Norwalk

Tucked just south of Des Moines, Norwalk is the kind of small town that sneaks up on you in the best way. Whether you're chasing the scent of wood-fired pizza, the buzz of a local festival, or the perfect park to stretch your legs, Norwalk brings the charm – with a cherry (or mini donut) on top. And hey, if you feel like Norwalk has movie star energy…you’re not wrong. Jason Momoa himself hails from these humble streets. So don’t be surprised if your trip includes Aquaman-level adventure, and charm.

Food and Drink 

Norwalk doesn’t mess around when it comes to flavor. If you’re craving cocktails and culinary creativity, the newly opened Cooper’s Central Table & Cocktail sets the bar (literally) with inventive drinks and a menu that balances upscale bites with casual comfort. For a more laid-back scene, Sunset Lounge is your go-to for end-of-day unwinding (and lowkey one of the best smashburgers in the region). Bonus: it’s adults only. For bold flavors with a retro twist, The Flamingo Lounge brings Miami vibes to the Midwest, serving colorful cocktails and playful plates in a setting that’s as fun as it is flavorful. And Fairway Franks, a new sports bar with 30+ TVs, blends classic bar fare with Italian flair. Think loaded appetizers, handcrafted pizzas, and the “Flamin’ Fairway,” a sandwich worth writing home about. If pizza’s still calling your name, Winn’s Pizza and Steakhouse is the kind of place where the cheese stretches and the portions satisfy. And at 1908 Draught House, big flavor meets small-town charm with crave-worthy burgers, cold craft brews, and good vibes on tap.

Arts and Culture 

Norwalk’s creativity isn’t tucked away in studios – it’s out in the open. Art in the Park brings artists and neighbors together in a celebration of color, expression, and community, turning public spaces into pop-up galleries each year. Driving that creative spirit year-round is Norwalk Hometown Pride, a group dedicated to beautifying and energizing the community through public art, local projects, and that unmistakable Norwalk pride. It’s the kind of grassroots effort that turns a city into a canvas. And when the curtain rises at the Norwalk Performing Arts Center, you’ll see that talent runs deep here. From musicals to dramatic productions and student showcases, this local gem brings arts and culture center stage.

Parks and Outdoor Fun 

Nature lovers and weekend warriors, rejoice, because Norwalk’s green spaces are anything but ordinary. Anchoring the city’s recreation scene is The Gregg Young Auto Sports Complex, a cutting-edge destination for athletes and families. Set to open in the winter of 2025, Sportsplex Norwalk – part of the complex – features more than 11,000 square feet of field turf where sports lovers of all ages sharpen their skills and practice at a new state-of-the-art facility. Right next door, the City State Bank Norwalk Fieldhouse keeps the action going with indoor courts and a community-first atmosphere. After breaking a sweat, head over to nearby Mullets for a post-game meal that’s as quirky as it is delicious (the name alone deserves a round of applause). Then test your aim at Pin High Sports Bar, where golf simulators, bowling lanes, darts, and pool tables turn friendly competition into all out fun.

Come winter, the Norwalk Outdoor Ice Rink becomes the town’s coolest hangout, literally. Whether you’re a pro skater or still learning how to fall gracefully, it’s the perfect place to glide into seasonal fun. Families flock to Warrior Park for its action-packed obstacle course, a playground that gives “recess” a serious upgrade. And if you’re looking for a park that’s equal parts peaceful and playful, Windflower Park is your next stop. With open green space, trails for walking or running, and a charming neighborhood feel, it’s the kind of spot that invites you to stay awhile. It’s also home to one of the city’s best-kept secrets: An 18-hole disc golf course that winds through gentle hills and mature trees. Whether you're a first-time flinger or a seasoned pro, it's the perfect place to toss some discs and soak up some sun.

Festivals and Events 

There’s something special about a town that knows how to party. Norwalk’s events calendar is packed with small-town charm and big-time fun. Kick off summer at the Celebrate Norwalk 4th of July event, where fireworks light up the sky and community spirit fills the streets. Every week, May to October, the Norwalk Farmers Market brings together local vendors, fresh produce, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for stocking your pantry and catching up with neighbors. Music fans will love the Norwalk Music Fest, where local bands and good vibes take over town. And when the holidays roll around, Lights of Love transforms Norwalk into a twinkling winter wonderland. It’s heartfelt, it’s festive, and it’s a reminder that the best traditions often start close to home.

Attractions and Things to Do 

Need more reasons to fall for Norwalk? The Rose Farm is a floral fantasy where seasonal blooms, cozy events, and scenic views make for picture-perfect moments. Whether you're planning a girls’ trip, date day, or solo retreat, it's a breath of fresh, petal-perfumed air. Sign up for one of their workshops that includes art, food, and of course, flowers. Golfers can tee up at Echo Valley Country Club and The Legacy Golf Club, both offering beautifully manicured courses that are as relaxing as they are challenging. And if you're up for a little side adventure, just a short drive away in the charming town of Cumming, you’ll find Iowa Distilling Company – perfect for a whiskey tasting – and Middlebrook Mercantile, a curated shop full of wine, gifts, and local finds.

Des Best of Norwalk

1908 Draught House – Best Patios, Best Sports Bars
The Rose Farm – Best Pumpkin Patches and Apple Orchards, Best Hidden Gems (Part 2)
Winn’s Pizza and Steakhouse – Best Hot Beef
Cooper’s Central Table and Cocktails – Best Hidden Gems (Part 3)