrisophersdsm.com

Best for a Trip Back in Time » CHUCK’S: Enjoy some of our city’s best thin-crust pizza as well as Italian-American fare in an atmosphere that combines old-school charm with contemporary colors. 3610 Sixth Ave.; 515-244-4104, www.chucksdesmoines .com » GINO’S: Find the quintessential mid-century 14 • 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

steakhouse, complete with aqua swivel chairs in the lounge. Go here for steaks, fried chicken and zesty red-sauced specialties. 2809 Sixth Ave; 515-282-4029 » JESSE’S EMBERS: Captain’s chairs, a crowded bar, steaks sizzling on the open pit — yes, all the hallmarks of a 1960s steak house are here, including a gregarious owner working the room. 3301 Ingersoll Ave.; 515-255-6011, www.theoriginaljessesembers.com » TROSTEL’S GREENBRIAR: Revel to an 1980s kind of elegance, with white tablecloths and dark-wood furnishings. Though known for steaks and prime rib, Chef Troy Trostel also nudges diners in contemporary directions (roasted citrus green tea chicken, anyone?). 5810 Merle Hay Road, Johnston; 515-253-0124, www.greenbriartrostels.com

BEST CHEF-DRIVEN, INVENTIVE, CONTEMPORARY CUISINE » BARU 66: French-born chef/owner David Baruthio ranks as the only current chef in town to receive two five-star reviews from The Des Moines Register. Find imaginative multiingredient cuisine, prepared with painstakingly purveyed ingredients. 6587 University Ave., Windsor Heights; 515-277-6627, www.baru66 .com » ALBA: Jason Simon’s vegetarian cooking is unrivaled, and even his meat-centered dishes sparkle with colorful, precise uses of produce. Look for fun casual food, too, including fresh

» MANDARIN GRILL: Those who favor well-crafted, sane-portioned food over all-youcan-eat buffets will appreciate the freshly sizzled-up Chinese and Korean dishes, as well as the artful sushi. 1250 128th St., Clive; 515-327-5988, www.mandaringrilland sushibar.com » ROYAL MILE: Find hearty, honest pub food and a warm sense of well-being at this exceedingly true-to-England spot. 210 Fourth St.; 515-280-3771, www.royalmilebar.com » TROSTEL’S DISH: With choices like beef and Boursin sliders, cracker-crust pizzas and duck quesadilla, small plates can add up to big-time satisfaction here. 12851 University Ave., Clive; 515-221-3474, www.dishtrostels .com » FLYING MANGO: Expect “barbecue-plus” — not only top-notch brisket, ribs, chicken and pork, but good Southern specialties, all in a handsome, full-service restaurant. 4345 Hickman Road; 515-255-4111, www.flying mango.com » BISTRO MONTAGE: Sure, you can splurge on fine dining here, but you’ll also find moderately priced fare, from crepes to a bistro burger with truffle mayo. 2724 Ingersoll Ave.; 515-557-1924, www.bistromontage.com

BEST FOR NO CORKAGE FEES » CAFE FUZION: This one is always a good bet to head to with a group of friends — especially those who enjoy Southeast Asian food and don’t mind a casual, make-do atmosphere. 1240 E. 14th St.; 515-262-8488

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» DJANGO: This downtown hot spot gets high marks for taking the intimidation factor out of French dining. Of course, waiving the corkage fee certainly helps everyone feel right at home. 210 10th St.; 515-288-0268, www.djangodesmoines.com

updates on American bar-grill food at this always-buzzing two-story restaurant, where the huge storefront windows look out over the revitalized Western Gateway cityscape. 1312 Locust St.; 515-243-1397, www.americana dsm.com

» SPLASH: In both the restaurant and the raw bar, you can order jetfresh seafood and skip the corkage fee. 303 Locust St.; 515-244-5686, www.splash-seafood.com

» LOUIE’S WINE DIVE: “Dive” is a playful misnomer — while the vibe is casual, the food is thoughtful, with fun flatbreads and bruschetta and hearty entrees, such as four-pork gnocchi and lobster shrimp-and-mac. 4040 University Ave.; 515-777-3416, www.louieswinedive.com

BEST SEE-AND-BE-SEEN RESTAURANTS » STAR BAR: Enjoy polished bar food and a crowd that’s more about martinis than Jagerbombs. 2811 Ingersoll Ave.; 515-244-0790, search for Star Bar on Facebook » AMERICANA: Look for filling

» GRAMERCY TAP: Keep an eye on this party-size restaurant: Well-known chef Andrew Meek has recently revitalized the kitchen, and a Walnut Street patio is planned. Enjoy a late-night menu

The Flying Mango’s Memphis-style ribs, with they serve along with other smoked meats and Southern sides. REGISTER FILE PHOTO until midnight. 400 Walnut St.; 515-288-9606, www.gramercy tap.com

“join-the-party” tables help. 101 Fourth St.; 515-288-2520, www.hessenhaus.com

» HESSEN HAUS: I always tend to make friends at this rollicking beer hall — the big, long,

BEST LATE-NIGHT DINING » FONG’S: If it’s party central you

2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines • 15

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food seek, head to this quirky spot, where Court Avenue revelers satisfy late-night munchies with China-meets-Italy takes on pizza. 223 Fourth St.; 515-323-3333, www.fongspizza.com » NOAH’S ARK: If it’s peace and quiet you seek, settle into a cozy booth for pizza or pasta and a chance to reconnect with your partner at the end of a long day. 2400 Ingersoll Ave.; 515-2882246, www.noahsarkdes moines.com

BEST PLACE TO EAT WITH AN EYE ON THE GAME The JETHRO’S family of restaurants manage to pull off a casual, sports-bar-like groove while keeping the food standards high. The restaurants specialize in boldly flavored smoked meats (plus steaks in Altoona and at the Drake location and Cajun/Creole creations at the West Des Moines outpost). Also, don’t miss the wings and hand-battered, white-cheddar-filled fried cheese. www.jethrosdesmoines.com » JETHRO’S BARBECUE: 3100 Forest Ave.; 515-279-3300 » JETHRO’S JAMBALAYA: 9350 University Ave., West Des Moines; 515-987-8686 » JETHRO AND JAKE’S SMOKEHOUSE STEAKS: 2601 Adventureland Drive, Altoona; 515-957-9727 » JETHRO’S BBQ N’ LAKEHOUSE: 1425 S.W. Vintage Parkway, Ankeny; 515-289-4444

BEST PLACES TO LUNCH WITH THE LADIES » THE ART CENTER RESTAURANT: Enjoy thoughtful salads, soups, sandwiches and pasta, many of which feature grains, legumes and veggies in up-to-date ways. 4700 Grand Ave.; 515-271-0332, www.desmoinesart

center.org » GROUNDS FOR CELEBRATION: Enjoy a limited but thoughtful selection of quiche, salads, sandwiches and pasta, generally plated with lovely fresh-fruit flourishes. Three locations: 6601 University Ave., Windsor Heights, 515-271-5022; 2709 Beaver Ave., 515-255-4863; and 50th and Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines; 515-279-6812; www.groundsforcelebration.com » LUNA BISTRO: Thoughtful ingredients — such as pork cheeks and duck confit — offer inspired detours in the salads, sandwiches and pastas. 621 Des Moines St.; 515-288-9849, www.lunabistro .com » WINE EXPERIENCE AT JORDAN CREEK: Toast your latest purchase with one of the expertly chosen wines here; then, enjoy handsomely plated lunchtime fare. Located in the Younkers store at 101 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines; 515-457-8577, www.wineexperiencejc.com

BEST PLACE TO GET YOUR VEGETABLES » A DONG: You can always count on Vietnamese kitchens to bring windfalls of fresh veggies in whatever they serve. At A Dong, especially keep an eye out for Yu-Choy, a pleasingly bitter, nutrient-packed leafy green. 1511 High St.; 515-284-5632

Those up to an eating challenge can try to tackle the 5-pound Adam Emmenecker sandwich, which is available at all four of the local chain’s restaurants. REGISTER FILE PHOTO 515-965-2099, www.noodlezoo .com

BEST PLACE FOR A SANDWICH » MANHATTAN DELI: A reliable choice for one-of-a-kind deli-style sandwiches and terrific homemade soups. Try the chicken noodle when you’re under the weather. 3705 Ingersoll Ave., 515-2741208, www.hagarsmanhattan deli.com » PHO 888: A super-casual spot to score irresistible Vietnamese Banh Mi (those submarine-style sandwiches). 1521 Second Ave.; 515-288-1595, www.pho888.com

» FAWN’S ASIAN CUISINE The Laos-born owner serves great Chinese and Southeast Asian food, often with an abundance of fresh vegetables. 1107 E. University Ave; 515-266-0664

» SOUTH UNION BREAD CAFE: Serving he-man-sized sandwiches on pleasantly tuggy homemade bread, this restaurant remains one of the most beloved venues in Chef George Formaro’s empire. 1007 Locust St.; 515-248-1782, www.southunion breadcafe.com

» NOODLE ZOO: These contemporary, colorful spots are known for loading up veggies in their noodle bowls, salads and sandwiches 601 E. Locust St.; 515-282-6281 and 2785 N. Ankeny Blvd., Ankeny;

» BIG CITY BURGERS: Made with hormone- and antibiotic-free beef, the signature burgers come with an “anything goes” variety of toppings — from fried prosciutto or goat cheese, to chick peas, edamame or a fried egg. 400

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Locust St., Suite 195; 515-537-8433, www.bigcity burgersandgreens.com » TACOS MARIANAS: While they’re not exactly sandwiches, the handheld tacos at this casual, mucho-cute spot are beautifully fresh and flavor-charged. 1200 13th St.; 515-288-1499

BEST PLACE TO TRY SOMETHING NEW » MI PATRIA: Get a taste of Ecuador here. Newbies should start with anything that has the luscious hornados (roasted pork) and also try the Tortilla de Yucca. 1410 22nd St., West Des Moines; 515-222-2755 » COOL BASIL: Break your pad Thai habit! Order the herbal crispy catfish or sweet basil special from the menu’s chef’s specialties page. 8801 University Ave., No. 22, Clive; 515-225-8111, www.coolbasil iowa.com » WASABI CHI: Even hardcore sushi traditionalists should try the creative, contemporary rolls here, such as the spicy girl roll, with its luscious play of crisp calamari and slithery mango and avocado. 5418 Douglas Ave.; 515-528-8246, www.wasabichicuisine.com

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3 chefs tell us where they eat (Other than their own dining establishment) — Erin Randolph

The chef: Andrew Meek His restaurant: The Gramercy Tap, 400 Walnut St., 288-9606 1. Wasabi Tao (400 Walnut St. 777-3636) and Wasabi Chi (5418 Douglas Ave.; 528-8208) Why: “This is the best sushi in the state.” 2. Cafe di Scala, 644 18th St.; 244-1353 Why: “The best for homemade pasta and romantic atmosphere.” 3. Mr. Bibbs, 2705 Sixth Ave.; 243-0929 Why: “Best pork tenderloin and onion rings in Des Moines.” 4. Smokey D’s, 5505 N.W. Second St.; 243-2747 Why: “My favorite barbecue outside of my backyard.” 5. Gusto Pizza, 1905 Ingersoll Ave.; 244-8786

Gramercy Tap head chef Andrew Meek. MICHAEL WATSON/SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER

Why: “The most unique combinations with great local ingredients.”

2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines • 17

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food

Anthony Lemmo, head chef at Cafe Di Scala, Gusto Pizza and Hotshots. MICHAEL WATSON/SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER

Tacopacolypse chef Sam Auen. MICHAEL WATSON/SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER

The chef: Anthony Lemmo

The chef: Sam Auen

His restaurants: Owner/chef of Cafe di Scala, Gusto Pizza Co., Host Catering and Hotshots

His restaurant: Chef and owner of Tacopocalypse, located inside The Point (8410 Hickman Road, Clive), and at various central Iowa special events.

1. Noah‘s Ark Pizza, 2400 Ingersoll Ave.; 288-2250 Why: “A creamy Italian salad and a stiff cocktail at the sunken bar is an experience that is both priceless and timeless. My Grandpa Frank helped his brother, Noah, open this landmark nearly 70 years ago. It’s indisputable that they know a thing or two about running a family business and pizza.”

1. Cafe Di Scala, 644 18th St.; 244-1353

2. El Salvador del Mundo, 2901 Sixth Ave.; 244-5224

2. Jersey Guys Pizza, 2713 Beaver Ave.; 277-6377

Why: “A favorite Saturday or Sunday retreat for me to travel to. There are always great aromas, soccer games and Latino families filling this special place. Their pupusas and sweet corn tamales always pull me back sooner than later.” 3. A Dong, 1511 High St.; 284-5632 Why: “Admittedly, I always go for the same half dozen or so menu items, as any one of them makes me feel wonderful. I keep a quart of their veggie pho in the freezer in case of an emergency or for when I’m craving it on a Monday when they are closed.” 4. Local chef-driven restaurants Why: “There are too many places to list but it would be an injustice not to mention the hands that have shaped the scene in more recent years: Phil Shires, Joe McConville, Jerry Talerico, Enosh Kelly, George Formaro, Jay Wang, Nick Ellingsworth, Mike Yamamoto, the Logsdon brothers, David Baruthio, Sean Wilson, Jason Simon, Nic Gonwa, Derek Eidson, Jesus Ojeda and Andrew Meek are a few that come to mind.”

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Why: “This is my go-to place for special nights, solo wine dinner outings and, of course, Beatles brunch. Phil Shires makes some of the best specials (and mussels) in town. I’ve never ever a bad meal here.”

