A Weekend in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa

Where to Stay

Hotel Fort Des Moines, a century old hotel restored to its heyday, provides a comfortable place to stay, with touches of old luxury. Placed on the National Historic Registry in 1982, this landmark has had a variety of notable guests from Elvis to Obama. Dining options include Hobnob serving breakfast and lunch, Proudfoot and Bird for an elegant dinner, and In Confidence for an evening cocktail.

The Aparium Hotel Group recently remodeled a historic twelve story beaux-arts building, now home to the Surety Hotel. The hotel has dining options including the Mulberry St.Tavern and an outdoor courtyard with bites, drinks and live music during the warmer months. There are often events and classes held within the various meeting areas, so be sure to check the schedule to see what’s happening.

Attractions

From May to October, downtown Des Moines hosts one of the top rated farmer’s markets in the United States. The Iowa State Fair is held each year in August and is worth a visit for a glimpse into midwestern farm culture, foods on a stick and various concerts and entertainment options.

For live music, Noce has shows Wednesday through Sunday with a focus on jazz. Wooly’s in the East Village is a more casual venue that hosts a variety of genres and all ages concerts. Hoyt Sherman Theatre and the Civic Center help to fill the calendar with performing arts events.

Two popular summer festivals include 80-35 and Hinterland. Both host local and national artists and food and drink vendors, in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Shopping & Galleries

One of my favorite things to do when traveling is to visit a local art museum or gallery. The Des Moines Art Center is a free destination with renowned permanent collections and rotating current exhibitions. The Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a four-acre public space in the city, with famous works of art from artists like Keith Haring and Yayoi Kusama. Mainframe Studios hosts monthly First Friday events, with a variety of themes and open studio hours.

The East Village is a sanctuary of locally owned shops and restaurants. Marne, Jane’s and Kin are notable mentions. If you don’t mind driving a few minutes west, there are other hot spots of the city including Ingersoll, with beautifully curated boutiques such as Wildflower and Preservation and to the north Highland Park has gems including Des Moines Mercantile, Art Terrarium and The Collective.

Restaurants & Bars

Homegrown serves breakfast and lunch seven days a week and partners with several local producers to provide fresh quality ingredients. For a mid-morning or afternoon pick me up, try Horizon Line Coffee or Daisy Chain, both locally owned small businesses with a community feel and delicious coffee. There are several lunch options in the area, including Clyde’s Fine Diner, Open Sesame and Lua Brewery. 

Aposto is a charming spot to grab an Italian dinner in the city. Set in a 17th Century Victorian mansion, the surroundings provide a homey yet elevated space to enjoy a meal. 503 Cocktail Lab + Tasting Room is another dinner option with small plates and an innovative cocktail menu. For an after-dinner drink head to The Cave, a natural wine bar with live music Fridays and carefully selected vinyl from around the world the rest of the week. Other fun bars in the vicinity include 85 Bar, Bellhop Tiki and Up-Down.