One of the most beautiful capitols in the nation. Free tours include a 275 ft trip up in the dome and a breathtaking Law Library. Make sure to talk a walk around the gardens and monuments on the hill.
Check out the Iowa Craft Beer Tent at the Iowa State Fair where you can try all kinds of beer crafted in Iowa. Read more.
Who cares if it's -10 degrees outside. Downtown Des Moines buildings are connected by a series of tubes that allow you to walk from parking garage to work without ever having to face the elements.
During the Drake Relays watch pole vaulting inside the Jordan Creek Mall.
Enjoy a bratwurst and a beer during a game at Principal Park while you watch a team of future sluggers. No one said a Minor League game had to be minor in fun.
A celebrated tradition by Drake students, alumni and the Iowa community, the Drake Relays is an annual track and field event. It's become one of the largest/most important meets in the U.S.
The place to catch familiar & arriving bands. Offers an intimate feel - it's not uncommon for bands to walk through the crowd or hang out with fans after shows. Tickets generally about $20. All ages.
Hear the hooves pounding and feel your heart race while watching thoroughbred and quarter horses cross the finish line. Enjoy the indoor/outdoor atmosphere while enjoying some delicious food.
The Farmers' Market is an open-air street market in located in downtown's Historic Court District. The Market spans nine city blocks and boasts food, beverage and much more from over 200 vendors.
Take a trip back in time and try on some funky vintage outfits at Atomic Garage, then head over to Nan’s Nummies, an old-fashioned soda fountain and candy shop.
There is always something to do here at the Art Center. You can view the art, take art classes, have lunch, or plan a wedding in the main lobby or out in Greenwood Park.
Run, skate, yoga, they are countless things to do. Rent a paddle boat and take part in the moon float during the full moon, and take sailing lessons on a 16ft boat
I am often here for work and never have a bad experience. Enjoy their staff, the performances, and connecting with other people in the arts here.
Make sure you never forget your stint in Iowa with a 'Des Moines, hell yes!' t-shirt, or another Iowa themed shirt at this quirky East Village shop.
This is where Meredith publications like Better Homes and Gardens shoot their flowery photography. The space is open to the public every Friday, May through September, from noon to 2 p.m.
Local to the Des Moines area and unlike any other grocery store in Des Moines. They carry locally grown, fresh produce, a wide variety of fine cheeses and wines and groceries from around the world.
Instead of taking a long trip to a winery in the middle of nowhere, visit Jasper Winery in the heart of Des Moines. They offer premium quality wines and are open 7 days a week.
In 2009, Woody's was voted "Best of the Best Barbeque Restaurants in America." It is also home to the best (free) cornbread in Iowa. Just add a little honey and it tastes even better!
Stop by for the best BBQ in town. Jethro's was featured on the Travel Channel's "Man vs. Food" in Oct. of 2010. Host, Adam Richman, took the famous "Adam Emmenecker Challenge".
Famous for bringing piano players from all over the country, this exciting and energetic show will have you laughing and dancing all the way through. Be sure to try the fishbowl and chicken ranch wrap
Adored by locals and famous visitors, Centro has been #1 on MetroMix's list of best restaurants in Des Moines. Start any delicious Italian dish with their deliciously unique Fried Ravioli.
Enjoy an extensive list of premium teas and break away from coffee in an eclectic and relaxing environment.
In addition to coffee, Java Joes also has a breakfast, lunch, dinner, ice cream, smoothies, beer, wine, tea, hot chocolate, and more. They offer vegetarian options and host local entertainment.
Probably 1 of the best bars in Des Moines. If you're looking to chill this is the place to be. Good people and great people. I would recommend this bar to any1. By the way, make sure you try the boot.
Stop into La Mie for a taste of France. Here you can get artisian breads and pastries made daily on-site. Pair the almond croissant with a cup of coffee.
With 105 beers on tap and 155 in cans and bottles, el Bait Shop is the undisputed king of beer bars. See their top 10 selling beers: http://dmreg.com/yGt6jC Read more.
They have ice cream cones just for dogs. Need I say more? OK, this is the place to be seen on a warm summer night in the Beaverdale neighborhood. And the ice cream ain't bad either.
Enjoy a movie and cafe item in a unique cinema atmosphere. Offers an experience that you can't find at any mainstream theater.
Zombies feast on more than just brains. Limp on over to this unconventional eatery, where you can sample a long list of gourmet burgers and visit the drink lab. Just watch your head.
Bringing together local Iowa beer and brilliant pizza, Gusto Pizza Co. is the place to go.
The LHF Off Road Race in November lets you "wade through creeks, dodge farm animals and claw your way to the top of gullies with 7500 (limit) other runners of questionable senses."
