You're here to watch the best compete. We're here to help you find the best places to explore, shop, play, and eat while you’re here and have some down time. Here are five ways to explore the best of the metro between cheering on the best in the state.
1. Jordan Creek Town Center
See for yourself why Iowa natives flock to Jordan Creek Town Center when they’re looking for something to do! Venture out to West Des Moines to explore the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the state of Iowa. Boasting more than 150 stores, Jordan Creek Mall is one of the premier retail spaces in the country with popular stores like Anthropologie, Lululemon and more. The fun extends well beyond the mall. Hungry? There are options for every taste, including Giordano’s (classic Chicago deep dish), El Fogon (local Mexican fare that hits every time), and Hana Ramen Sushi (big bowls of steaming, savory ramen), just to name a few. If you didn’t get enough action at the tournament, unleash your inner competitor at indoor entertainment game venues like Spare Time, Putts & Pins, Dave and Busters, or Smash Park. Whatever you decide, the Jordan Creek area is your one-stop-shop for non-stop action!
2. Historic East Village
Looking for some shopping and dining a little closer to Casey’s Center? Hop over to the Historic East Village just a few blocks away across the river. East Village has the local boutique and hip eatery scene on lockdown. This walkable neighborhood has vibes for days, and the retailers to reflect that. Start by checking out nationally known and the Midwest’s #1 fan, Raygun, made famous for their edgy t-shirts including slogans like “Des Moines: French for The Moines” and “Des Moines: Hell Yes.” You can make stops at Sticks for beautiful art, Kin for unique jewelry and crystals, or AllSpice Culinarium for all the spices you can imagine. Grab a coffee at Vibrant Coffeehouse, lunch at the Iowa Taproom, dessert at Molly’s Cupcakes, and a nightcap at Bellhop, a tiki bar that will transport you to a warmer state of mind. Big Chiefs fan? Make sure to stop into Truman’s KC Pizza Tavern, the Des Moines outpost for everything KC (and really good, really creative pizza).
3. Science Center of Iowa
The Science Center of Iowa is a great way to beat the winter blues, especially if you have little ones along for the ride. But fun knows no age limit, so feel free to unleash your inner kid here with exhibits like “Why the Sky?”, featuring the Science Center’s own digital planetarium. And who doesn’t love a good interactive LEGO display? In fact, you can find all the latest happenings and exhibits with our blog, “Catch What’s Happening at the Science Center of Iowa,” which you can find here. Or check out our Des Best video here. Open Wednesday-Sunday!
4. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Need a break from the weather and hustle and bustle of the games? The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has summertime vibes and peace of mind, year-round. With over 1,000 species of exotic plants from around the world, the Botanical Garden offers plenty of opportunities for learning, as well as selfies with your favorite plant species. They also have Flora, a restaurant serving a locally sourced, plant-based menu. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.! Learn more about the Botanical Garden in our blog here.
5. Downtown Des Moines
If you aren’t wanting to venture too far, there is still a lot to be discovered in Downtown Des Moines. If the weather isn’t great, our vast skywalk system can get you to parts of the downtown area without being out in the elements! Otherwise, these attractions are completely walkable from all of the state tournament action. Check out what’s happening at the Civic Center, hosting critically acclaimed Broadway performances, concerts, and more. Keep heading south toward Court Avenue, home to a street full of bars and restaurants. Here, you can stop for a lunch break or dinner at Court Avenue Brewing for classic American fare or try something new with Vietnamese cuisine at Pho Real Kitchen & Bar. If you’re looking to blow off some steam after a day of competing, Ricochet (21+) is a game lounge with pool, darts, ping pong, corn hole, and so much more. Or let your competitive side really shine through at The Fat Putter in a game of indoor mini golf!
“Des Best” in Greater Des Moines Doesn’t Stop Here
Looking for more of the best? Check out our locally sourced Des Best lists and videos highlight all the WHAAATs and WHOOOAs around Greater Des Moines. From tapas to tenderloins, we've got you covered from the opening tip to the final buzzer. Find them at desbestdsm.com.