Why: “Solid cheesesteak that brings me back to my days in Philly.” 3. Taqueria Sonora, 800 First St., West Des Moines; 277-7071 Why: “When I’m not making tacos I take a trip to Sonora for their wide variety of tacos, including my favorites the baja fish and el pastor.” 4. Vietnam Cafe, Merle Hay Mall, 3800 Merle Hay Road; 252-8713 Why: “Who would think the best banh mi in town would be in a mall food court? Merle Hay Mall is the place for my favorite Vietnamese sandwich, and a great bowl of pho.” 5. Pho 888, 1521 Second Ave.; 288-1595 Why: “Hands-down my favorite pho in town. I go for the No. 21 with its deep, rich broth, rare beef, tendon and meatball.”

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nightlife

Night on the town

Hundreds of neighborhood dives, dance clubs, sport-watching spots and cocktail bars dot the central Iowa nightlife landscape. Here’s a look at a few of the most popular nightlife ‘districts’ around town. By Erin Randolph Special to the Register

DOWNTOWN: COURT AVENUE DISTRICT The Saddlery Building, once the site of a successful saddle, harness and leather works shop, is now home to the Court Avenue Brewing Co. (309 Court Ave.), a popular local brewery and restaurant. The self-proclaimed “original sports bar” of Des Moines, Johnny’s Hall of Fame (302 Court Ave.), brings in sports fans to its revamped space with a full food menu and drink specials

in a historical building along Court Avenue. Newcomer to the block, Joker’s (216 Court Ave.), brings weekly comedy to downtown as well as Vegas-style VIP bottle service, replete with sparklers and leather couches. Mickey’s Irish Pub (206 Third St.) is an Irish pub that features a huge outdoor patio with its own fully stocked bar. For lovers of scotch and hard-to-find beer options, spend time at the Royal Mile (210 Fourth St.), a British-style pub with a Gothic-style bar, or venture upstairs to the

A group prepares to take some shots (some wearing vintage helmets) at Fong’s Pizza. REGISTER FILE PHOTO 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines • 19

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nightlife Red Monk, which serves Belgian monk-brewed beers and also features a killer jukebox. For a small, low-key bar with an impressive selection of martinis, imported beers and rotating artwork from local artists, visit The Lift (222 Fourth St.). Rotating flavors of late-night slices make Fong’s Pizza (223 Fourth St.) an easy mark on the downtown to-do list. Adding to the unmatched flair of the eatery are its equally interesting tiki drinks served in unique glassware and sometimes requiring its drinkers to wear vintage motorcycle helmets.

SIGNATURE DRINK: COTTON CANDY MARTINI Find it: Urban Grill, 3651 86th St., Urbandale Info: 278-1016, www.theurbangrillrestaurant.com Cost: $7 The Urban Grill is home to a martini menu that seems intent on tapping into its patrons guilty pleasures, spanning from the chocolate-covered pretzel martini to the red velvet cake martini, but the overwhelming favorite is the cotton candy martini. Pinnacle cotton candy vodka, Kinky Liqueur and a secret fruit juice mixture is vigorously shaken and then poured over a generous tuft of cotton candy that’s been placed in a chilled martini glass. The spun sugar dissolves into a cloudy, sippable cocktail with a mild cotton candy flavor. Use the LifeInAction app to see how an Urban Grill cotton candy martini is made, and hear the story behind the drink, in a special video.

Vaudeville Mews (212 Fourth St.) is a purveyor of live music, both local and touring bands, and its neighboring alleyway PBR Bar serves up an outside option for warm weather months. For vegan ZACH BOYDEN-HOLMES/THE REGISTER

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SIGNATURE DRINK: SAKETINI Find it: Taki, 2677 N.W. 86th St., Urbandale Info: 331-3030; www.takisteakhouse.com Cost: $7.50 It’s believed that a saketini was first served in the 1964 world’s fair. In Des Moines, it’s served at Taki, a steakhouse with teppanyaki cooking, as well as an extensive sushi menu. Saketini, like the standard martini, can be made with either gin or vodka. The saketini at Taki is made with sake, an alcoholic beverage of Japanese origin made from fermented rice, as well as vodka and cucumber slices. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

food options, fresh-roasted coffee, beer and free Wi-Fi, Java Joes (214 Fourth St.) is a hip, comfortable choice located just a short jaunt from Court Avenue. Another newcomer to the block, The Venue, offers live entertainment in the former People’s Court location (216 Court Ave.), while its

partner and neighboring bar, The Exchange, offers unique drink specials.

DOWNTOWN: EAST VILLAGE Known for its mojitos, American contemporary bar and restaurant The Continental (428 E. Locust

St.) features live jazz and blues every Friday and Saturday night. Locust Tap (434 E. Locust St.), on the other hand, is one of the oldest bars in Des Moines — it still features its original tin ceiling, tiles and plaster walls. But it’s that dive-bar charm that fills the Locust Tap’s seats with young, hip regulars.

Pulling in national and regional concerts such as Sleigh Bells, Stone Sour and Girl Talk, Wooly’s (504 E. Locust St.) has quickly become a premier music venue in the state. The Underground (500 E. Locust) is a basement bar that often features live music. There, give the black-and-blue special a try: a $5 shot of Jack Daniel’s and 16-ounce pint of beer. The Beechwood (416 E. Walnut St.) is a popular dive all the time, but it really packs in people during the monthly Pressure Drop, a sweaty basement, all vintage 45s dance party featuring soul, funk, reggae and rhythm and blues. Quinton’s (506 E. Grand Ave.) is a popular after-work locale for downtown professionals, in part due to the 23-ounce beers that are $3-$4. Wednesday are trivia

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nightlife

A pool player sizes up a shot at the Locust Tap. One of Des Moines’ oldest bars, it still features its original tin ceiling. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS nights, when know-it-alls can win door prizes. DJ lounge and martini bar Lime Lounge (435 E. Grand Ave.) has the feel of a big city club. VIP or bottle service reservations are accepted. Drinks are always a double at the Blazing Saddle (416 E. Fifth St.), the city’s oldest gay bar. Stop by Zombie Burger + Drink Lab (300 E. Grand Ave.) for a spiked milkshake or a late-night zombie-themed burger.

DOWNTOWN: WESTERN GATEWAY

The Blazing Saddle on a Friday night.

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A converted warehouse is now home to Exile Brewing Co. (1514 Walnut St.), a microbrewery and restaurant that specializes in German-style brews and a menu

filled with American food with international flourishes. A rock ’n’ roll bar and all that it implies, the Gas Lamp (1501 Grand Ave.) is a live music venue with an affinity for Schlitz, marked with the “Everybody Gets the Schlitz” hour every day from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. In addition to the famed make-your-own-grilled cheese bar during brunch at Americana (1312 Locust St.) is a fully stocked bar with a panoramic view of the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. French fare rules at Django (210 10th St.), where the bartenders and servers have unparalleled knowledge of the impressive selection of wine, beer and liquor. Visit during happy hour when select specialty

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SIGNATURE DRINK: TANGERMEISTER Find it: High Life Lounge, 200 S.W. Second St. Info: 280-1965; www.thehighlifelounge.com Cost: $4 Though the “Champagne of Beers” outsells the next most popular beer two-to-one at the High Life Lounge, it’s the Tangermeister that’s truly original. Tang, the fruit drink that accompanied astronauts to space in the ’60s, is served in a cup with an accompanying shot glass filled with Jagermeister, a murky German liqueur. The shot glass is dropped in the cup and either chugged or allowed to settle, and then chugged. Separately the ingredients are barely palatable, but the combined result is surprisingly delicious.

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nightlife cocktails are just $5. Centro (1003 Locust St.) bustles with energy as though it belongs in a much larger city. One of its signature drinks is the limoncello, which is made in-house. Raccoon River Brewing Company (200 10th St.) has handcrafted ales in addition to a full menu and an elevated pool hall with five tables and a view of the restaurant below.

INGERSOLL AVENUE

Matt Woods plays at the Greenwood Lounge on Ingersoll Avenue. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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Strong drinks and dog murals create the comfortable dive-bar atmosphere at The Greenwood Lounge (3707 Ingersoll Ave.), which was once named one of Esquire’s America’s Best Bars. GT Lounge (3013 Ingersoll Ave.) is a dimly lit, biker-themed bar with a

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popular jukebox. Part trendy nightspot and part casual after-work hangout Star Bar (2811 Ingersoll Ave.) has 12 beers on tap and more than 20 in bottles.

SIGNATURE DRINK: FARMER JOHN’S MULTI-GRAIN ALE

In the running for one of Des Moines’ oldest bars, Alpine Tap Room (2720 Ingersoll Ave.) has “Simpson’s” pinball and a legendary old-school jukebox. A large game room with a full-size shuffleboard table awaits patrons at Zimm’s (3124 Ingersoll Ave.); just as popular is the patio that overlooks Ingersoll Avenue. A longtime Ingersoll fixture, Wellman’s Pub (2920 Ingersoll Ave.) has loyalties to the Cubs and a large outdoor patio. Creme Cupcake (543 28th St.) is a place of gourmet cupcakes; however, at night it transforms into a candle-lit dessert lounge with classic cocktails and coffees for the perfect date nightcap.

86TH STREET Pour your own pints at Tapz Pub, where select tables feature built-in kegs. Even better, the tables can be reserved, so there’s no need to show up hours early to watch the big game on the big screens. The Point (8410 Hickman Road, Clive) offers regular live music and a four-season patio; in addition,

Find it: Confluence, 1235 Thomas Beck Road Info: 285-9005; confluencebrewing.com Cost: $4.50 per pint This refreshing, blonde ale was created by a third-generation farm boy, which makes it an appropriate microbrew to come out of one of Des Moines’ newest microbreweries. The beer is lightly flavored with English East Kent Goldings hops, which were chosen for their subtle, earthy qualities. The result is a light, easy-drinking ale with a clean finish.

Tacopocalpyse serves up some of the most creative tacos, burritos and nachos that Des Moines has to offer. Sazz (1871 86th St., Clive) is one of the few places in central Iowa where one can still procure a $5 pitcher of domestic beer during happy hour. For a martini, visit

Ducktail Lounge (1809 86th St., Clive), where the well vodka is Absolut. Break the ice with your date by playing one of the many board games available for use next to the fireplace. Mickey’s (1800 86th St., Clive) throws one of the largest tent parties in Iowa every St. Patrick’s Day, and keeps the energy alive year-round. For those willing to venture off the 86th Street path, 515 Brewing Company (7700 University Ave., Clive) recently opened down the street, offering micro-brewed beers in a modern, stylish taproom with a multitude of nearby delivery menus.

WEST GLEN

Ryan Rost, Bailey Forrest, Dave Ropte and Brandon Criger are the owners of 515 Brewing Company in Clive. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

Drew Carey, David Alan Grier and Dane Cook have all graced the stage of the Funny Bone Comedy Club (560 S. Prairie View Drive, West Des Moines). Watch the calendar and don’t miss out on the next big comedians

visiting this club, which offers both a full menu and a full bar. Get an unparalleled view of West Des Moines while sipping specialty cocktails from the rooftop patio at Wellman’s Pub & Rooftop in West Glen (597 Market St., West Des Moines). Tonic (5535 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines) serves more than 40 single malts, wine and Champagne in an upscale atmosphere. It also features a downstairs bar with patio and mezzanine with a separate bar and patio. Blue Moon Dueling Piano Bar and Restaurant (5485 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines) features national dueling piano acts and gigantic drinks served in fish bowls. Cabaret West Glen (560 S. Prairie View Drive, West Des Moines) has a four-season patio, party rooms and a VIP reward program that offers members cash back just for patronizing the bar.

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entertainment The Avett Brothers headline the main stage at the 80/35 Music Festival in 2012. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS

12 months of

great events

ens of thousands of dancing bodies in downtown Des Moines in July. Thousands of fanatical bacon-lovers on the Iowa State Fairgrounds filling their bellies in February.

A million-plus back on those fairgrounds in August for the butter cow and things on sticks for the Iowa State Fair. Oh, and a world-class arts festival, a Midwestern version of Oktoberfest, gay pride events, street parties and much, much more. Bottom line: The days of “There’s nothing to do in Des Moines” are long gone. Read on to find dozens of the biggest and best events, music and performance venues, local sports teams and more.

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Use the Register’s LifeInAction app to see a quick preview of the next year of events in central Iowa.

Break out your calendars Time to start planning your year of fun in central Iowa. Here’s a good start. Grimes Governor’s Day

By Erin Randolph Brianna Salwey, left, Danielle Meyers and Kaitlyn Timbo sample wine during Winefest. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

Special to the Register

Winefest Winefest Des Moines is the annual festival celebrating the food and wine industry, featuring wine tasting and seminars, special entertainment and nationally renowned vintners. Events run June 1-8 and include the YP-heavy Sips & the City on June 7. Various locations; www.winefestdes moines.com

Held entirely within the Governor’s District of Grimes, Governor’s Days include concerts, parades, a carnival, car shows and more. Admission is free. June 6-8, 2013; Governor’s District, Grimes; www.governorsdays.com

Capital City Pride The annual GLBT pride celebration, held the second weekend in June CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

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entertainment

SUMMER EVENT: Lazerfest

ach May at the Central Iowa Expo in Boone, thousands of hard rock and metal fans line up to hear more than a dozen bands alternate on two main stages, so there’s never a break in the music. Lazerfest, an all-ages festival created by the Lazer 103.3 radio station, is a day in the sun (and sometimes, the mud) filled with headline-worthy rockers.

