Bars & Nightlife
Where To Have Fun After Hours in Greater Des Moines
Breweries & Wineries
We all know the Midwest is known for craft beer, so what better way to indulge than at one of the many local breweries in the area. Visit Big Grove Brewery and see the hype about what started as one location in Iowa has now blossomed into multiple across the region. Or check out Exile Brewing, where their Ruthie lager reigns as the most popular craft brew in our city. For those who like to try something unique, Lua Brewing’s patio is unbeatable and Confluence Brewing is always coming up with a new can’t-miss brew.
While that’s only a mere handful of the breweries in our city, check out what our locals have to say about which are the best.
For those with more refined palates, check out Jasper Winery near Gray’s Lake and Water Works Park. With a large outdoor patio, this place is busy when the weather is good. Otherwise, their indoor tasting room can be a great spot to try Iowa wines in a more intimate setting. Just a few miles south of Des Moines, Covered Bridges Winery in Winterset is everything you’d expect with good wine, live music, and a vast countryside view that can’t be beat.
Cocktail Bars
Des Moines after dark is shaken, not stirred. Cocktail bars are in abundance, and dare we say, are the prime spot to be after a dinner or show. Whether you’re looking for something hip and trendy, or a totally laid-back vibe, Des Moines has no shortage From James Beard semifinalist, The Contrary in the Historic East Village to USA Today-recognized The Bartender’s Handshake off of Ingersoll, our cocktail bar scene is legendary. Visit Hello, Marjorie for fruity drinks and a low light, speakeasy atmosphere. Or for something more vibrant, Revival House off of Court Ave is your tiki bar destination.
Dive Bars
Sometimes all you need to really feel like a local is to pull up a barstool at a dive bar. In Des Moines, there’s no shortage of this kind of vibe. Take Ernie’s Boondock in the Historic East Village for example, always bustling, with their own burger truck always parked and ready to serve the late-night crowds. Or Carl’s Place a definite hidden gem with pool, darts, and graffitied walls of Des Moines past and present. For a true Midwestern-style tavern, The High Life Lounge pours brews and serves up some of des best comfort food.
Make the Most Out of Your Trip to Des Moines
Chances are if you’re visiting Des Moines, you’re coming for an event or to see one of our many attractions. So, why not make the most of your day? After the sun goes down, the Greater Des Moines area is full of entertainment to keep you going until bar close. Don’t believe us? Check out what our locals deem are the best bars in the metro or take a look at any of our itineraries to make your trip an entire experience.
