The Ultimate Weekend in Des Moines 2023
Okay, so it’s no secret that I LOVE the city of Des Moines. I’ve lived in the Des Moines metro for four years now, and it truly feels like home. I bought my first house in Urbandale (a suburb of DSM) and it brings me immense joy to live in such a wonderful area.
One of the main things I adore about Des Moines is that it’s always growing and changing. There’s always events happening, new restaurants to try, and neighborhoods to explore. The small businesses are impeccable and you can feel a strong sense of community here.
I’ve had people from out of town ask me for advice on where to go and what to do while visiting Des Moines. I get sooo excited when people ask me for recommendations, and I can’t help but give them a full itinerary of my favorite things to do. So, I had an idea for this blog post, which I’d say is more of a passion project, since I’m having so much fun as I write this.
Maybe I’ll make this an annual post, because my list is surely going to evolve as DSM grows and changes over time. Check out this similar blog post I wrote back in 2020! An oldie, but a goodie.
Without further ado, here is My Ultimate Weekend in Des Moines 2023!
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for a place to stay while you’re visiting Des Moines, I know the perfect spot. It’s the coziest, cutest little bungalow, located in quaint Beaverdale. It sleeps 4 and it’s got a small town feel in the heart of Des Moines. PLUS, my bestie owns and operates this rental property, so you’re in great hands.
Friday Night in Beaverdale
Let’s assume you’re staying in the AirBnb mentioned above. You’ll likely want to have a chill Friday night once you arrive in town. Here’s the game plan:
Dinner: Motley School Tavern
Motley School Tavern (MST) is a New American restaurant offering fresh spins on yesterday's classics. Their food, drinks, and atmosphere looks and feels high-end, while still having that warm and cozy touch. I cannot say enough great things about MST. They have a yummy brunch menu, too!
Instagram: @motleyschooltavern
Instagram: @snookiesms
Ice Cream: Snookies Malt Shop
Snookies is a popular ice cream parlor in Beaverdale serving a range of frozen desserts with creative toppings. It has a vintage vibe, outdoor seating, and a drive-thru.
Snookies is a local fave! I remember visiting Snookies when I was five years old, and it still gives me such a warm nostalgia.
Saturday - Hit the Town
Saturday is for heading out on the town. Brunch, shopping, drinks…the works. Here’s my recs:
Instagram: @hobnobdesmoines
Brunch: Hobnob Coffee & Wine Bar
Located inside historic Hotel Fort Des Moines, Hobnob has all the Instagrammable food, drinks, and decor.
P.S. Ask the barista about the speakeasy “down the rabbit hole.” 🕵🏼♀️
Shopping
KIN - A modern mystical shop that sell crystals, vintage + modern jewelry, and more. Ask about their aura readings!
Porch Light - this place has a little bit of everything, and it’s all just so good. I could peruse in Porch Light for hours.
Zhoosh - Zhoosh is an eclectic shop that has something for everyone - vintage home decor, gifts, smoking accessories, and so much more. I’m obsessed with this place.
Dinner: The Republic on Grand
The Republic is a rooftop restaurant and bar that has a stunning view of Des Moines. You’ll get that big city feel, even though Des Moines only has one skyscraper, lol.
Instagram: @therepublicongrand
Instagram: @hotelfordesmoines
Drinks: In Confidence
Surprise! We’re heading back to Hotel Fort Des Moines to check out their speakeasy, In Confidence.
This place is absolutely stunning and you need to see it for yourself. The space is filled with authentic 1920’s furniture and it really feels like Des Moines’ best kept secret. They have delicious mocktails, too!
Sunday Slow Down
By Sunday, you might be looking for a more chill day as you wind down. Highland Park is my personal favorite neighborhood in DSM because of it’s sense of community, plus all the shops are within a few blocks of each other!
Instagram: @slowdowndsm
Coffee: The Slow Down Coffee Co.
I think it’s safe to say The Slow Down is the like the community hub of Highland Park. They’ve got coffee, tea, local baked goods, gifts, and allll the comfy, cozy vibes. It’s the perfect hangout for a Sunday Morning.
Shopping
Divine Times Vintage - Vintage collective featuring a new guest vendor weekly! Warning: If you’re into vintage clothing and decor, this place is dangerous (in the best way).
Des Moines Mercantile - Modern general store with everyday goods for everyone. Many of their products are locally sourced!
Art Terrarium - houseplants, plant care, & potting bar. A local fave!
The Collective - sustainable, vegan, bulk refillery. This place smells amazing.
There you have it! I personally couldn’t imagine a better weekend in Des Moines, but I might be biased. If you happen to check out any of these places, please let me know! I’d love to hear all about it. 💕