The 2013 Lazerfest was held May 10 and included Seattle rock band Alice in Chains as well as 1990s English rock band Bush, fronted by Gavin Rossdale, the husband of Gwen Stefani. Previous festivals have also included the “Godfather of Shock Rock” Alice Lazerfest Cooper, nu-metal band Papa Roach, horror metal artist Rob Zombie, country-rock-rap artist Kid Rock, alternative WHEN: Held each May rock band Stone Temple Pilots and nu-metal band Korn.

Slash performs on the Meskwaki Stage at Lazerfest in 2012. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

In addition to regular admission ticketing, Lazerfest offers VIP Packages, which include a preferred viewing area with risers, parking, a steak dinner, five drink tickets and preferred restroom access, all considered luxuries at all-day outdoor music festivals. The only perk not included is backstage access, which is reserved for radio contest winners of Lazer 103.3.

WHERE: Central Iowa Expo, in Boone MORE INFO: Go to www.lazer fest.lazer1033.com

The crowd gets into it for Rev Theory during a previous Lazerfest at the Indianola Balloon Grounds in Indianola. REGISTER FILE PHOTO 28 • 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

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typepad.com/johnstongreendays

every year, recognizes the importance of gay culture in the Midwest with a street party, parade, musical performances and community exhibitors. You’ll also see the finals of the Pride Idol singing competition. June 8-9, 2013; East Village; www.capitalcitypride.org

Des Moines Arts Festival

Johnston Green Days This annual celebration was started in 1996 to focus on Johnston’s agricultural and horticultural tradition. It’s grown to include activities such as a parade, carnival, children’s activities, entertainment, a rib cook-off contest, a talent contest, classic car show and a 5K run/walk. June 13-16, 2013; Johnston Public Library; www.johnstonchamber.

The Des Moines Arts Festival traces its beginnings back to 1958. Over the years the festival has been recognized by a number of associations and trade magazines, including winning the Grand Pinnacale Award in 2010. The festival celebrates visual and performing arts, and includes live music and the Interrobang Film Festival. Find works from local artists as well as internationally known talents. June 28-30, 2013; Western Gateway Park; www.desmoinesartsfestival.org

ArtFest Midwest On the same weekend as the Des Moines Arts Festival, ArtFest Midwest will include more than

Denise Jone of Ankeny waves her American flag at the Yankee Doodle Pops concert in 2012. REGISTER FILE PHOTO 220 artists, 40 percent from Iowa and 90 percent from the Midwest. ArtFest considers itself an alternative show that complements the downtown event. June 29-30, 2013; Iowa State Fairgrounds; www.stookeyshows.com

Yankee Doodle Pops Maestro Joseph Giunta will lead the Des Moines Symphony’s 20th annual Yankee Doodle Pops, a free outdoor concert that precedes a CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

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entertainment

SUMMER EVENT: 80/35 Music Festival

Here are 5 of the many reasons to attend the annual outdoor, two-day concert 1. Wu-Tang Clan

4. David Byrne and St. Vincent

Considered by many a music pundit to be one of the best and most influential rap groups of all time (MTV named it the fifth best in 2007), Wu-Tang Clan will headline 80/35 on Saturday, July 6, as if it’s still 1993. The East Coast hip-hop group consists of rappers RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa and the late, great Ol’ Dirty Bastard. Many in the crew also had successful solo careers. Wu-Tang is reuniting with the promise of a new studio album in July, and unlike many reformed groups touring under their original moniker, the clan will feature all living members of the original group.

He is famous for his tenure in the Talking Heads and she is an indie singer/songwriter with a string of successful solo albums. Each is successful in his/her own right, and together they sound little like they do apart. David Byrne and St. Vincent’s (aka Annie Clark) collaborative album, “Love This Giant,” is carried by a funky, jazzy horn section that’s propelled with drum programming by John Congleton. And if you don’t know the songs they play together, live shows from these two have been known to include work from the Talking Heads and Clark’s solo career.

2. Free stuff For those who refuse to purchase tickets, there are plenty of entertainment options outside the paid gates. In fact, most of the music takes place on the two free stages that sit at the southeast and southwest ends of the gated main stage. Also free is the water, nearly unheard of at music festivals where food and drink prices are most of the time conveniently inflated. In addition, children are free, even in paid areas of the festival, so the family can attend without going broke.

the waves of bands are announced for 80/35, with comments on Facebook ranging from ecstatic to enraged. Undoubtedly those who ultimately choose to attend 80/35 will have a list of the bands they plan to see, and undoubtedly, those bands will not be playing back-to-back, which leaves time to catch bands between bands. In previous years, as the stages came down and everyone was left to comment on the bands they’d seen, it was often the bands that were caught between bands that created the largest impact. Perhaps it was due to lowered expectations, but it may also just be that 80/35 is booking up-and-coming bands that may not have hit Des Moines’ radar.

5. It’s all volunteer run and it’s all in your backyard The 80/35 Music Festival has attracted more than 30,000 people since its incarnation in 2008, not a small feat for a festival that’s entirely planned and executed by volunteers. Each year more than 40 local, regional and national acts have graced three stages over the course of two days, and when it’s over, those same volunteers as well as loyal festival-goers reunite to tear down and clean up. Not to mention, an event of this magnitude is practically unheard of in cities the size of Des Moines, and that’s nothing to ignore.

3. Bands you’ve yet to discover For six years now the music lovers of Des Moines have had strong and mixed opinions as

80/35 Music Festival WHEN: July 5-6, 2013 WHERE: Western Gateway Park, downtown Des Moines MORE INFO: www.80-35.com Use the LifeInAction app to watch a video of 80/35 Music Festival highlights from previous years, and to learn more about the event’s history. 30 • 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

The Flaming Lips perform at the 80/35 Music Festival in 2008. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS

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fireworks display on the lawn of the Capitol. July 3, 2013; Iowa state Capitol’s west terrace; www.dmsymphony.org

Ankeny SummerFest A four-day, family friendly event featuring a softball tournament, parade, talent show and more. July 11-14, 2013; Northwest Ash and Prairie Ridge drives; www.ankenysummerfest.org

Italian-American Heritage Festival Few secrets are as sacred in the Italian-American heritage than a perfected sauce recipe, so it’s fitting the Italian-American Heritage Festival would include a sauce contest as part of its annual Caroline Wagner of Nevada views a painting at the Des Moines Arts Festival. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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entertainment

SUMMER EVENT: Iowa State Fair We could share 700 reasons to head to the state’s biggest event, but we’ll edit ourselves down to these seven. 1. Pork chop on a stick When President Obama made his election-time pilgrimage to the Iowa State Fair in an effort to drum up votes, he made sure his food choice appealed to the stomachs of Iowans and fairgoers: the pork chop on a stick. Though the fair boasts more than 50 types of foods on sticks, with more popping up every year, the boneless loin chops that continually rotate and roast on a portable rotisserie at the Iowa Pork Producers booth perhaps best represent a fair located in the country’s No. 1 pork producing state.

2. Dana Carvey, Kevin Nealon, Dennis Miller Both Hans and Franz, half of “Wayne’s World” and comedy vet Dennis Miller will bring laughs to the Grandstand on Saturday, Aug. 10, at 8 p.m. Dana Carvey is best known for playing Garth Alger in “Wayne’s World,” a character from Saturday Night Live, where he also perfected exaggerated impressions of George H.W. Bush and Ross Perot, and popularized characters like the Church Lady and Hans, half of the body building duo completed by Kevin Nealon. Tickets are $38.

3. Toby Keith Even if you don’t know Toby Keith by name, it’s hard to escape his 19 No. 1 hits and 16 top-10 hits. Anyone who’s visited a bar with a jukebox has inevitably heard “I Love This Bar” and “Beer for My Horses.” Keith has sold more than 40 million records worldwide and was named artists of the decade at the 2011 American Country Music Awards. See him at the Grandstand on Thursday, Aug. 15, at 8 p.m. Tickets are $49. Toby Keith will play the Iowa State Fair on Aug. 15. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS

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entertainment

Dan Konen of Jost Evolution Co. rides on Jericho during training for the Des Moines Renaissance Faire. The Renaissance Faire returns to Sleepy Hollow Sports Park in September. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

festivities. In addition, the two-day festival will crown a queen, hand out awards and feature plenty of live performances. July 26-27, 2013; Western Gateway Park; www.italianfestivalofiowa.com

when visitors can browse more than 50 specialty shops, attend the coronation of the royal court, cheer on knights in the jousting area as costumed people recreate the Middle Ages. Held in September; Sleepy Hollow Sports Park; www.dmrenfaire.com

National Balloon Classic

Illumifest

Each summer hot air balloon pilots from across the country and globe descend on Indianola to put on a nine-day show. Get there early to see the morning balloon flight, a brilliant display of colors in the summer sky. July 26-Aug. 3; www.nationalballoonclassic.com

Hot air balloon rides are available at this annual event, which also features a full-service carnival. Held in September; West Des Moines City School Campus; www.illumifest.com

Renaissance Faire

Iowaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Latino Heritage Festival considers itself the largest cultural event in the state; those who wish to experience the Latin-American

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Weekends in September mean the return of the Renaissance Faire,

Latino Heritage Festival

34 â&#x20AC;˘ 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

cultures can head to the downtown bridges for a weekend in September that showcases food, wares and services. Sept. 7-8, 2013; downtown bridges; www.latinoheritagefestival.org

parade, music, fireworks and more. Sept. 13-14, 2013; along Beaver and Urbandale avenues in Beaverdale; www.fallfestival.org

Gatsby Gala

The sounds of polka will invade Fourth Street downtown as Oktoberfest rolls out a barrel of German beer. The annual celebration outside the doors of Hessen Haus also includes contests, tented beer gardens and authentic German fare. Held late September; south of Court Avenue on Fourth Street; www.oktoberfestdsm.com

A tribute to the immodest 1920s glam era, including dancing the Charleston and foxtrot and smoking fine cigars. Presenting partner Templeton Rye whiskey, made famous during Prohibition, will be on-hand. Sept. 13, 2013; Salisbury House; www.salisbury house.org

Oktoberfest

Beaverdale Fall Festival

World Food and Music Festival

Celebrate a neighborhood filled with charming brick houses with a festival filled with vendors, a

The festival focuses on culinary traditions from around the world and how they tie into Iowa.

Samples available for $1 in addition to full-serving offerings. The festival also includes music and shopping opportunities. Sept. 20-22; East Village; www.worldfoodfestival.org

Madison County Covered Bridge Festival A festival to celebrate the historic covered bridges made famous by “The Bridges of Madison County.” The Covered Bridge Festival also includes antique and craft vendors, music and entertainment, a quilt show, a car show, an antique vehicle parade and guided bus tours of the covered bridges. Oct. 12-13, 2013; Winterset; www.madisoncounty.com

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The Hogback Bridge was a busy spot during the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival in 2011. The festival returns in October. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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entertainment

WINTER EVENT: Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival Ooooohhhhhhh Bacon!!!

here are few foods as popular as bacon. Besides its likeness being printed on all sorts of wares, including lampshades, wallets and iPhone cases, its biggest fans believe it can be added to and will improve just about any food. Des Moines has embraced The Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival, which celebrates all things about the salt-cured meat, with impressive fervor. In each of its six years, the festival has doubled in size and its thousands of tickets have sold in mere minutes. The 8,000 tickets for the 2013 festival were snatched up in just over three minutes. The festival is serious in its pursuit of bacon worship. The Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival invites industry professionals from around the nation to sit and sample bacon, without knowing the brand name, and provide ribbons in various categories. In addition, these judges taste bacon-inspired dishes prepared by Des Moines chefs and restaurateurs to select the three dishes that best represent each style category. But Bacon Fest is not just for bacon

Joe Becker, 37, Angela Becker, 31, Heather Gieseke, 26, and Duane Gieseke, 27, all of Urbandale, at the sixth annual Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival in Des Moines. connoisseurs. It’s also for the laymen who just happen to like bacon, with many bacon drinks and dishes available to sample. Previous year’s offerings have included bacon martinis, bacon gumbo and chocolate bacon bourbon tarts. The event also includes a few amateur eating athletes willing to eat mass amounts as part of

the amateur bacon eating competition, during which contestants down three pounds of cooked bacon in record time. The festival is preceded earlier in the week with a bacon queen pageant and a pig pardon by Gov. Terry Branstad.

Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival WHERE: Location TBD. The 2013 event was held at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. WHEN: Held annually in February INFO: www.blueribbon baconfestival.com Use the LifeInAction app to see the best photos from the last few Blue Ribbon Bacon Festivals.

Bacon fan and pro wrestler “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, center, gives a thumbs up with Matt Riley, 34, left, and Jeremy Steward, 30, at the Bacon Festival. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS 36 • 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

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A performer dances during an Indonesian cultural performance at the CelebrAsian festival last year. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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Festival of Trees and Lights The Festival of Trees and Lights has provided more than $6.5 million in financial aid for special programs and projects that serve the needs of children since its inception. Visitors can survey beautifully decorated holiday trees. There is also a children’s area, shopping, food and entertainment. Held in November; Veteran’s Memorial Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center; www.blank childrens.org

CelebrAsian A long tradition of celebrating the Asian and Asian-American communities and cultures continues as CelebrAsian takes

over the lawn of the state Capitol complex. Each community is organized as a “village” and showcases indigenous foods, culture, history, arts and crafts and sports such as table tennis and takraw. Held in May; Iowa state Capitol complex, www.iowa asianalliance.com

treats and events such as a matzah ball eating contest, live music and more at Temple B’nai Jeshurun, 5101 Grand Ave. each spring.

Greek Food Fair

Fan of Greek cuisine? Don’t miss this early summer event. Stuffed grape leaves, spanakopita, gyros and dancing and more. (The 2013 event was June 1-2.)

