Discover downtown Des Moines

With a longstanding reputation as a dependable center of banking and finance, today's downtown Des Moines is ready to delight you. You'll find plenty of shopping, dining, arts and entertainment in this modern Midwestern cultural hub. A steadfast and true backdrop to the ever growing downtown is the shining bright gold dome of the Iowa State Capital just steps from the East Village.

Chinese pagoda and artistic arch near our downtown Des Moines hotel
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    Surety Courtyard is the perfect place to enjoy shareable bar bites, enjoy live music, and connect with friends over a cocktail. Join us at one of Des Moine’s most vibrant patio bars.

    Closed for the season—see you in spring 2024!

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    So, you want some breakfast? Cool, go to MCD’s. Do you want the freshest and tastiest breakfast treats around, service with a little snark, and a side piece of carefully crafted breakfast cocktails? Come and get it, mama. The Breakfast Club is your place in Downtown Des Moines to hang with buds on the weekend and a dressed-down spot for business brunches whenever. Casual conversation is back, and it comes with a tasty cocktail and a side of flapjacks.

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    The Iowa State Capitol, commonly called the Iowa Statehouse, is in Iowa‘s capital city, Des Moines. As the seat of the Iowa General Assembly, the building houses the Iowa Senate, Iowa House of Representatives, the Office of the Governor, and the Offices of the Attorney General, Auditor, Treasurer, and Secretary of State. The building also includes a chamber for the Iowa Supreme Court, although court activities usually take place in the neighboring Iowa Supreme Court building. The building was constructed between 1871 and 1886 and is the only five-domed capitol in the country.[2]

    Located at East 9th Street and Grand Avenue, the Capitol is set atop a hill and offers a panoramic view of the city’s downtown and the West Capitol Terrace. Various monuments and memorials are to its sides and front, including the Soldiers and Sailors’ Monument and the Lincoln and Tad statue.

    Hours

    Monday-Friday 8:00AM-5:00PM

    Saturday 9:00AM-4:00PM

    Sunday Closed

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    The East Village is Des Moines’ most vibrant and diverse district, boasting many of the finest shopping, dining, nightlife, and commerce in Iowa. Located between the Iowa State Capitol and the Des Moines River in downtown Des Moines, the East Village is highly accessible by car, bike, bus, or foot!

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    The “Greatest Store in the Universe” offers up union-printed, US-made, wildly clever clothing and home goods.

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    This charming boutique named for the owner’s grandmothers is in the historic East Village neighborhood and curates jewelry, accessories, hand bags, and home goods.

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    Leather goods made in shop with a deep nod to Midwestern heritage are the hallmark of Fontenelle Supply Co, and they also carry other high-quality American brands.

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    At Marv’s Music, we believe that music is a social thing that brings people together. From that old-time rock and roll to something hot off the presses—Marv’s Music has vinyl for everyone.

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    Serving up delicious Italian food, Lucca’s ambience is set by exposed brick walls and a centrally positioned kitchen.

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    Locally owned by four chefs who personally prepare each night’s dishes, Akebono is a Des Moines destination for sushi and dinner shows.

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    Pizzas infused with the flavors of the Far East and tiki drinks make Fong’s a one-of-its-kind dining experience.

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    Explore Des Moines and take your taste buds on a culinary adventure like no other as you explore the diverse and delectable dining options waiting for you in the heart of Des Moines’ East Village.

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    Dozens of sculptures fill this beautifully landscaped 4.4 acre park in downtown Des Moines.

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    Located in the city proper, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has 7 acres of outdoor gardens and a beloved Bonsai collection, and uncommon plant species including a corpse flower.

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    Iowa’s only accredited Zoo, Blank Park is home to over 800 animals from African lions to sea lions over its 49 acres.

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    Since 1948, the Des Moines Art Center has exhibited a robust collection of modern and contemporary art, always available to view for free by the public.

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    Chef Inspired. Timeless. Approachable.

    Mulberry Street Tavern is located in downtown Des Moines and brings you elevated takes on traditional fare in a vibrant restaurant and bar setting.

    Reserve your table today