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Quintessential Des Moines 

If you only have one weekend in Des Moines, make it count. This itinerary rounds up the can't-miss restaurants, neighborhoods, attractions, and local favorites that capture the city's personality, and just might have you planning your next trip before this one is over.

FRIDAY EVENING

Kick off your weekend at Lua Brewing, a woman-owned brewery in Sherman Hill that’s become one of the biggest names in American craft beer. Twice named USA Today’s Best Brewpub in the country, Lua has earned a devoted following for its bold sours, hop-forward pale ales, and light lagers, even winning over that relative that just wants a beer that tastes like Busch Light. Their kitchen serves (an underrated) brunch, lunch, and dinner, with a menu that stands on its own, making it just as much a dining destination as a brewery. Start your Friday evening with a Continental, a traditional side-pull lager that takes 7-8 minutes to pour and is worth every second. With its warm, modern atmosphere, one of the best patios in Des Moines, and skyline views of 801 Grand, it’s the perfect place to start the weekend.

Speaking of 801 Grand, you’ll find one of Des Moines’ premier dining destinations inside the city’s tallest building. At 801 Chophouse, indulge in elevated classics like jumbo lump crab cakes, seared scallops, and because you’re in Iowa, a perfectly pink ribeye, the state’s unofficial cut of beef.  If you're watching your wallet (but not necessarily your waistline), opt for a plate of Broasted chicken at High Life Lounge with a side of bacon-wrapped Tater tots – both delicacies were made famous on an episode of “Man vs. Food.” Wash it all down with an old-school classic like Hamm’s, PBR, or Miller High Life (duh), or if craft beer is more your speed, El Bait Shop is across the hallway (sharing the same food menu) and features more than 250 taps...251 to be exact, but who’s counting?  

Need some entertainment before the nightlife begins? Casey’s Center is Greater Des Moines’ premier venue for major concerts, welcoming everyone from chart-topping country artists and hip-hop stars to legendary rock bands and pop acts. It’s also home to several of Des Moines’ pro sports teams, including the Iowa Wild, the Iowa Wolves, and the Iowa Barnstormers, making it worth checking the event calendar no matter when you’re in town.

When the show lets out, the party is just getting started. If you're looking for a lively, high-energy scene, make your way to Court Avenue, the heart of downtown nightlife, where bars, clubs, and patios keep the party going well into the evening. For a more subdued but no less enjoyable evening, you'll find the Historic East Village just over the river. This walkable neighborhood is bursting with hip bars and chic eateries, along with places great for groups, like Up-Down, a local “barcade” where you can level up the evening with a round of classic arcade games and craft beer. Before leaving The East Village, make a mental note to swing by RAYGUN later in the weekend. This irreverent Iowa-born T-shirt shop has become a destination in its own right, with clever Midwest-inspired apparel, gifts, and souvenirs you'll actually want to take home.

Before calling it a night, grab a late-night slice of Crab Rangoon pizza at Fong's Pizza. Any Des Moines-ian will tell you the Crab Rangoon Pizza can't be beaten and Food Network star Alton Brown even bestowed the honor of dubbing this pie "best thing I ever ate!" While you're there, don't skip the quintessential Des Moines photo op: throw on a fighter pilot helmet and sip one of Fong's signature tiki drinks. 

SATURDAY 

There's no better way to spend a Saturday morning than at the Downtown Des Moines Farmers' Market, one of the largest and most celebrated markets in the country. Held every Saturday from May through October, the Market stretches 12 city blocks and brings together more than 300 vendors selling everything from fresh produce, flowers, and artisan goods to mouthwatering prepared foods. Grab a gourmet grilled cheese, biscuits and gravy, an authentic arepa, or a fresh tamale as you wander the bustling streets, stopping to browse local makers and watch street performers along the way. And no trip to the Farmer’s Market would be complete without the requisite photo holding sunflowers or a pineapple drink with the historic courthouse in the background.

At the east end of the market, continue your morning with a leisurely stroll along the Principal Riverwalk. This 1.2-mile trail winds through the heart of downtown, connecting both sides of the Des Moines River with scenic pedestrian bridges, public art, and skyline views. Along the way, you'll pass Lauridsen Skatepark, the largest skatepark in the nation, where even non-skaters will enjoy watching talented riders tackle bowls, rails, and the skateable WOW sculpture. Live dangerously...vicariously. As you make your way along the river, be sure to glance west from the Grand Avenue bridge for a view of the glowing red Traveler's Umbrella, one of Des Moines' most recognizable landmarks.  

No visit to Iowa’s capital city is complete without a visit to the magnificent Iowa State Capitol. Frequently ranked among the country's most beautiful capitol buildings, its 23-karat gold dome overlooks the downtown skyline. Take a free guided or self-guided tour to admire the grand rotunda, explore the historic law library with its towering spiral staircases (yes, it really does feel like Beauty and the Beast), and browse one of the world's largest collections of historic dolls.

Next, head back downtown to Pappajohn Sculpture Park, where more than 30 works by internationally acclaimed artists are scattered across 4.4 acres of green space. Don't leave without stepping inside Nomade, the towering sculpture made entirely of metal letters, for one of Des Moines' most iconic photo ops. If you're in the mood for even more art, the nearby Des Moines Art Center offers free admission and an impressive collection of contemporary works housed in buildings designed by three legendary architects.