Tulip Time April showers bring May tulips. For three days each spring Pella is transformed into a mini version of Holland, replete with wooden shoes and Dutch costumes. The annual event also features parades, entertainment and theater performances. Held in May; Pella; www.pellatuliptime.com

Jewish Food Festival You can’t go wrong with tasty 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines • 37

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entertainment

Where to go on ‘movie night’ THE VARSITY THEATRE This Drake neighborhood movie house gives cinephiles a blast from the past. The Varsity has just one movie at a time on its marquee, and the theater space feels like it was pulled from a movie itself — deep, comfy seats. Oh, and don’t forget the ticket and concession prices, which also appear to be pulled from an era long past.

The Varsity shows art-house films, including foreign flicks and documentaries rare to Iowa, as well as showcasing some of the most classic films of all time on the big screen — from “Citizen Kane” to “Casablanca.” The Varsity is a Des Moines treasure. FIND IT: 1207 25th St.; 515-277-0404, www.varsitydesmoines.com

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FLEUR CINEMA & CAFE If you’re looking for the place in Des Moines that will show the eventual winners of the Independent Spirit Awards, the south-side art-house theater is your spot. The lobby has an art deco feel to it, and the concession menu features everything from cappuccino to beer and wine. Independent films, such as 2012’s

“Beasts of the Southern Wild” get early Iowa play at the Fleur — months before they capture greater mainstream buzz. So if there’s a film showing here you haven’t heard of, pop in and see it; you can impress your friends later when it earns a best screenplay Oscar nomination months later. FIND IT: 4545 Fleur Drive; 515287-4545, www.fleurcinema.com

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More area theaters:

Creek Drive, Pleasant Hill; 515-266-2676

Century 20 Jordan Creek: 101 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines; 515-440-6255. Home to perhaps the comfiest seats in town and the best spread of concessions. (Hot dogs! Nachos! Ice cream!)

Merle Hay Cinema: 3800 Merle Hay Road (inside Merle Hay Mall); 515-252-0804. Home to the largest non-IMAX screen in the state.

Cinemark Movies 12: 1317 Buckeye Ave., Ames; 800-326-3246, code 1207 Cinemark North Grand 5: 2801 Grand Ave., Ames; 800-326-3246, code 1225. Home to $2 (or less) tickets for second-run movies. Cobblestone 9: 8501 Hickman Road, Urbandale; 515-276-8468 Copper Creek 9: East University Avenue and Copper

Blank SCI IMAX Dome Theater: 401 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway; 515-274-4629. Home to select blockbusters in IMAX as well as regular IMAX educational films. Southridge 12: Southeast 14th Street and Army Post Road; 515-331-3456 Springwood 9: 2829 Ankeny Blvd, Ankeny; 515-964-5500 Wynnsong 16: Northeast 86th Street and Interstate Highway 35/80, Johnston; 515-331-0500

Fleur Cinema & Cafe has an art deco feel. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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entertainment

The Dropkick Murphys perform at the Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines in 2012. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

VENUES: Where to see live entertainment in central Iowa 7 FLAGS EVENT CENTER The suburban entertainment venue features 24,000 square feet and hosts everything from mixed martial arts and roller derby bouts to big-name touring acts. Among the musicians to recently take the stage: Bret Michaels, Macklemore, Goo Goo Dolls and an array of country stars. FIND IT: 2100 N.W. 100th St., Clive; 276-7003; www.7flagseventcenter.com

DG’S TAP HOUSE If you like craft beers and rock music, DG’s is a

40 • 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

spot worth checking out next time you’re up in Ames. The Main Street bar features well over a hundred types of beer, and live music — some local, some touring acts — on the weekends. FIND IT: 125 Main St., Ames; 515-233-5084; www.dgstaphouse.com

FUNNY BONE You won’t find live music hear, but you will find lots of laughs at the West Des Moines comedy club, a regular stop for touring standup comedians — funny folks from Jim Breuer to Pauly Shore to Brian Posehn.

FIND IT: 560 S. Prairie View Drive, West Des Moines; 270-2100; www.funnybonedm.com

GAS LAMP The Western Gateway bar and venue took over for the legendary Blues on Grand in 2011. It quickly became a popular spot to catch everything from blues and funk to rock and punk, and all genres in between. There’s also weekly team trivia (Tuesdays), karaoke and open jams. FIND IT: 1501 Grand Ave.; 280-3778; www.gaslampdsm.com

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HOUSE OF BRICKS The House of Bricks has been around Des Moines since before the music scene experienced its resurgence. It continues to pull in rock, punk, hip-hop and other acts. And a rooftop bar space and full menu make it a place worth visiting even if you’re not in the mood for a show. FIND IT: 525 E. Grand Ave.; 727-4370; www.thehouseofbricks.com

HOYT SHERMAN PLACE Hoyt Sherman was the first public museum in the city of Des Moines when it opened in the early 1900s. Now the theater in the Sherman Hill space, with its ornate historical decor, brings in bands, comedians, art exhibits and speakers able to draw big crowds. FIND IT: 1501 Woodland Ave.; 244-0507; www.hoytsherman.org

JAVA JOE’S/ FOURTH STREET THEATER

Indie rockers Minus the Bear perform at Wooly’s in the East Village. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

The Fourth Street coffee shop has long been a hangout for creatives. It is also a spot for events such as Irish jams, jazz shows and more. FIND IT: 214 Fourth St.; 288-5282; www.javajoescoffeehouse.com

THE MAINTENANCE SHOP The ISU campus spot, in the basement of the Memorial Union, pulls in an impressive lineup of indie acts. Bands such as Smashing Pumpkins, OK Go, Civil Wars and more have graced the stage here before hitting the big time. When school is in session, check the schedule for affordable concerts worth the drive north. FIND IT: 2229 Lincoln Way, Ames; 515-294-8349; www.m-shop.com

PRAIRIE MEADOWS RACETRACK AND CASINO The Altoona casino is also a spot for concerts featuring rock heavyweights such as ZZ Top, REO Speedwagon, Toto and more. FIND IT: 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona; 967-1200; www.prairiemeadows.com

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entertainment RITUAL CAFE The Western Gateway coffee shop, with its progressive vibe and vegan menu, is also home to acoustic acts, drum circles and community music events. FIND IT: 1301 Locust St.; 288-4872; www.ritualcafedsmiowa.com

SIMON ESTES RIVERFRONT AMPHITHEATER The outdoor amphitheater along the Des Moines River is the home of the summer Nitefall on the River series, which has brought in acts like Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, Umphrey’s McGee and a 2013 lineup that features Brandi Carlile, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros and more. One of the best spots in town for an outdoor summer show. FIND IT: Robert Ray Drive and Locust Street

VAL AIR BALLROOM Some 70 years ago, the Val Air was the spot in central Iowa for big bands, jazz shows and sock hops. It’s survived the test of time, but it’s now home to big-name acts like Snoop Dogg, Marilyn Manson, the Insane Clown Posse and Ted Nugent. A far cry from sock hops, indeed. FIND IT: 301 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines; 223-6152; www.valairballroom.com

VAUDEVILLE MEWS The spot in central Iowa to discover new music. Every night of the week, the Mews on Fourth Street brings in up-and-coming acts, the types of bands you might find on a free stage, then later maybe the main stage of the 80/35 Music Festival down the road. FIND IT: 212 Fourth St.; 243-3270; www.vaudevillemews.com

WELLS FARGO ARENA The opening of Wells Fargo Arena several years ago signaled a sea change for Des Moines’ music scene. Now giant acts, some of the biggest in the world, had a place to play in central Iowa — the Jimmy Buffetts and Kenney Chesneys and Taylor Swifts and Justin Biebers and Paul McCartneys and Bruce Springsteens of the world. The Well is also home to the Iowa Barnstormers, Iowa Energy and soon, the return of AHL hockey to Iowa in the form of the Iowa Wild. 42 • 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals perform outside at the Simon Estes Amphitheater in Des Moines. REGISTER FILE PHOTO FIND IT: 730 Third St.; 564-8000; www.iowaeventscenter.com

WOOLY’S

of the giants of the indie music world: Girl Talk, Sleigh Bells and more. In a short period, Sam Summer’s club has become a powerhouse in the local music booking scene.

In Des Moines’ East Village sits the rock club, Wooly’s, a mid-sized venue that pulls in some

FIND IT: 504 E. Locust St.; 244-0550; www.woolysdm.com

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4. State Fair Parade

Iowa State Fair

Fair season begins with the annual Iowa State Fair Parade. An estimated 200 floats, animals, vehicles, novelty and performing groups meet at the state Capitol complex and travel west on Grand Avenue to 13th Street. See it live on Wednesday, Aug. 7, at 6:15 p.m. or catch a rerun that evening on KDSM Fox-17.

WHEN: Aug. 8-18, 2013 (and each August) WHERE: Iowa State Fairgrounds COST: $11 for ages 12+, $5 for kids 6-11; free for children 5 and under

5. Demolition derby and figure eight racing Appease that small, perhaps hidden part of your psyche that appreciates it when cars are destroyed and their drivers put in potentially dangerous situations purely for entertainment purposes. On Saturday, Aug. 17, at 11:30 a.m. the demolition derby and figure eight racing will take over the Grandstand, ramming vehicles into each other and creating near-misses at the center of a track shaped like a figure eight. Admission is $15 for adults, $5 children 6-11 and free for ages 5 and under.

MORE INFO: Go to www.iowastatefair.org.

Callie Van Arkel, 2, of Altoona, watches the 2012 Iowa State Fair Parade. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

6. Butter cow An Iowa State Fair tradition since 1911, the butter cow starts with a wood, metal, wire and steel mesh frame. Add 600 pounds of low moisture, pure cream Iowa butter and a lot of time by butter sculptor Sarah Pratt and you’ve got a 51⁄2–foot-high and 8-foot-long dairy cow. In addition to the butter cow, a secret, companion sculpture is also displayed; in recent years the companion sculpture has paid homage to Elvis Presley, Tiger Woods and Harry Potter.

7. Iowa Craft Beer Tent Though beer is served at various locations throughout the fairgrounds, some of which have become institutions in their own right, a newcomer to the fair is gaining ground. In 2012 the Iowa Craft Beer Tent debuted at the fair, providing more than 30 beers from 13 different Iowa breweries and an additional three beers from regional breweries. Stop by for a 16-ounce brew, or purchase a sampler pack, which includes three 5-ounce beers of your choice. Visit www.iowacraftbeertent.com for information on this year’s beers.

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Cubbie Bear tosses a giant baseball to a fan before an I-Cubs game in Des Moines. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

Sports for all seasons IOWA CUBS Who they are: The triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. The season: Same as Major League Baseball — spring to fall. Where they play: At the beautiful Principal Park in downtown Des Moines, considered one of the top minor league parks in America. 1 Line Drive; 515-243-6111, www.iowacubs.com.

An Iowa Barnstormers player scores a touchdown. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

Why you’re a fan: Whether you root for the Chicago Cubs or not, a day at the ballpark is a joy of summer. Game tickets are affordable for I-Cubs games, and fun promotions and giveaways entice families and fans alike. And

of course, there’s always the chance to see up-and-coming future Chicago Cubs talent, or rehabbing major league stars on the mend.

IOWA BARNSTORMERS Who they are: A member of the Arena Football League, the fast-paced, high-scoring pro football league. The season: Spring and summer. Basically, during the offseason of the NFL. Where they play: Wells Fargo Arena, 730 Third St.; 515-6332255, www.theiowabarn stormers.com Why you’re a fan: Because

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entertainment

An on-ice scuffle between Des Moines Buccaneers and Sioux Falls Stampede players. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS football is king in America. And the team features several local and college players making an impact in the AFL. This is not the NFL, with its balanced rushing and passing games. The Barnstormers and the rest of the AFL feature high-scoring passing attacks.

DES MOINES BUCCANEERS Who they are: A member of the United States Hockey League, a top junior hockey organization in the United States.

Fans count down the seconds on the scoreboard clock before the Iowa Energy’s home opener in December 2012. 44 • 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

The season: October through April Where they play: Buccaneer

Arena, 7201 Hickman Road, Urbandale; 515-278-2827, www.bucshockey.com. Why you’re a fan: Live hockey is a treat to watch no matter the level of competition, and these talented under-20 players will one day advance to other leagues, some all the way to the NHL. Bucs games feature raucous crowds who show up for fun hockey, cheap beers ($1 Buc Beer Nights, anyone?) and affordable game tickets.

IOWA ENERGY Who they are: Members of the NBA Development League (the

Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold, left, and Tom Hockensmith, chair of the Polk County Board of Supervisors, hold up an Iowa Wild jersey at a press conference in April, announcing that the Minnesota Wild would bring its farm team to Des Moines. REGISTER FILE PHOTO “D-League”), the league just below the NBA. The season: Late fall to spring Where they play: Wells Fargo Arena; 515-564-8550, www.nba .com/dleague/iowa Why you’re a fan: Energy games are kid- and family-friendly, with a fun atmosphere that features giveaways, halftime entertainment and more. And on the court, these are some of the best basketball athletes in the world — featuring former NBA players.

IOWA WILD Who they are: The newly announced AHL team in Des Moines, a minor-league affiliate of the Minnesota Wild

The season: Fall through spring Where they play: Wells Fargo Arena Why you’re a fan: Because you might already be a fan of the Minnesota Wild. Or perhaps you miss the intense elite hockey action that once filled Wells Fargo Arena when AHL teams the Iowa Stars or Iowa Chops played here.

