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!
Iowa Wild
Your Iowa Wild are back on their home rink for their home opener on Saturday, October 11 to take on the Chicago Wolves. Celebrate the start of the season with magnet schedules for the first 1,500 fans and 2-for-1 Confluence Beers until puck drop. They are home again on Sunday, October 12 with a color your own hat station for the kids. These players will have you yelling gooooal!
Haunted Houses
Spooky season is officially back, and Greater Des Moines has your fright nights covered. Downtown, The Slaughterhouse is a go-to, known not just for its seasonal scares but year‑round escape rooms, speakeasies, and immersive horror vibes. Head to Phantom Fall Fest at Adventureland as it transforms the park into a multi‑haunt playground, complete with new scares in 2025 like “Spell Keeper,” multiple haunted houses and scare zones, plus family‑friendly fun by day. And don’t forget Sleepy Hollow’s Haunted Scream Park, which delivers multiple houses, a food court, and a full evening of fright in a classic scream‑park format. Need more spine‑tingling options? Check out our blog here.
IMT Des Moines Marathon
Run, Des Moines, run! The IMT Des Moines Marathon returns Sunday, October 19. Join in on the fun by running a full marathon, half marathon, or even a 5k. The course will take runners through the Sculpture Park, the iconic blue oval, Historic Valley Junction, downtown Des Moines, and so much more. If you don’t want to do the actual running, the event needs a ton of volunteers throughout the course. Hand out water, cheer the runners on, and more!
Halloween Pop Up Bars
If strolling through haunted houses isn’t your thing, maybe a Halloween pop up bar is more your style. Nightmare on Ingersoll is back with creepy cocktails and over-the-top décor, while Disturb, hidden behind Hello, Marjorie, leans into moody speakeasy vibes. Over at Exile, The Haunting takes over both floors with themed drinks and eerie ambiance. Whether you're in it for costumes, cocktails, or just the chills, these Halloween pop-ups are the perfect way to toast spooky season.
Paul McCartney
Sir Paul McCartney is making his grand return with the Got Back tour, landing at Casey’s Center on October 14, 2025. After last playing here in 2017, he’s bringing his full catalogue, Beatles, Wings, and solo back to the heartland, promising a night of timeless anthems and unforgettable moments. Limited tickets remain, so don’t miss your chance to see the legend himself.
The Empire
The newest restaurant in the former Fong’s location is officially open as of Thursday, October 4. At The Empire, the menu is packed with comforting, handcrafted favorites. The best part? Almost everything is $12 or under. You can grab their signature Empire (think of it as their take on a Runza) for $7 (or two for $12) or try the Rueben’s Rich Uncle with pastrami, pepper‑jack, slaw, and 1000 Island. Handhelds like Chicken Pot Pies, Hot Pastrami n’ Cheese, or Hot Turkey n’ Cheese bring nostalgic flavor for a great price. They’re also open in the morning for coffee and pastries, as well as for late night cravings. It’s all counter‑service, simple, bold, and easy on the wallet, perfect for exploring a few dishes without stressing the check.
Fairway Frank’s
Fairway Frank’s Bar & Grill is officially open in Norwalk, and it’s bringing big flavor and big energy to Main Street. You won’t just find burgers and wings (though theirs are winners), the menu also leans into Italian flair with hearty pastas, crisp salads, calzones, and specialty pizzas made with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. They have multiple TVs perfect for every big game, a bar full of cold brews and creative cocktails, and a warm, welcoming space that is sure to help it become one of Norwalk’s go‑to spots for food, fun, and flavor.
Judges DSM
Judges DSM is the fresh new spot on Court Avenue, and the name fits perfectly since it’s just steps from the courthouse. This sleek lounge nods to its legal‑themed surroundings with a polished yet approachable vibe. From craft cocktails made with house‑made syrups to shareable bites like Shoestring Fried Pickles and hearty eats like the Public Defender Burger, Judges blends local flavor with clever design. Whether you’re grabbing drinks after work or meeting up for dinner downtown, Judges DSM is ready to become a top choice for good times right in the city’s legal and nightlife hub.
