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!
The Pumpkin Express
Your ride has turned into a pumpkin when you hop on board The Pumpkin Express at the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad and Museum. The hour and a half long train ride will take you out to a pumpkin patch where you can pick your perfect pumpkin. Feel free to wear your favorite costume on the ride. The Pumpkin Express will operate October 1, 8, and 15.
Iowa Wild
Your Iowa Wild are back on their home rink for their home opener on October 14. This is the Iowa Wild’s 10th season, and they already have a lot in store for their fans. You can watch both the Iowa Wild and Minnesota Wild practice at Wells Fargo Arena on October 11. These players will have you yelling gooooal!
Chippy’s
Get a real taste of Britain at Chippy’s when they open their doors on October 22. Chippy’s is a British Market and Gift Shop offering food and beverages that have been imported from across the pond. If you’ve had a taste of something from England and are wanting more or just interested in trying a sausage roll or frosted fancies, Chippy’s is your stop.
Phantom Fall Fest
Adventureland Park is open after dark! Enjoy their brand-new Phantom Fall Fest weekends, September 30 – October 30. During the day, Adventureland will have family-friendly fun, festive food, and plenty of rides and rollercoasters to enjoy. Once the sun goes down, the scaring begins. With four haunted houses and three scare zones, you’re sure to scream. Plus, watch out for the creepy characters exploring the park alongside visitors. Purchase tickets online for as low as $35!
Trestle to Trestle Bridge
A favorite bridge connecting Des Moines has officially reopened! When the bridge over Beaver Creek collapsed in 2019 from an ice jam, riders have had to take a detour near Beaver Avenue, often seen as unsafe. With the new bridge finally open, riders can safely take the 3.75-mile route from Trestle to Trestle. The new bridge has been built to better withstand weather threats. They also worked to honor the bridge’s history as a former railroad track with the design of it. With winter soon approaching, take the family out on a bike ride and experience the brand-new bridge!
Waffles and Whip
Waffles on a stick, from an adorable, converted horse trailer, do we really need to say more? We will. Waffles and Whip is a food truck that you can find popping up around Greater Des Moines. They serve up a full waffle on a stick with a variety of toppings. Check out their Facebook page to see where you can snag a Can’t Crunch This or Breakfast of Champs waffle.
Haunted Scream Park
Sleepy Hollow Haunted Scream Park is returning for 2022! One of the largest and most elaborate Halloween theme parks in Iowa, the park is sure to please. With seven different scare attractions, there’s something for everyone. Explore one of Sleepy Hollow’s most popular attractions, Freakshow, for a scare with clowns and creatures or take a walk through the Terror in the Trees. Open weekends through October from 7 p.m. – Midnight.
30hop
A favorite in Coralville and Cedar Rapids restaurant is making its way to Ankeny in early October. Specializing in seasonal menus and rotating craft beers, 30hop is sure to be a new favorite. Open for lunch and dinner, as well as brunch on the weekends, their extensive menu has something for everyone. Try one of their signature bowls or a burger or even tacos. Plus, their extensive cocktail menu has you set for their happy hour every Sunday – Thursday from 3 – 6 p.m. Look for their doors opening the first couple of weeks in October!