MIDWEST CAGE CHAMPIONSHIP MCC has ruled the mixed martial arts game in central Iowa in recent years, delivering popular events

and featuring some of the better regional MMA fighters. Find event and fighter info at www.midwest cagechampionship.com.

ROLLER DERBY Central Iowa found itself ahead of the curve in recent years when it came to the now-ubiquiious roller derby trend. Des Moines is home to the Des Moines Derby Dames and the Mid Iowa Rollers, as well as affiliate teams and even a men’s team (named Your Mom). Go to www.dmderbydames.com and www.midiowarollers.com.

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arts & culture

Des Moines: An arts destination Believe it: Central Iowa is home to world-class art, from the Art Center to the Opera to the Symphony and more By Michael Morain Register arts reporter

aybe you’ve noticed by now, but Des Moines is distinctly lacking in mountains and beaches and most of the other sorts of natural attractions that other areas brag about in their tourism publications. The city’s earliest settlers noticed the same thing and quickly decided they’d have to make their own fun. The result: Some of the best arts and entertainment options in the Midwest. The city’s museums, galleries and concert halls showcase remarkable homegrown talent, as well as visual and performing arts from around the world. Des Moines is big enough to offer lots of options and small enough that people can actually enjoy them without standing in long lines or shelling out big bucks for tickets. Some of the coolest stuff is free.

“Spider” by Louise Bourgeois is one of the world famous works featured in the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park in the Western Gateway area of downtown Des Moines. REGISTER FILE PHOTO 46 • 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

The Des Moines Art Center, for example, houses one of the world’s best collections of 20th century art, with major works by

Use the Register’s LifeInAction app to see a photo and description for each work of art in the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in downtown’s Western Gateway Park.

Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon, Ai Weiwei and others. The building is an artwork itself, designed in three phases by Eliel Saarinen (1948), I.M. Pei (1968) and Richard Meier (1985). The Art Center also oversees the world-class collection in downtown’s Pappajohn Sculpture Park, where visitors can take self-guided cellphone tours on a stroll among sculptures by Louise Bourgeois, Mark di Suvero and others. Jaume Plensa’s two-story “Nomade,” made from whitepainted steel letters, became an instant landmark when the park opened in 2009. The 76-year-old Des Moines Symphony can hold its own with any regional orchestra in the country. The Des Moines Metro Opera’s summer festival pulls in fans from both coasts. Ballet Des Moines stages original choreography for talented students and pros. And Des Moines Performing Arts hosts hit shows from Broadway, often during the first months of

Jaume Plensa’s two-story “Nomade” became an instant landmark when the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park opened in 2009. Self-guided cellphone tours are available. REGISTER FILE PHOTO their national tours. Together, that adds up to something that locals have known all along but that still may come as a surprise to first-time visitors: Des Moines is a destination. All those people who fly over or drive by on their way to beaches and mountains are missing out. Michael Morain covers arts and culture for The Des Moines Register. Find his blog at DesMoinesRegister.com/morain.

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Use the Register’s LifeInAction app to see a photo and description for each work of art in the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in downtown’s Western Gateway Park.

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arts & culture

Mark your calendar:

Performing Arts A glance at the new and upcoming seasons for three of central Iowa’s performing arts organizations DES MOINES PERFORMING ARTS BROADWAY SERIES Savvy programming and a season ticketholder base that exceeds 12,000 enables Des Moines’ 2,700-seat auditorium to attract some of Broadway’s biggest shows as soon as they hit the road out of New York. 221 Walnut St., 515-246-2300, www.desmoinesperforming arts.org Sept. 27-28: The British choreographer and director Matthew Bourne launches the North American tour of “Sleeping Beauty,” his third Tchaikovsky ballet. Oct. 30-Nov. 10: “Wicked” returns for its third time since 2008. Dec. 10-15: A new staging of “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” unwraps the old-fashioned musical that made Bing Crosby famous. Jan. 24-25: The Green Day musical “American Idiot” turns ’90s punk rock into a story about teenage rebellion against life in the ‘burbs. Feb. 4-5: The unstoppable Beatles tribute “Rain” performs almost 50 years to the day after the original John, Paul, George and Ringo launched their first American tour. Feb. 18-23: Blue Man Group presents the weird and wacky performance art that made them famous worldwide. April 1-6: “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess” takes a fresh, updated look at the 1935 jazz opera set in the Deep South — where the living is easy, the fish are jumping and the cotton is high. 48 • 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

Blue Man Group brings its weird and wacky performance art to the Des Moines Civic Center Feb. 18-23. PAUL KOLNIK/SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER April 22-27: The winner of eight 2012 Tony Awards, “Once” tells a love story on the streets of Dublin, with actors who play their own instruments on stage. June 10-15, 2014: “We Will Rock You” features the anthems of Queen, from “Bohemian Rhapsody” to “We are the Champions” to “Another One Bites the Dust.” Sept. 10-21, 2014: A new 25th anniversary production of “The Phantom of the Opera” brings back the legend of a beautiful Parisienne singer and her secret admirer from the sewers.

DES MOINES METRO OPERA Every summer, more than 200 singers, instrumentalists and stagecraft technicians from across the country flock to nearby Indianola to present one of the best opera festivals around. Now in its 41st year, the company performs in the recently renovated 466-seat Blank Performing Arts Center at Simpson College. 515-961-6221, www.desmoinesmetroopera.org This year’s festival runs from June 21 through July 14, with a rotation of: » Richard Strauss’ “Elektra,” based on the

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Des Moines Symphony Maestro Joseph Giunta celebrates his 25th season this year.

In September, a new 25th anniversary production of “The Phantom of the Opera” brings back the legend of a Parisienne singer and her secret admirer. PHOTOS SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER

Greek myth about a princess whose plot to avenge her father’s death plunges her into madness. Sung in German.

Fumiaki Miura makes his Des Moines Symphony debut with Bruch’s “Scottish Fantasy.”

» Charles Gounod’s “Romeo and Juliet” sets the star-crossed story to a shimmering, emotionally charged score. Sung in French.

Nov. 16-17: The orchestra presents a multimedia concert of Holst’s “The Planets,” with narration and outer-space film footage.

» Benjamin Britten’s “Peter Grimes” tells a cautionary tale about ignorance in a small fishing village. The new production lands on the 100th anniversary of the composer’s birth. Sung in English.

Dec. 31: Members of the original Four Seasons, Tommy James and the Shondells, and others, headline the annual New Year’s Eve Pops with catchy oldies that will stick in your head until 2015.

April 12-13: Beethoven’s groundbreaking Symphony No. 3 (”Eroica”) shares a program with his Violin Concerto in D Major, featuring the Hungarian soloist Bella Hristova.

And don’t worry if your French or German is a little rusty. All performances will be accompanied by English supertitles.

Feb. 15-16: David Snyder guest-conducts an all-Gershwin program for Valentine’s weekend, featuring pianist Kevin Cole in “Rhapsody in Blue,” the soprano Sylvia

May 10-11: Benjamin Grosvenor hits the hot seat for Saint-Saens’ Piano Concerto No. 2 in G Minor in a program with Giunta’s favorite Brahms symphony, the First, in C Minor.

In April 2014, “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess” takes the Civic Center Stage.

Enjoy a new staging of “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” in December.

DES MOINES SYMPHONY

McNair, and the tap dancer Ryan van den Boom. March 15-16: Principal percussionist Aaron Williams performs a marimba concerto sandwiched between two Czech delicacies: Smetana’s “The Moldau” and Dvorak’s Eighth Symphony.

The state’s largest arts employer celebrates its 76th season — and Maestro Joseph Giunta’s 25th — with a mix of familiar classics and challenging new works. www.dmsymphony.org July 3: The 20th annual Yankee Doodle Pops concert takes over the west terrace of the Iowa State Capitol. Sept. 14-15: Pianist Ilya Yakushev plays Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Major in an all-Russian program. Oct. 19-20: The young Japanese violinist

2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines • 49

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arts & culture MORE PERFORMING AND VISUAL ARTS BALLET DES MOINES This resident professional ballet company is aspiring to inspire young dancers to pursue their dreams of dance, and as part of that mission, 2012 marked the first company of dancers who lived and worked in Des Moines to provide outreach and performance opportunities for young dancers. 712 E. Second St.; 515-440-1177; www.balletdesmoines.org

BRUNNIER ART MUSEUM The state’s only accredited museum emphasizing a decorative arts collection. Located in the Iowa State Center on the campus of Iowa State University, the Brunnier has a decorative arts collection donated by ISU alumnus Henry Brunnier and his wife Ann. Scheman Building, Ames; 515-294-3342; www.museums .iastate.edu/BAMCurExb.htm

CIVIC MUSIC ASSOCIATION Civic Music Association’s continuous concert series has included such notable performances as Esperanza Spalding, Vienna Boys Choir and Joshua Bell. Additionally, Civic Music presents a free summer concert series featuring the Belin String Quartet, Fridays at 12:15 p.m. in Nollen Plaza starting May 31. 1620 Pleasant St., Suite 244; 515-280-4020; www.civicmusic.org

DES MOINES PLAYHOUSE Television and movie actress Cloris Leachman once participated in theater productions at the Des Moines Playhouse, which is among the six oldest continuously operating theaters in the United

Douglas Cochrane as Max Von Mayerling and Nick Toussaint as Joe Gillis in “Sunset Boulevard” at the Des Moines Community Playhouse. SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER States. Visit the Playhouse as they help launch more careers through 12-14 musicals, comedies, dramas and family shows annually. 831 42nd St., Des Moines; 515-2776261; www.dmplayhouse.com

DES MOINES SOCIAL CLUB Construction is finally underway at the Des Moines Social Club’s newest home, the downtown firehouse, preserving history while providing a home for theater, creative classes and more. Until the space is ready in the fall, the Social Club calls the first floor of the Kirkwood Hotel home. 400 Walnut St., 515-288-3672; www.desmoinessocialclub.org

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DRAKE UNIVERSITY ANDERSON GALLERY

TEMPLE FOR PERFORMING ARTS

A nonprofit exhibition space on the Drake University Campus that exhibits faculty and student work while teaching students proper museum and gallery procedures. 2505 Carpenter Ave.; 515-2711994; www.drake.edu/anderson gallery

Once named as one of the “most endangered” historic buildings the National Historic Register, this former Masonic Temple has been beautifully restored and now hosts music and theater performance facilities. 1011 Locust St.; 515-2884700; www.templeforperforming arts.com

HERITAGE ART GALLERY The building that houses the Heritage Gallery was built in 1908 and served as the main post office for Des Moines; it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. This multi-use space is used for artistic and historical exhibits. 111 Court Ave., 515-286-2242; www.polkcounty heritagegallery.org

STONER STUDIO THEATER A black-box theater tucked away inside the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines. Its regular cast of tenants include local boundarypushing theater troupe StageWest and improv comedy troupe Comedy XPeriment. 221 Walnut St.; 515-246-2300; www.des moinesperformingarts.org

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EVEN MORE SPOTS TO VISIT Altoona Historical Society Museum: What was once a hardware store now serves as a place to collect and secure artifacts and historical records representing Altoona, Ia., and the surrounding areas. 104 Second St. S.E., Altoona; 515-967-4815; www .altoonahistory.org Carnegie Library Museum: This Perry building was erected in 1904 with a grant from Andrew Carnegie, initially serving as the town’s public library; it’s been restored to its 1910 appearance and is again a working library with incredible specials collections. 1102 Willis Ave., Perry; 515-465-2518 Farm House Museum: Built in the 1860s, just 14 years after Iowa became a state, and located on the Iowa State University Campus, the Farm House Museum is a National Historic Landmark that now houses objects, art and historical information about the Farm House and its past. 515-4653342; www.museums.iastate.edu Fort Des Moines Museum and Education Center: The south side museum honors the U.S. Army’s first officer candidate class for African-American men in 1917, and the establishment of the first Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps in 1942. 75 E. Army Post Road; 515-282-8060 Hoyt Sherman Place: An ornate mansion built for Hoyt Sherman, who helped build Des Moines, more than 100 years ago. As a theater, it now hosts concerts, art exhibits, tours, weddings and business affairs. 1501 Woodland Ave.; 515-244-0507; www.hoytsherman.org Iowa Gold Star Museum: This free museum in Johnston is home to relics of Iowa’s military history from the 1800s to now. 7105

N.W. 70th Ave., Johnston; 515-252-4531; www.iowanational guard.com Iowa Hall of Pride: This downtown facility features dozens of exhibits highlighting achievements ranging from high school sports stars to movie stars and scientists. 330 Park St.; 515-2808969; www.iowahallofpride.com Iowa State Capitol building: Perhaps one of the most striking buildings in the Des Moines skyline is the Iowa State Capitol building, whose steel-and-brick dome is gilded with 23-karat gold leaf, making it visible for miles. Built between 1871 and 1876, the inside of the building is equally impressive, featuring marble, works of art, fixtures and carvings in both wood and stone. East 12th Street and Grand Avenue; 515-281-5591; www.legis.iowa. gov/Resources/tourCapitol.aspx Salisbury House & Gardens: Besides the magnificently maintained gardens outside of the property, the Salisbury House collection includes more than 10,000 objects including Native American crafts, rare books and documents, fine and decorative arts and antiques. Among the rare and first edition books are classics by D.H. Lawrence, Charles Dickens, Ernest Hemingway and more. 4025 Tonawanda Drive; 515-274-4025; www.salisbury house.org Science Center of Iowa: Open 362 days a year, the 110,000square-foot facility in the heart of downtown offers everything from a massive IMAX dome theater to interactive exhibits for kids and adults to special touring exhibits. 401 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway; 515-274-6858; www.sciowa.org

State Historical Building: Get your genealogy on at the State Historical Museum, which features a research library in addition to a store, restaurant and historical exhibits. The museum also serves up a bit of nostalgia, the highlight of which is a display about Floppy and memorability from his creator, Duane Ellett. 600 E. Locust St.; 515-281-5111; www.iowahistory .org

A middle-schooler stares up at the ceiling during a tour of the Iowa State Capitol. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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arts & culture

An international treasure, right here in Des Moines

By Michael Morain mmorain@dmreg.com

ollywood hands out the Oscars. New York has the Pulitzers. And Des Moines? We dish out the World Food Prize. Iowa native Norman Borlaug established the so-called “Nobel Prize for agriculture” in 1986 to recognize the farmers, scientists and political leaders who help keep the world fed. The annual award carries on the legacy of its late founder, whose crop research triggered the Green Revolution that saved an estimated one billion lives. Borlaug was one of just five people — with Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, Mother Theresa and Elie Wiesel — to receive the Congressional Gold Medal, Presidential Medal of Freedom and Nobel Peace Prize.