Cap off the evening with a handcrafted cocktail at one of Des Moines' standout bars. Sip the legendary Godfather at Hello, Marjorie, settle into the intimate atmosphere (and astroturf patio) at Bartender's Handshake, or head to The Contrary, a James Beard Award semifinalist where inventive cocktails are every bit as memorable as the space itself. It's the perfect toast to an unforgettable Saturday. 

SUNDAY 

One last morning, one last legendary breakfast. Waveland Café. is the quintessential Des Moines diner, where the coffee is always hot, the hash browns are always crispy, and the waitstaff probably knows half the room by name. It's a favorite of locals and celebrities alike; Jason Momoa famously stops in whenever he's back home in Norwalk, ordering "The Momoa," a hearty plate piled high with hash browns, biscuits and gravy, and two eggs. 

No Sunday in Des Moines is complete without experiencing the city's award-winning craft beer scene. The best way to do it? Hop on a bike and explore portions of central Iowa's 800-plus miles of connected trails, which conveniently link many of the area's breweries. Ride past Gray's Lake to Confluence Brewing and order a pint of the brewery's flagship Des Moines IPA, or cruise over to Water Works Park, home to the lively Des Moines Biergarten. Grab a German-style lager beneath the trees, listen to live music if you're lucky, and soak in one of the city's favorite outdoor gathering spots. Prefer to sample breweries from across the state in one stop? Iowa Taproom pours more than 99 Iowa beers from over 30 breweries, and while you're there, don't skip the award-winning jalapeño poppers, or an order of Iowa ham balls for the full Midwestern experience. 

Before heading home, spend a few hours exploring the Ingersoll District, affectionately known as Restaurant Row. This lively neighborhood is packed with acclaimed eateries, local shops, and dive bars with character (and characters), making it the perfect place to savor one last taste of Des Moines. Splurge on a veggie-forward meal at Harbinger, experience the city's buzziest dining destination at Oak Park, grab one of Iowa's best smash burgers at Lachele's Fine Foods, or indulge in an elevated grilled cheese (and maybe a bowl of tomato soup) at The Cheese Bar. If you'd rather pair dinner with a show, The Ingersoll Dinner Theatre serves up live music, musicals, and comedy alongside your entrée.

Hanging out for another day? 

Well, then we're just getting started! Now that you have a small taste of some of the local favorites that Des Moines has to offer, check out our "Best of the Burbs" Itinerary for additional ideas around the metro. 

The Quintessential Des Moines Itinerary: Family Edition 

If you’re in Greater Des Moines with kids, you’re in luck! Greater Des Moines is packed with family-friendly adventures that are just as fun for parents as they are for little ones.  

Start in West Des Moines at Jordan Creek Town Center, where you'll find great shopping, plenty of dining options, and entertainment ranging from Topgolf and Smash Park to movie theaters and seasonal events. 

Next, head to Blank Park Zoo, where you can come face-to-face with lions, giraffes, red pandas, and more than 1,500 animals from around the world. Don't miss the new lion conservation center or the chance to feed the giraffes for an unforgettable up-close encounter. 

For curious minds, spend an afternoon exploring the Science Center of Iowa located downtown. With hands-on exhibits covering everything from space and weather to engineering and Iowa's natural world, it's the kind of place where kids can learn without realizing they're learning. 

Ready to turn up the excitement? Wrap up your trip at Adventureland in Altoona, where roller coasters, family rides, and Adventure Bay Water Park deliver a full day of thrills, splashes, and classic summer fun.

Don’t miss these quintessential Des Moines festivals, events, and attractions!  

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden — Escape to a lush tropical oasis, where the conservatory stays a balmy 80 degrees year-round. 
Drake Relays — Every April, the Blue Oval welcomes Olympians, world champions, and future stars for one of the nation's most storied track and field meets.
Iowa Cubs Baseball — Cheer on the Chicago Cubs' Triple-A affiliate at Principal Park, one of the best minor league ballparks in America. 
CelebrAsian — Celebrate Asian cultures each May with authentic cuisine, live performances, and cultural experiences in Western Gateway Park. 
Capital City Pride Festival — One of the Midwest's largest Pride celebrations fills downtown with a colorful parade, live entertainment, and community festivities each June. 
Better Homes & Gardens Test Garden — Step inside the magazine pages at this meticulously maintained downtown garden, open to the public on select summer days. 
Des Moines Arts Festival — This nationally acclaimed June festival combines world-class artists, live music, and incredible food in the heart of downtown. 
Iowa State Fair — Nothing compares to 11 days of butter cows, giant slides, legendary people-watching, and every food imaginable on a stick each August.  
Hinterland — Set against the rolling hills just south of Des Moines, this beloved festival pairs major headliners with tomorrow's biggest artists in an unforgettable countryside setting.
World Food and Music Festival — Taste your way around the globe each August with international cuisine, live music, and cultural performances. 
Latino Heritage Festival — Celebrate the rich cultures of Latin America each September through music, dance, art, and authentic cuisine. 
Christkindlmarket Des Moines — Kick off the holiday season with European-inspired shopping, Glühwein, festive lights, and old-world traditions every November.

Catch Des Moines

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Des Moines, IA 50309-2350

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