Each month, we highlight the most buzzworthy places and events in Greater Des Moines in a feature we call Des Buzz. It's your “in the know” list of places to go!
Rail Explorers
Nestled in the picturesque Boone River Valley, Rail Explorers is reopening for the season on April 5. These pedal-powered vehicles allow you to glide along historic railroad tracks, offering a fun and unique way to explore the landscape. Choose from a tandem or quad rail explorer, each equipped with a motor to make pedaling effortless. The 12.5-mile round trip offers stunning views, including the impressive 156-foot Bass Point Creek High Trestle Bridge. Tours are available throughout the day, with a special sunset tour perfect for capturing breathtaking photos.
Drake Relays
On your mark, get set, go... to the excitement of the Drake Relays! The action kicks off with the thrilling Drake Road Races and the charming Beautiful Bulldog competition, followed by the highly anticipated USATF 1-Mile Championships, where athletes will once again aim for a world record on April 22. The excitement continues April 23 with the Men’s World Shot Put Series, leading into a full day of adrenaline-pumping events. Don’t miss a moment of this iconic week of competition – check out this year’s schedule of events here.
Hawaiian Bros
Looking for a taste of paradise in Greater Des Moines? Hawaiian Bros has you covered with their new storefront in Waukee. Known for their flavorful, island-inspired plates, Hawaiian Bros serves up heaping portions of rice, creamy macaroni salad, and a wide selection of mouthwatering entrees like their signature Honolulu chicken, tender slow-roasted Kalua pork, and more. The best part? The Dole Whip for dessert. Visit them at 1005 SE Alice's Road in Waukee for a tropical experience.
Wild Lights Festival
The annual Wild Lights Festival is lighting up the Blank Park Zoo every Wednesday through Sunday, from April 5 to May 26. This after-hours event features more than 50 larger-than-life, illuminated Asian lanterns, showcasing stunning art installations of animals, insects, plants, and more. Visitors can also enjoy interactive exhibits and a private igloo experience, with plenty of opportunities for the best selfies. The festival runs from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Pro tip: For the best views, visit after sunset.
Treehouse Village
The Treehouse Village at the Iowa Arboretum is officially open for the season, inviting visitors to step into a whimsical world nestled among the towering trees of Madrid. This enchanting collection of treehouses offers a perfect blend of fun and education, showcasing sustainable building practices while immersing guests in the natural beauty of the surroundings. It’s a place where children of all ages and abilities can come together, explore, and play in the heart of nature. While you’re there, take the time to wander through the arboretum’s expansive 400 acres, filled with lush gardens, scenic trails, and so much more.
Fong’s East Village
A beloved local institution, Fong’s Pizza has a new home in Des Moines’ Historic East Village, opening its doors on April 1 at 317 E Court Avenue (the former Peace Tree Brewing location). The new spot will feature all your classic favorites like Crab Rangoon pizza, Kung Pao chicken pizza, and pizza egg rolls, along with exciting new additions such as coconut shrimp, pork potstickers, and orange chicken. With an expanded seating area and a vibrant atmosphere, the space is also adorned with a giant Chinese dragon hanging from the former Spaghetti Works building and artwork from the original Fong’s, making it a perfect blend of old and new.
Iowa Barnstormers
Des Moines’ favorite arena football team, the Iowa Barnstormers are bringing the action back to Wells Fargo on April 5 for their season home opener against the Quad City Steamwheelers. With just eight regular season home games, you won’t want to miss seeing a game. The Barnstormers provide a fun, high-paced football game that keeps you entertained all game long! Tickets start at $22. We hear the best seats are right next to the action.
Nos Books
A new independent, family-run bookstore has officially opened in the Drake Neighborhood. Nos Books offers a carefully curated selection of books that celebrate diversity, inclusivity, and cultural awareness. "Nos" means "us" in Spanish, reflecting the store's mission to build a sense of community. Nos Books is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at 1163 24th Street.