The prize is awarded every October, amid a week of events with visiting dignitaries and celebrities. But the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates is a worthy destination year-round. The headquarters moved two years ago into its current home in a 113-year-old building that once housed the city’s main public library, on the west side of the Des Moines River. The books have been replaced by interactive exhibits, murals, tapestries, sculptures — all designed to tell the story of food production and support a notion set forth by Daniel Webster. “When tillage begins, other arts follow,” the statesman wrote. “The farmers, therefore, are the founders of human civilization.” The Hall of Laureates anchors a leafy public garden on the Principal Riverwalk, but some of its greenest features are hidden from view. The eco-friendly renovation includes 90 solar panels on the roof, 100 geothermal wells dug 200 feet below the garden, and an 8,000-gallon cistern to collect rainwater for indoor plumbing and outdoor irrigation. The building is one of just a few in the country that is both LEED Platinum-certified and on the National Register of Historic Places. The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates in Des Moines, which opened in 2012 in the former Des Moines Public Library building, is one of the few buildings in the country that is both LEED Platinum-certified and on the National Register of Historic Places. REGISTER FILE PHOTO 52 • 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

It’s open for visitors, free of charge, most Tuesdays and Saturdays. Check www.worldfoodprize.org for details.

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My Des Moines Top 5 Highlights at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates By Ambassador Kenneth Quinn President of the World Food Prize Foundation

Kenneth Quinn

1. The Iowa Gallery A room on the mezzanine level contains an array of paintings by Iowa artists, each of which represents a story from Iowa’s agricultural and humanitarian heritage. One of my favorites is Mary Kline Misol’s painting that highlights the virtually unknown relationship between Mahatma Gandhi and George Washington Carver. 2. Energy Conservation Exhibit

3. Stained-glass window

4. Glass mosaics

The display on the ground floor tells the story about how we enabled this 19th century building on the National Register of Historic Places to attain LEED Platinum certification, the highest possible level of energy efficiency and resource conservation.

This original artwork commission was inspired by a stone sculpture at Iowa State University by the Danish immigrant artist Christian Petersen. The 20-foot window over the rotunda’s grand staircase depicts a family bringing in the harvest in classical times. It was fabricated at the Franz Mayer studio in Munich, with the “cartoon” drawn by Afghani artist Fazl Maqsoodi. See if you can find my dedication to Dr. Norman Borlaug hidden in the design.

Two large mosaic portraits in the Ruan Laureate Room depict the first World Food Prize laureate, Dr. M.S. Swaminathan of India, and the first female laureate, Dr. Evangelina Villegas of Mexico, and were created from a painting by the Japanese-American artist Kinuko Craft. Using computer technology, the Mosaika company in Canada then produced the 250,000 individual pieces of glass that were used in the mosaics.

5. Historic WPA Mural The federal Works Progress Administration mural on the ground floor was created between 1937 and 1941 and is entitled a “Social History of Des Moines.” We restored the mural to preserve and highlight the place this former library building had in the cultural history of Des Moines.

Use the Register’s LifeInAction app to watch Ambassador Quinn explain the World Food Prize’s ecofriendly LEED certification, a point of pride for the organization, and see a tour through the space.

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outdoors

RAGBRAI (finally) returns to Des Moines The 41st incarnation of the annual ride will roll right through the heart of bicycle-crazy Des Moines this summer. The 2013 Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa rolls south through the state July 21-27, from Council Bluffs to the final dip of the tire in the Mississippi at Fort Madison. In between: A stop in the capital city for the first time in 16 years. DAY 1: Council Bluffs to Harlan Council Bluffs marks the site of this year’s Missouri River tire dip/RAGBRAI launch. Visit the Great Plains Wing Air Force Commemorative Museum, but don’t forget the trains. A 56-foot-tall golden concrete spike sits at the intersection of South 21st Street and Ninth Avenue and marks the 1939 premiere of the film “Union Pacific.” The RailsWest (www.historical society.org/depot) and the Union Pacific (www.uprrmuseum.org) railroad museums are other chugga-chugga choo-choo highlights. DAY 2: Harlan to Perry Day two features the Karras loop, inspired by one of RAGBRAI’s founders and intended to make one day of the event stretch more than 100 miles. Choosing that option means a trip through the Danish villages of Elk Horn and Kimballton and taking in the windmill brought from Denmark in

1948, as well as the accompanying Danish import shop — the largest of its kind in the entire U.S. Also, try Iowa’s No. 1-ranked tenderloin at Larsen’s Pub. DAY 3: Perry to Des Moines Day three cycles through Dallas Center, then Van Meter, the birthplace of baseball Hall of Famer Bob Feller and home to the museum built to honor him. Then it’s on to Iowa’s capital city for the first time in more than a decade and a half. Riders will first get a tour of West Des Moines before Railroad Avenue, Southwest 63rd Street, Park Avenue and George Flagg Parkway steer them to the campsite at Waterworks Park. DAY 4: Des Moines to Knoxville Early riders can roll out of Des Moines and stop in Runnells for mimosas at the Rosey Acres Winery or something stronger at the town’s two bars. The winery’s tasting room is an 1890 bank, where owners Tom and Karen Diltz pour samples of Iowa-grown Paradise Mist (which goes in the mimosas), Rising Sun and a red called Attitude. Day 5: Knoxville to Oskaloosa Before he became a soldier, buffalo hunter, bouncer, miner,

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Burken Farms just outside of Clinton decorated with farm equipment to welcome RAGBRAI riders. REGISTER FILE PHOTO boxing referee and sharpshooter, Wyatt Earp was just one of the neighborhood kids in Pella. His boyhood home is part of the Pella Historical Village. And don’t forget the Dutch goodies. Day 6: Oskaloosa to Fairfield The road out of “Osky” winds through some of the smaller towns. Bikers won’t spot many shopping malls, but they can count on the essentials: decent food, cold drinks and a grassy patch for a nap. Then there’s Fairfield. Oprah Winfrey called it “America’s most unusual town.” Fairfield is a mix of Iowa and the world. There are more restaurants per capita than San Francisco. Day 7: Fairfield to Fort Madison The final dash toward the Mississippi rolls through the three Bs — Birmingham, Bentonsport and Bonaparte — with stops in Keosauqua and West Point along the way. The 406-mile ride ends in Fort Madison, where bikers can dip their tires at “one of the most beautiful and accessible riverfronts in Iowa,” Fort Madison Chamber coordinator Sarah Cantrell said.

Bikers can visit the city’s namesake fort, a replica of the original 1809 building. The museum nearby tells the city’s history on the river and the railroad, which still carries more than 100 trains through town each day.

RAGBRAI XLI WHEN: July 21-27, 2013 DES MOINES STOP: Tens of thousands of bicyclists and friends will converge on downtown Des Moines July 23. In addition to parties and activities as part of a RAGBRAI events village along the Principal Riverwalk and downtown bridges, acts Everclear, Live, Filter and Sponge will perform a free concert on the Court Avenue Bridge. As many as 20,000 attendees are expected. MORE INFO: Learn more about RAGBRAI, see hundreds of photos from past rides and more at RAGBRAI.com.

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FUN RUNS, ROAD RACES AND MORE OUTDOOR EVENTS By Erin Randolph Special to the Register

BRR RIDE Known as the “Original Winter Bike Ride,” the Bike Ride to Rippey (BRR) bikers tackle the wild Iowa winter on two wheels, experiencing the notoriously unpredictable February weather, which in recent years has ranged from frigid temperatures and below-zero wind chills to spring-like temperatures in the 60s. Held each February; www.bikeiowa.com

CAPITAL PURSUIT A 10-mile and 5K race starts at Eighth and Locust streets downtown, then loops around nearby streets and finishes at Nollen Plaza. Each September; www.capitalstriders.org

COLOR RUN The only run in Des Moines in which runners and walkers participate in an nontimed race

Runners celebrate completing the Color Run in 2012 by tossing paint into the air at the post-race party. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS while being doused from head to toe in various shades of neon powder. The fun continues at the finish line with a color festival. The first Color Run in central Iowa sold out. July 13, 2013;

www.the colorrun.com/ des-moines/

DES MOINES WINTER GAMES Hockey, softball, broomball, a

polar plunge and a cardboard sled race are some of the activities and events that make up the annual Des Moines Winter Games. Held each winter season (2013’s games were in January); www.iowagames.org

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outdoors

A group of Waldos ready to start, along with 7,500 of fellow runners, the Living History Farms off-road race in 2012. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

DRAKE RELAYS See some of the best athletes, including Olympic medalists and world champions, as the popular annual track and field event that takes over the Drake University campus. Held each April; www.godrakebulldogs.com. Not an elite track athlete? Participate in the Relays road races, or the Grand Blue Mile, a one-mile jaunt through downtown Des Moines.

HY-VEE TRIATHLON Participate in or cheer on those pitted against each other in a 1.5K swim, 40K bike ride and a 10K run as one of Iowa’s premiere athletic events hits West Des Moines. Sept. 1, 2013; www.hy-veetriathlon.com

DES MOINES MARATHON Des Moines’ annual marathon has a course that starts at Nollen Plaza, winds through the East Village, Court Avenue, Western Gateway, Terrace Hill, Drake and Waterbury neighborhoods. Essentially, runners get a tour of much of our beautiful city. The event also provides half-marathon and 5K options. Oct. 20, 2013; www.desmoines marathon.com

LIVING HISTORY FARMS OFF-ROAD RACE

CENTRAL IOWA TRAILS

This is a strange and unusual seven-mile (ish) off-road race through Living History Farms that sells out quickly. Participants wear costumes and do their best to avert the course’s notorious mud pits and finish the race with a snack reward. Nov. 23, 2013; Living History Farms, Interstate 80 and Hickman Road; www.fitnesssports.com

CENTRAL IOWA TRAILS, GRIMES

MUD RUN Traverse obstacles and mud pits — including the signature Mucky Mud Pit — on a course that winds through grass and wooded areas along the Des Moines River. Don’t forget to pack a change of clothes. June 15, 2013; James Cownie Soccer Complex, 2600 Hartford Ave.; www.iowa games.org

RACE FOR THE CURE A fundraiser for breast cancer research that features a 5K walk and run on the Iowa Capitol grounds that bring awareness to the fight against breast cancer, celebrates its survivors and honors those who lost the battle. Held each fall; www.komen iowa.org

RED FLANNEL RUN Sub-zero temperatures await those brave enough to participate in the YMCA’s annual threeand five-mile Red Flannel Run — preferably whilst decked out in red flannel. Held each February; www.dmymca.org

SUMMER GAMES Skiing, archery, billiards and basketball are some of the activities that mark the annual Summer Games. July 12-14, 18-21 and 26-28, 2013; www.iowagames.org

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Grimes boasts a stretch of trails that joins it to the metro area’s system. Along James Street, nearly two miles of trails link to Urbandale and other points along the network. www.grimesiowa.gov

CHICHAQUA BOTTOMS GREENBELT Stretching for almost 10 miles along the Skunk River in northeast Polk County, the Chichaqua greenbelt offers several established trails ranging from a quarter mile to 2.6 miles. 8700 N.E. 126th Ave., Maxwell; 515-967-2596

HIGH TRESTLE TRAIL This trail, relatively new but growing in popularity among bike enthusiasts, features a 13-story, half-mile-long bridge that lights up at night. The 25-mile stretch of trail goes from Ankeny to Sheldahl and Slater, where it connects with the Heart of Iowa Nature Trail to the east. www.inhf.org/high-trestletrail-intro.cfm

LEDGES STATE PARK Considered one of the best hiking spots in central Iowa, Ledges State Park in Boone has 13 miles of hiking trails that lead up and down steep slopes to scenic overlooks. 1515 P Ave., Madrid; 515-432-1852

CLIVE GREENBELT TRAIL Clive has 8.5 miles of winding trails along picturesque Walnut Creek and connecting together trails. A good entry point is the Campbell Recreation Area. 12385 Woodlands Pkwy, Clive.

GREAT WESTERN TRAIL The 16.5-mile paved trail runs between southwestern Des Moines and Martendsdale, passing through small towns, suburbs and farmland. It’s popular for its proximity to Cumming and the Cumming Tap, a hangout for bicyclists.

