ABOUT THE WRITER

Megan Bannister is a Des Moines transplant who loves classic Midwestern dining (hello, supper club vibes) and wholeheartedly subscribes to “little treat culture.” 

Every chapter of fun unfolds at Jordan Creek in West Des Moines, where shopping sprees and golf tees set the scene.

While it may seem like downtown Des Moines has all the action, there are plenty of reasons to venture west. With adventurous amenities, ample accommodations, and epic eateries, this part of the metro — the western edge of West Des Moines, anchored by the sprawling Jordan Creek Town Center — is a bustling destination for families, couples, and a friends weekend getaway. Whether you’re seeking a staycation or visiting from out of town, this part of West Des Moines is full of opportunities to indulge in a little retail therapy, treat yourself, and play like you’re a kid again.

Shop Hop

One thing is for sure: There’s no shortage of spots to shop in the Jordan Creek area. With burgeoning boutiques and well-known national chains, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for (and then some) at this retail mecca. Start your shopping excursion at Jordan Creek Town Center, Iowa’s biggest and best shopping destination with two floors and more than 100 national retailers. This isn’t a sleepy remnant of a bygone shopping era; it’s a lively and modern gathering place that rocks as hard as premium malls did before the internet age. Whether you’re in the market to update your wardrobe, outfit your home, or upgrade your technology, this mall has a selection you won’t find anywhere else in the state.

Find your personal style at popular stores like Anthropologie, H&M, Madewell, and Urban Outfitters. Or shop for some new specs at the brick-and-mortar location for eyewear brand Warby Parker. Find accessories, equipment, apparel, and everything you need for an active lifestyle at stores like Scheels and Lululemon. Don’t forget to add a little fun to your spree with a stop at the Lego Store or by checking out the latest gadgets at the Apple Store.

A trip to Jordan Creek Town Center is all about treating yourself. Maintain your shopping stamina with bonbons and gelato from Chocolaterie Stam, a local favorite since setting up shop in 1997. And if you go to a mall without stopping at Auntie Anne’s, were you really even there? If you haven’t gotten enough steps in, hit up the pond outside the mall and snap a selfie with your haul.

The area’s sensational shopping doesn’t stop there. With big box retailers like Costco, Target, and Walmart and sporting goods favorites like Dick’s Sporting Goods and REI, there are plenty of places to explore outside of the mall complex. Before you go, don’t forget to stock up on must-have snacks at Trader Joe’s. Almond Butter Almonds and Unexpected Cheddar for the win.

Game On

The fun doesn’t stop when you set down your shopping bags. The Jordan Creek area is full of spots to keep the good times rolling with games for players of all ages and energy levels. With both indoor and outdoor attractions, you’ll find plenty of places to play, no matter the season. Get the swing of pickleball or test your axe throwing accuracy at Smash Park. Here, bigger is better. This pickleball paradise boasts Iowa’s largest patio (named one of our Des Best, of course) and is also the home of Big Blue, the world’s largest pickleball paddle. If hitting the links is more your speed, head to Topgolf where 70 all-weather driving range bays await for you to take aim at an awesome afternoon. If you’re less focused on improving your swing, Topgolf has a full restaurant and bar (hello injectable doughnut holes!), plus ample patio seating.

Now that you’re on a roll, it’s time to hit the arcade (and enjoy the AC) with a family-friendly competition at Dave & Buster’s. Classics are paired with arcade innovation for an experience that’s sure to level up your weekend. Trying to get out of a date night rut? Test your puzzle-solving skills with an interactive escape room at Spare Time. There is no wrong answer for fun (but you need the right answer to get out of that escape room first and make it to dinner).

Dig In

It’s no secret that the Des Moines metro is home to culinary hot spots, and the Jordan Creek area is no exception. No matter your mood or the time of day, you’re sure to find a menu to match in this part of the metro.

Start your day with coffee at Barista’s Bouquet, a combination coffee bar and floral shop that brims with bright blooms. Or opt  for a sweeter start at Mahalo’s Coffee & Mini Donuts, which serves more than a dozen flavors of mini doughnuts in addition to a full menu of coffee drinks and other beverages. If you’re in the mood for a more substantial breakfast, restaurants like The Breakfast Club and HomeGrown serve heartier fare (breakfast corn dogs and espresso martinis, anyone?) to help you fuel up for a busy day.

When it comes to restaurants, Midwest classics shine in this part of the metro. Celebrate a special occasion at local spots like Prime & Providence (the Japanese beef flight is pure decadence) or Irina’s Steak & Seafood or snag a reservation at national expense card favorites like Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Looking for something fun and family friendly? Giordano’s is a staple for a reason, slinging deep-dish Chicago pies with truly legendary cheese pulls.

No passport? No problem. You can enjoy all sorts of international flavors without leaving the 515 area code. Every bite is bursting with flavor at Persis Biryani Indian Grill, and you’ll find all sorts of creative Japanese cuisine at Hana Ramen Sushi. Yes, we have good sushi in Iowa! And don’t miss one of the newest dining gems — KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot, where you get to play chef. Grill marinated meats right at your table or simmer your picks in a bubbling hot pot, with nearly 100 fresh ingredients and sauces to mix and match. It’s a hands-on, social dining experience that’s as fun as it is flavorful.

If it feels wrong to turn in for the night without a sweet treat, fear not. Local gem Home Sweet Cone scoops up more than 60 flavors of homemade ice cream just east of the mall.

MEGAN’S LOCAL HACKS AND FAVES

Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, these are my tried and true tips for making the most of your time out west:

PARK SMART: Skip the crowds and park near the Von Maur or Scheels entrance to easily enter the mall.

TREAT YOURSELF: I’ve never met a dessert I didn’t like, but sometimes cravings strike at inopportune times. Thankfully, Hurts Donut Co. in nearby West Glen Town Center is open 24 hours, which means I can indulge in a brownie doughnut no matter the hour.

FIND REEL DEALS: If you’re headed to the Cinemark Century Jordan Creek 20 and XD, my favorite day to catch a flick is on Discount Tuesdays.

RAISE THE STEAKS: While it may be a local name, Prime & Providence is one of only four restaurants in the country to serve specialty Nakimi beef from Japan. The Sunday Dinner for Two special is a great value, offering a salad, choice cut, two sides, and dessert to share for just $99.

BEYOND JORDAN CREEK

Jordan Creek may be the region’s retail powerhouse, but shopping adventures don’t stop there. Cool neighborhoods and can’t-miss districts across the metro are filled with finds worth bagging up:

• Outlets of Des Moines (Altoona)

• The District at Prairie Trail (Ankeny)

• Historic East Village (Des Moines)

• The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand (Des Moines)

• Historic Valley Junction (West Des Moines)

• West Glen Town Center (West Des Moines)

Looking for even more of an inside look to Jordan Creek? Check out our Des Best video HERE.

This is just one of many features from our 2026 Visitors Guide. To read more, request a hard copy or flip through the digital version HERE.