Just west of downtown Des Moines, the Drake Neighborhood is full of historic charm with a distinctly youthful energy. Anchored by Drake University, this area is where stately homes and student life collide (also being affectionately known as “Dogtown”, named after Drake’s bulldog mascot, Griff). Whether you’re here for Drake Relays, a university visit, a quick coffee, or a quiet stroll past century-old houses, Drake offers a little slice of everything. 

The Local Whisper: Griff the Bulldog has an Instagram account, and we HIGHLY recommend you give it a follow.

First Impressions 

The vibe hits as soon as you park your car and step outside. Everything is laid back, but alive. Tree-lined streets frame early 20th-century homes, some having been meticulously restored and others comfortably lived in. It’s equal parts college town and a classic Midwestern neighborhood. 

The Local Whisper: Built around Drake University in 1881, this neighborhood is one of the oldest and most diverse in Des Moines. 

Local Flavors  

If this neighborhood had a taste, it would be a fresh smoothie paired with something slightly unexpected, like global street food or vegan comfort classics. The Drake area is full of college town classics, with a diverse twist that pays homage to the historic area and the international students that attend the university.  

Start your morning or catch a midday caffeine buzz at Mars Café, a local staple known for its artsy vibe and creative cafe options. Not a coffee drinker? No worries! Lifestyle Juices has become a Drake necessity, having recently expanded to serve even more customers. They blend the freshest fruits and veggies for a power-packed smoothie you can feel good about. For something heartier, University Library Cafe delivers indulgent comfort food (including the best nachos, it’s those flour tortillas) in a setting that is part student hang out and part townie dive bar. And some of the best burgers in town reside in Drake at Lucky Horse Beer & Burgers. 

If you’re looking to dip your toes into a cuisine that’s totally diverse, Gursha Ethiopian Grill brings bold, rich Ethiopian flavors to the heart of the Midwest. Or stick to the classics at Drake Diner, a blast from the past serving up pancakes, eggs, bacon, and neon diner vibes all day (and night) long. And if you’re looking for a pint to finish off a day well spent in the neighborhood, look no further than Peggy’s Tavern, loved by both students and residents. 

The Local Whisper: Mars Café turns into a low-key nightlife spot in the evening — same cozy space, totally different energy.

The Scene 

Just west of downtown Des Moines, the Drake neighborhood buzzes with laid-back, creative energy anchored by Drake University. There’s a steady rhythm here of early mornings starting with laptops and lattes at Mars Cafe, afternoons bringing pickup frisbee games near Drake Stadium, and evenings leaning into live music, open mics, or catching a film at Varsity Cinema. There’s a strong sense of community, with locals walking dogs, biking tree-lined streets, and chatting on front porches. 

The Local Whisper: Check out Drake neighborhood’s newest addition, Shelf Love DSM, a romance themed bookstore for your next read. 

The People 

The Drake neighborhood is a mix of college students, long-time residents, artists, and young professionals all sharing the same few blocks. You might run into a biology major heading to their next lecture, a local artist selling prints at a pop-up, or a neighbor who’s lived here for 40 years and knows everyone by name. This neighborhood truly spans between generations. 

Des Best: Live Like a Local 

If you want to feel like you actually belong here, here are what the locals are saying are some of the best foods, finds, and spaces in the Drake Neighborhood. 

Catch all of the best in every Greater Des Moines neighborhood by checking out our full Des Best lists here.

Neighborhood Happenings 

Late April 

The biggest event that takes place within the Drake neighborhood is the annual Drake Relays at Drake University. This event brings in thousands of spectators and hundreds of track and field athletes from across the country and helps athletes qualify for prestigious races and events. Before the relays, the entire Greater Des Moines comes together to offer pre-relay events to generate community support and fanfare before the kickoff.  

All Year Long 

This college community is no stranger to athletic events that happen all year round. Catch Drake University football in the fall, men’s and women’s basketball in the winter, softball and soccer in the spring and summer, and everything in between. Drake fans adorn their blue and white at each event, cheering on "Des Moines’ Hometown Team” no matter what collegiate sport it may be. You might even get lucky and catch Griff at one of the games! 

Top Tips 

  • Parking: Street parking is generally easy to find, especially a block or two off the main strips, but watch for posted restrictions during university events.  

  • Walkability: This is one of Des Moines’ most walkable neighborhoods. Once you park, you can comfortably explore on foot.  

  • Best time to visit: Late morning through early evening gives you the full vibe with coffee culture, campus energy, and a chill dinner to round out the day. 

  • When school is in session: Expect more energy (and more crowds). Summers are quieter but still charming and full of life.