RACCOON RIVER VALLEY TRAIL A 56-mile bike trail that starts in Clive and meanders through Greene, Guthrie and Dallas counties. Starts on Highway 6 in Clive; 515-386-5488; www.raccoonrivervalleytrail.org

MAKOKE TRAIL More than 300 species of birds live within a 30-mile radius of Des Moines, and the Makoke trail provides a guide to the best bird-watching sites in the area. Download a map at www.iowa birds.org

GREENWOOD PARK URBANDALE TRAILS The Center Trail at Greenwood Park, located near the Des Moines Art Center, provides opportunity for hiking and trail riding and opens up opportunities to hop on trails around the city. 4700 Grand Ave., Des Moines; www.centraliowa trails.com

Urbandale boasts 36 miles of trails on which to walk, jog or bike. 515-278-3963; for a map visit www.urbandale.org/ biketrails.cfm

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Get outside, hit some balls Your choices of public golf courses in central Iowa are many A.H. BLANK MUNICIPAL COURSE This sprawling Des Moines golf course has its priorities in order: Golfers can page the beverage cart from their own cart. The course’s GPS technology also provides the distance of the golfer’s ball from the hazards and the flag. 808 County Line Road, Des Moines; 515-248-6300; www.blankgolfcourse.com

BEAVER CREEK GOLF COURSE Situated just northwest of Des Moines in Grimes, Beaver Creek is a 27-hole bent grass golf course that provides leagues, lessons and corporate outings. 11200 N.W. Towner Drive, Grimes; 515-9863221; www.beavercreek-golf.com

COLDWATER GOLF LINKS Inspired by the historic Scottish links that created the game of golf, Coldwater Golf Links has bent grass tees, fairways and open greens featuring native grasses. 615 S. 16th St., Ames; 515-2334664; www.coldwatergolf.com

A golfer tees off onto the No. 10 fairway at the Grandview Golf Course. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

COPPER CREEK GOLF COURSE

DEER RUN GOLF CLUB

This 18-hole, par 71 golf course among the rolling hills of Copper Creek presents challenges to golfers of all abilities. Carts are also equipped with GPS. 4825 Copper Creek Drive; 515-2631600; www.golfcoppercreek.com

COUNTRYSIDE GOLF COURSE An 18-hole course located four miles south of the Des Moines

International Airport that features bent grass fairways, greens and tees. 3089 North Ave., Norwalk; 515-981-0266; www.country sideiowa.com

The 18 holes at the Deer Run Golf Club measure 6,628 yards from the longest tees, for a challenging par 72. 2305 W. Second Ave., Indianola; 515-961-5445

GRANDVIEW GOLF COURSE Grandview Golf Course is one of the oldest courses operating in the country. It was built in 1902. Unlike newer courses, the length is much shorter, but large trees

protect the greens, which offer plenty of elevation. 2401 E. 29th St.; 515-248-6301; www.grand viewgolfcourse.org

JESTER PARK GOLF COURSE Located 30 miles north of Des Moines and open year-round, Jester Park Golf Course has both an 18-hole championship and 9-hole par 3 executive course. With four sets of tees on each hole, golfers can play to their ability. 11949 N.W. 118th Ave., Granger; 515-999-2903; www.jesterparkgolf.com

LEGACY GOLF CLUB An 18-hole golf course south of

Des Moines featuring bent grass tees, greens and forgiving fairways. All carts are equipped with GPS. 400 Legacy Parkway, Norwalk; 515-287-7885; www.thelegacygolfclub.com

Use the LifeInAction app to see an interactive map of public golf courses in central Iowa.

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outdoors OTTER CREEK Forty-four bunkers, 17 ponds and an abundance of tall grasses and mounding are waiting to swallow wayward golf balls at this recently redesigned Ankeny course. 1410 N.E. 36th St., Ankeny; 515-965-6464

ROLLING HILLS GOLF COURSE A short course built on rolling terrain with oak trees lining its fairways. Rolling Hills is a par 36, nine-hole course that can be set up to play 18. 6205 Highway 28, Norwalk; 515-981-1500

SHADY OAKS GOLF COURSE

course that winds through hills, dramatic bluffs and timberland surrounding Big Creek State Park and two major lakes. 1000 Tradition Drive, Polk City; 515984-9440; www.tcofiowa.com

EVEN MORE OUTDOORS THINGS TO DO

VEENKER MEMORIAL GOLF COURSE

Blank Park Zoo

An 18-hole public facility and home to Iowa State University’s golf teams. Veenker has been ranked among America’s best state public access courses by Golfweek magazine. 1925 Stange Road, Ames; 515-294-6727; www.veenkergolf.com

WAVELAND GOLF COURSE

An 18-hole regulation course that at its longest tees offers more than 6,000 yards of golf for a par 71. 18169 Highway 92, Ackworth; 515-961-0262

The oldest municipal golf course west of the Mississippi boasts 18 holes built on wooded hillsides. Miss badly here and you’ll be battling the hills. 4908 University Ave.; 515-248-6302; www.wavelandgolfcourse.org

TERRACE HILLS GOLF CLUB

WOODLAND HILLS GOLF COURSE

One of Des Moines’ oldest family owned and operated golf facilities offers a 41⁄2 hour guarantee: arrive weekdays before 2 p.m. and weekends and holidays before noon, and finish 18 holes in 41⁄2 hours or the next green fee is free. 8700 N.E. 46th Ave., Altoona; 515-967-2932; www.terrace hillsgolf.com

This 18-hole regulation course is perfect for all types of golfers. A practice facility provides target greens, chipping practice and putting greens. 620 N.E. 66th Ave., Des Moines; 515-289-1326; www.golfwoodlandhills.com

TOAD VALLEY PUBLIC GOLF COURSE

Three unique courses exist at Willow Creek: an 18-hole course with tree-lined fairways and large greens; a nine-hole course with open fairways and large greens; and a nine-hole course with varying terrain and water hazards. 140 Army Post Road, West Des Moines; 515-285-4558; www.willowgolf.com

This 18-hole course features 6,170 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par 71. 237 N.E. 80th St., Pleasant Hill; 515-967-9575; www.toadvalleygolfcourse.com

TOURNAMENT CLUB OF IOWA

WILLOW CREEK GOLF COURSE

An Arnold Palmer Signature Course, Tournament Club of Iowa offers a challenging, yet appealing

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PARKS Des Moines’ zoo is always changing, most recently with the construction of an Africa expansion that will make room for eland, African tortoises, ostriches and black rhinos. These animals join the already impressive array of furry, finned and winged animals. 7401 S.W. Ninth St.; 515-285-4722; www.blankparkzoo.com Brown’s Woods Iowa’s largest urban forest preserve features two miles of hiking trails, small streams, rolling hills and a rich canopy of oak and hickory trees that stretches from Brown‘s Woods Drive to the Raccoon River. This wildlife area is named after Tallmadge E. Brown, a successful Des Moines lawyer who acquired large tracts of land around Des Moines in the late 1800’s. Southwest 63rd Street, West Des Moines, 515-285-7612 Sleepy Hollow Sports Park This year-round entertainment venue hosts go-karts, batting cages, mini-golf, a rock wall, laser tag and a driving range in spring and summer, in addition to special events like the Des Moines Renaissance Faire and charity running races. Fall brings the haunted scream park, and the snowy Iowa winter means skiing, snowboarding and tubing. 4051 Dean Ave., Des Moines; 515-2624100; www.sleepyhollowsports park.com

of birds, shaded picnic areas with fireplaces and tables, an equestrian trail and areas perfect for cross country skiing. 3155 Walnut Woods Drive, West Des Moines; 515-285-4502; www.iowadnr.gov Water Works Park Nearly 1,500 acres of open wooded areas located within city limits and directly across Fleur Drive from Gray’s Lake. Biking, jogging, picnicking, fishing and hiking are available, in addition to large open areas that are used for team sports, music events and other events. 2201 George Flagg Parkway; 515-283-8772; www.dmww.com

CAMPING, LAKES AND RIVERS Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park 13084 Elkhorn St., Indianola; 515-961-7101 Big Creek State Park 12397 N.W. 89th Court, Polk City; 515-984-6473 Copper Creek Lake Park Four Mile Creek, 4390 E. University Ave., Pleasant Hill; 515-323-8200; www.ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us/

Walnut Woods State Park The Raccoon River intersects this 260-acre park, offering fishing and canoeing opportunities. The park also serves as home for black walnut trees, more than 90 species

Miya, a baby Japanese macaque, at the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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Des Moines River Water Trail Learn about access points and float trips at www.desmoinesriver.org

MY FAVORITE SPOT TO PADDLE:

Easter Lake

BY JOHN WENCK, PRESIDENT OF CENTRAL IOWA PADDLERS

2830 Easter Lake Drive; 515-285-7612 Gray’s Lake 1700 Fleur Drive; 515-237-1386; www.dmgov.org Lake Ahquabi

Valerie Veraldi, of Clive, and her dog, Ralphie, enjoy a sunny afternoon at the Des Moines Riverwalk Dog Park. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

1650 118th Ave., Indianola

Ewing Dog Park

Ledges State Park

Open year-round from 6 a.m. to sunset, and features 8.5 acres of fenced area and an additional acre for dogs under 20 pounds. 4660 Indianola Ave.; 515-237-1364; www.dmgov.com

1515 P Ave., Madrid; 515-432-1852 Middle Raccoon River 711 Bridge St., Redfield; 515-833-2636 Saylorville Lake www.facebook.com/pages/ Saylorville-Lake-Marina/ 139667052771733

Indianola Off-Leash Dog Playground

1086 222nd Drive, Boone; 515-432-9457; www.sevenoaksrec.com

Fenced land for big and small dogs, agility equipment, watering stations, waste receptacles, shelter and picnic tables. Annual or daily passes available. Downey Memorial Park, South K Street and West 17th Avenue, Indianola; 515-961-9420; www.indianolaparks.com

Yellow Banks Park

Raccoon River Dog Park

6801 S.E. 32nd Ave., Pleasant Hill; 515-266-1563

Ten acres of fenced play area with multiple fenced areas. Permits required. 2500 Grand Ave, West Des Moines; 515-222-3424; www.wdm.iowa.gov

Seven Oaks Recreation

DOG PARKS Ames Dog Park Bring current vaccination certificates for each dog and a facility use permit form. Prices vary. 605 Billy Sunday Road, Ames; 515-239-5350; www.cityof ames.org Ankeny Dog Park Features a pond, aerator, gravel walking path, benches, shelter and agility equipment. 1155 S.W. Ankeny Blvd., Ankeny; 515-963-3570; www.ankeny dogpark.org

Riverwalk Dog Park The new four-acre fenced downtown dog park at 1111 Illinois St., across the river from the Botanical Center, is open daily from 6 a.m. to sunset. Permits are required and can be purchased at City Hall. For $20 a year, a dog owner will have access to Riverwalk Dog Park and Ewing Dog Park. Dogs must be licensed and have proof of vaccination. Rovers Ranch Privately owned and operated off-leash membership dog park and

While it may not offer the dramatic scenery of the Upper Iowa River in northeast Iowa or the wilderness feel of the Boundary Waters, the Des Moines River in Polk County is our home river and unbeknownst to many, it has lot to offer. The 20-mile stretch of river between Saylorville Lake and Yellow Banks County Park is a state-designated water trail and also a National Recreation Trail. Five individual segments of river offer a variety of options for beginner and intermediate paddlers. Some stretches are surprisingly wild given the fact that they lie within the boundary of the largest metropolitan area in the state. Other stretches are rich in history offering unique glimpses of the past including large Victorian homes perched atop high bluffs, historic bridges, an old ice house

training center. Between Pleasant Hill and Runnells on 108th Street; www.roversranch.com Windsor Heights Dog Park A newer facility located south of Colby Park. No permits required, though animals are required to be up-to-date on vaccinations. 6960 School St., Windsor Heights; www.windsorheights.org

OUTDOOR/REC CLUBS Central Iowa Paddlers A group of paddle-sport enthusiasts both new and experienced that take to Iowa’s waterways in canoes

foundation as well as other shadows of the past. Even within the most urban areas, nature is present along the river corridor. It’s not uncommon to see bald eagles, mink, beaver and a variety of migrating warblers in spring and fall. Central Iowa Paddlers is leading a trip on the Des Moines River water trail one afternoon each month during the 2013 paddling season. Nonmembers are welcome, but you need your own equipment and gear. Checkout the event calendar at www.central iowapaddlers.org.

and kayaks. In support of that interest, the paddlers also share information, promote recreation and safety, and encourage care of the aquatic resources. Go to www.paddleiowa.org. Capital Striders Capital Striders is a running club for both new and experienced runners that runs in and organizes its own races and philanthropic activities. www.capitalstriders.org Des Moines Astronomical Society The Astronomical Society hosts a lecture series that’s meant to encourage, promote and educate

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outdoors about the field of astronomy. www.dmastronomy.com Des Moines Rowing Club This group of rowers and rowing enthusiasts hosts the Head of Des Moines Regatta, one of the oldest and largest in the Midwest, every September. The club accepts all skill levels, as well as those who just have an appreciation of the sport. www.desmoinesrowing.org Des Moines Triathlon Club This club aims to be the entry point for new triathletes. Its members provide support to help athletes reach their goals and increase awareness and involvement in multisport activities and events. www.dsmtri.com Iowa Outdoor Unlimited For those who appreciate all aspects of outdoor recreation, the Iowa Outdoor Unlimited is an activity-based club for all ages, professions, interests and abilities. www.iowaoutdoorunlimited.com

