Des Moines is full of hidden gems. Here are just a few...
Sections
5
Outdoor Activities
Restaurants
Other Food & Drinks
Arts & Entertainment
Local Favorites
Outdoor Activities
Located in the heart of Des Moines, you'll find Grays Lake. 2 mile walking trail, connects to bike trail, rent paddle boats, kayaks, etc. Grays Lake is a gem you won't want to miss.
Gray's Lake Park - City of Des Moines, IA
Largest farmers market in the Midwest! The Market takes place every Saturday, May through October, from 7 a.m. - Noon in the Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines. Find local produce, local artists, live music, and great food. My favorite is...
Downtown Farmers' Market in Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines isn’t lacking trails but The High Trestle Trail is a can’t miss. It is a paved recreational trail that runs through the Polk, Story, Boone, and Dallas counties. The trail's name is derived from a former 1913 bridge that spanned the Des Moi...
High Trestle Trail
Seasonal blooms showcased outdoors & in a geodesic dome, plus educational programs & art shows.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Need a place to let your dog run off some excess energy? Dogs of all shapes and sizes enjoy romping through the 10-acre fenced play area of the Raccoon River Park Dog Park. The facility is open daily, year round from 6:30 a.m. until dusk and features...
Raccoon River Dog Park
Restaurants
I've lived in Manhattan and spent a fair share of time on Long Island. This is as close as you'll get to NY style pizza. Go for the pizza and stay for the Calzones!
Taste of New York Pizza
Prime cuts of beef, seafood & a large wine selection offered in an elegant, clubby setting.
801 Chophouse
No frills. Seated fast. Served fast. And ohhh so good.
Old West Mexican Restaurant
Whether you're ordering a multi-course meal or grabbing a drink and pizza at the bar, Centro's lively, casual yet upscale atmosphere makes it perfect for dining. Please try the Espresso Martini!
Centro - Des Moines
There are many Jethro's BBQ places but the southside location is the best. Shhhh no one knows that yet.
Jethro's BBQ Southside
Classic neighborhood joint in the right neighborhood. Great food. Don't miss this one.
Francies
Veteran restaurant serving American cuisine & pasta dishes in a classy space with a full bar. Great staff. Where the locals go.
Skip's
Other Food & Drinks
A coffee house with an old-fashioned soda fountain and a diner menu. Their tagline is We're here to make people's day!
Smokey Row Coffee
Live music on Thursday nights in the summer. It’s a can’t miss with beers from a local brewery, food trucks, and Iowa wine. Bring a lawn chair!
Jasper Winery
There's also a Speakeasy in the same building. If you can find it.
Hello, Marjorie
Get there early. This place is popular with the locals.
la mie - Des Moines' Favorite Neighborhood Bakery, Cafe and ...
Such a fun place. The experience is worth the wait.
Black Cat Ice Cream
With several locations around the metro, you're sure to be near this award winning deli.
Palmers Landing Page - Des Moines, IA
Arts & Entertainment
Great for the kids and the kids at heart!
Science Center of Iowa
Top notch service and conveniently located in Merle Hay Mall where you'll find plenty of things to do to entertain the family.
Flix Brewhouse
Hot spot featuring diverse acts in a space with up-to-date lighting & sound systems plus a bar.
Wooly's
From musicals and plays to comedians and concerts. The Civic Center is a host to major talent acts.
Des Moines Civic Center
Exciting 3 day musical festival just outside of Des Moines. If you're feeling adventurous bring a tent and camp!
Hinterland Music Festival
Check out the schedule. There's something for everybody.
Wells Fargo Arena
The hotel has an indoor water park!
Adventureland Resort: Welcome to Adventureland
If you love comedy check this place out. Touring comedians, local acts, and open mic nights at a reasonable price.
Teehee's Comedy Club
Local Favorites
They offer traditional yoga, barre classes, sculpt classes, etc. Drop ins accepted.
Power Life Yoga Barre Fitness
In the East Village. A part of town you want to see anyway. Plenty to do within walking distance. Local restaurants, shopping, bars.
Salon Spa W
DIVE bar. This isn't a pretend dive bar it's a real one. And it's in the East Village where there's plenty to do within walking distance.