HORSEBACK RIDING Jester Park Equestrian Center

serves as an outdoor studio for the magazine’s photographers, a meeting and lunch spot for employees and a venue for corporate entertaining. 1716 Locust St.; 515-284-3994 Des Moines Botanical Garden Located on 14 acres along the east bank of the Des Moines River, the garden offers indoor and outdoor botanical displays. A new eatery will be unveiled in autumn of 2013. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 909 Robert D. Ray Drive; 515-323-6290; www.dmbotanicalgarden.com Forest Park Museum A walking trail sits along the perimeter of 12 acres of re-established prairie and wildflowers. The arboretum has more than 100 species of primarily native trees and shrubs. The museum itself includes Dallas County’s last remaining one-room schoolhouse and displays featuring early transportation, farm machinery, small hand tools, a blacksmith shop and more. Free. 14581 K Ave., Perry; 515-4653577; www.co.dallas.ia.us Iowa Arboretum

Riders of all skill levels will be able to find an activity at Jester Park. Riding lessons and trail riding are available while it’s warm and sleigh rides are offered during the winter months. The equestrian center also has a program for special needs and at-risk youths. 11171 N.W. 103rd Court, Granger; 515-9992818; www.jesterparkec.com

This self-proclaimed “library of living plants” is a 378-acre facility housing hundreds of species of trees, shrubs and flowers as well as woodland trails and a restored prairie walk. Open sunrise to sunset daily. 1875 Peach Ave., Madrid; 515-795-3216; www.iowa arboretum.org

MORE NATURE

At 14 acres, Reiman Gardens is the largest public garden in the state. The year-round facility owned by Iowa State University sits near Jack Trice Stadium and features indoor and outdoor gardens, an indoor conservatory, 2,500-square-foot indoor butterfly wing and five supporting greenhouses. 1407 University Blvd., Ames; 515-2942710; www.reimangardens.com

Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden is much more than its name implies. Though it has 22 garden rooms and beds; 2,500 trees, shrubs and perennials; 17,000 bulbs; and a changing palette of 500 perennials, it also

Reiman Gardens

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Stephie Tran of Des Moines gets help carrying her plants to her car from Fred Howell of Howell Green House in Cumming at the Downtown Farmers Market. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

FARMERS MARKETS Downtown Farmers Market The Downtown Farmers Market is the biggest, by far, outdoor market in central Iowa. Opening day last year drew a record crowd of 40,000 people. Producers from across Iowa offer seasonal fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, cheeses, eggs, wine, flowers, breads and more. The market also provides local art and entertainment, learning opportunities and special programming. Visit it every Saturday, rain or shine, May through October, 7 a.m. to noon; Court Avenue District; 515-286-4928, www.des moinesfarmersmarket.com Altoona: 4 to 7 p.m. Fridays, June through September; Sixth Street Place Southeast in Haines Park Ames: » 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays, May through October; 400 block of Main Street, including Tom Evans Plaza » 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays and 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, May through October; North Grand Mall, 2801 Grand Ave. Ankeny: 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays, May 18 to Sept. 28; Southwest

Third and Maple streets Beaverdale: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, June 4 through Sept. 17; Boesen’s Field, 3422 Beaver Ave. Boone: 3-6 p.m. Thursdays, June through October; 528 Story St. Drake: 4 -7 p.m. Wednesdays, June 5 through Sept. 25; First Christian Church, 25th Street and University Avenue East Side: 3-6 p.m. Tuesdays, May 21 through October; 3200 Delaware Ave. Johnston: 3-7 p.m. Tuesdays, May 21 through Oct. 8; Johnston City Hall, 6221 Merle Hay Road Pleasant Hill: 4-7 p.m. Thursdays, May 9 through Oct. 24; Berean Assembly of God, 5229 E. University Ave. Southridge Mall: 3:30-6:30 p.m. Mondays, May 13 through Oct. 14; parking lot north of Sears, Southridge Mall Valley Junction: 4-8 p.m. Thursdays, May 2 through Oct. 3 (except July 4); Historic Valley Junction Waukee: 4 -7 p.m. Wednesdays, June 5 through Sept. 25; Triangle Park, Ashworth Road and Sixth Avenue.

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shop

Ready, set, shop

From malls to locally owned specialty shops, central Iowa is home to many options for filling your shopping bags BEAVERDALE The Des Moines neighborhood is home to charming Beaverdale brick homes, tree-lined streets and parks galore, but the small shopping district offers many options for local shopping, as well. Beaverdale Books (2629 Beaver Ave., No. 1) is an independently owned bookstore that shines a spotlight on local and Iowa authors, hosts book clubs and features writers’ groups and author visits and signings. Across the street, Cup O’ Kryptonite (2702 Beaver Ave.) is a must-stop spot for comic books — as well as a cup of free coffee. Back Country (2702 Beaver Ave.) sells outdoor gear and clothing for those interested in taking their hiking, biking and camping to new levels. The shop carries hard-to-find brands and some of the latest and greatest in campside innovations. Beaverdale Bicycles (2701 Beaver Ave.) is a small specialty shop for fans of two-wheeled transport, while Beaverdale Vintage (3702 Beaver Ave.) can help you fill your home with retro items. If you’re looking to take a shopping break, several options are available: Grounds for Celebration (2709 Beaver Ave.) and Beaverdale Confections (2641 Beaver Ave.) for an iced coffee drink and candy, respect-

spices, olive oils and vinegars, and Kitchen Collage (430 E. Locust St.), where you can fill your kitchen cabinets with tools and utensils and more.

ively. In the warmer months there is Snookies Malt Shop (1801 Beaver Ave.), the beloved ice cream shop that inspires people to camp there overnight in order to be the first customers on opening day.

EAST VILLAGE The East Village east of the river in downtown Des Moines has become a bona fide shopping destination in central Iowa. The historic district offers options on everything from vintage and antiques to snarky T-shirts to furniture to foodie delights. Make one of your first stops Raygun (400 E. Locust St.), Iowa’s foremost purveyor of ironic and clever T-shirts and novelty gifts. On the modern end of the spectrum, Domestica (321 E. Walnut St.) offers hip housewares, accessories, prints and more. Next door is Ichi Bike (311 E. Walnut St.), a store that specializes in customized and vintage bicycles. Four-legged friends deserve to be spoiled, too, so stop by Jett and Monkey’s Dog Shop (503 E. Locust St.), which specializes in unique, eco-friendly and high-quality products for pets. Next door, Ephemera (505 E. Locust St.) is stocked with adorable stationery, home and housewares.

A shopper browses a selection of necklaces at Raygun. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

Gong Fu Tea (414 E. Sixth St.), a high-end teahouse with an entire wall of options in shiny silver canisters. Then walk through a few foodie shops: AllSpice (400 E. Locust St.), home to blends of

For antiques, check out Found Things (520 E. Grand Ave.) and Porch Light Antiques (526 E. Grand Ave.). On the other side of the spectrum, find a handcrafted, functional piece of art at Sticks (521 E. Locust St.), a gallery that features furniture, accessories and object art. For the person in your life that appreciates one-of-a-kind or limited-run clothing, jewelry and accessories, visit the Vitae Design Collective (400 E. Locust St.), home to items from local artisans, plus vintage clothing and boots.

INGERSOLL This Des Moines street is sur

Break time: Savor a cup of tea inside the soothing space of

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shop rounded by historic neighborhoods and features eclectic shopping options. For the man in your life who loves clothes, pick up stylish suits, denim and accessories at Badowers (2817 Ingersoll Ave.), an independent store with an in-house tailor — and a growing reputation as a menswear destination across the country. ZZZ Records (2200 Ingersoll Ave.) is the ideal spot to pick up both popular and rare vinyl records for the music lover in your life. Get custom framing work done at Tandem Brick Gallery (2722 Ingersoll Ave.), which also sells unique gift items, jewelry or the handmade paper Starlightz that illuminate the store window at night. G&L Clothing (1801 Ingersoll Ave.) has been dressing Des Moines residents in work, casual and dress gear since 1917. With brands like Carhartt, Dickies, Levis, Dockers and Wrangler and sizes that start with kids sizes and top out at 10XL and 5XL tall, you’d be hard-pressed to walk out empty handed. Swing by Moberg Gallery (2921 Ingersoll Ave.) to see works by several dozen accomplished artists.

JORDAN CREEK Go west to Jordan Creek Town Center for the largest mall in the state of Iowa. Inside the massive shopping center find high-end national chains like Williams -Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Coach, Apple and J. Crew. And the Century 20 Theater offers some of the biggest and best movie screens and surround sound (including select films in XD), as well as a spread of concessions with everything from hot dogs and nachos to ice cream and cappuccino. There are specialty stores not available at other metro malls, including The Art of Shaving, a

store specializing in men’s grooming products, including shaving and grooming kits as well as straight and safety razors. One of the anchor department stores, Dillard’s, offers mid-range clothing, accessory and shoe options for the entire family. For the woman who prefers diamonds, opportunities abound at Jared’s the Galleria of Jewelry, Roger’s Jewelers and Helzberg Diamonds. For the more socially conscious person on your shopping list, consider The Body Shop, which offers bath and body products; the England-based company is in favor of fair trade and against animal testing. Sporting goods store Scheel’s offers a wide variety of gift ideas for the sports fans or participants on your list, including an enormous selection of Iowa and Iowa State gear, as well as gear for hunting, skiing, snowboarding and more. Surrounding the mall is more retail spots, such as Blond Genius (165 S. Jordan Creek Parkway), a go-to destination for high-end women’s denim.

MERLE HAY Merle Hay is the city’s oldest mall, and the facility at 3800 Merle Hay Road is anchored by big box stores Ulta, Target, Kohls, Old Navy, Younkers and Sears. Inside, find dozens more storefronts, including several small local establishments. The state’s largest non-IMAX movie screen is at the Merle Hay Theater, and a downstairs bowling alley and Red Rock Wildlife Education Center (see live animals, such as wolves) provide more family entertainment.

SHOPS AT ROOSEVELT This small strip mall at 833 42nd St. is home to stores offering many delights. Vom Fass specializes in high-end whiskey, liquor and

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galleries, craft shops, and specialty stores. Heart of Iowa Market Place (211 Fifth St.) offers Iowa-themed food, souvenirs, gifts and gift baskets. For the kid who has everything, peruse through KangarooBoo (415 Fifth St.), a specialty toy shop that carries eco-friendly, smart toys for kids of all ages. Each product is clearly marked with the country of origin as well, with most hailing from Europe.

Jordan Willis in a tie and shirt combo from menswear store Badowers. REGISTER FILE PHOTO cooking ingredients. The store sells cask-aged vinegars, wines and spirits directly from the cask; many locally found only there. (And you can buy them in classy, individual glass containers that are customizable.) Just a few feet away, The Cheese Shop of Des Moines gives you a chance to tailor a gift to the ultimate foodie, with gift packs, cheese and meats, and more, with folks behind the counter who know what they’re talking about when it comes to cheese. The store has become a center for foodies in town. Head to Elements Ltd. for hand-crafted one-of-a-kind jewelry, or to Worn resale boutique for high-end and designer clothing for a fraction of the sticker price. Across the street is Action Accents, a must-stop spot for swimwear, triathlon and swimming gear.

VALLEY JUNCTION Valley Junction in West Des Moines is a historic district dating back to the 1800s. Now it’s home to more than 100 businesses, including restaurants, bars, art

Stop in for wine tastings at Wines of Iowa (411 Railroad Place). Four-legged friends will benefit from the treats, toys and other random pet wares available at Diggity Dog (511 Elm St.). The Theatrical Shop (145 Fifth St.) and Atomic Garage (127 Fifth St.) are some of the best spots in central Iowa for Halloween and party costumes and vintage clothing. If you’re a second-hand fan, head to A-OK Antiques; while there, do yourself a favor and revel in the mid-century modern offerings on the second floor. And stop by Valley Junction all summer on Thursday nights for its outdoor market, as well as its outdoor concert series, Music in the Junction.

VALLEY WEST Valley West Mall offers more than 135 shops and is anchored by Younkers, JC Penney and Von Maur. Fit to be Tied specializes in more than 30 brands of European comfort shoes, including Keen, Birkenstock and Ugg. Calypso 968 offers an eclectic mix of home furnishings, sculptures, antiques, hundreds of clocks, nostalgic candy and functional art pieces; many of the items are one-of-a-kind and others are reproductions of famous architectural, mid-century modern furniture pieces. Experience a 100-year Dutch tradition of European bonbons

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food in addition to other accessories. For the trendy career women on your shopping list, pick up a gift at Mint LA, a local boutique owned by Rebekah Risbeck, a former Los Angeles resident who spent 10 years in the fashion industry.

filled with fresh cream and nuts at Chocolaterie Stam. Iowa fans should swing by Herky’s Locker Room, the official team store of the Iowa Hawkeyes, which offers everything from vinyl cargo mats and magnets to T-shirts, sweatshirts and jerseys. For the game-lover on your list, visit Games and More, which has an oversized selection of board games, card games, jigsaw puzzles, dice, toys and, as the name promises, more. The area surrounding the mall is a shopping destination all its own, with Whole Foods, Penzeys Spices and World Market offering foodies plenty with which to fill their shopping carts. Also, a shopper won’t drive far to find one of the many big-box stores which dot the West Des Moines landscape.

You’ll find designer jeans for sale at Blond Genius, a boutique in West Des Moines. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

WEST GLEN West Glen is a large complex featuring residential apartments, business offices, retail stores, bars and restaurants. It plays host to

large retail chain Target, but also to smaller specialty shops like Three Dog Bakery. The pet store sells premium, all-natural cookies, biscuits, bagels, chews, rawhides and wet and dry pet

Winestyles West Des Moines is like an Old World wine cellar: World-class wines, beers, cheese, chocolates, teas and accessories are available, as well as a knowledgeable staff to make recommendations. How better to pamper the females on your holiday shopping list than by sending them to the spa; the Spa at West Glen is prepared to indulge your loved one in a luxurious 5,300- square-foot facility that offers medical-grade skin care and body treatments.

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