Best Bars & Nightlife in Des Moines, Iowa, United States
1. El Bait Shop
Vibrant bar offering a unique blend of live music, art, and food. Solves the challenge of entertainment and dining under one roof.
- Live Music Venue: Live music every night
- Art Gallery: Rotating art exhibits showcasing local artists
- Culinary Delights: Creative American cuisine with a twist
2. Django's Jazz Bar
Intimate jazz bar featuring local and national talent. Solves the challenge of experiencing high-quality live jazz music in a cozy setting.
- Live Jazz Music: Daily live performances
- Craft Cocktails: Creative, expertly crafted cocktails
- Intimate Atmosphere: Small, inviting space perfect for dates or listening to music
3. The Red Fox Tavern
Historic tavern offering a wide selection of beers and pub fare. Solves the challenge of enjoying a classic tavern experience in a charming, historic setting.
- Historic Ambiance: Built in the 1800s, offers a glimpse into Des Moines' past
- Extensive Beer Selection: Over 20 rotating taps featuring local and international beers
- Classic Pub Fare: Traditional British and American pub food options
4. Zombie's Brew & BBQ
Craft beer tavern with a focus on delicious BBQ. Solves the challenge of finding great BBQ and craft beers in one place.
- BBQ Specialties: Slow-smoked meats cooked to perfection
- Craft Beer Selection: Rotating taps showcasing local and regional breweries
- Lively Atmosphere: Fun, lively environment with regular events and live music
5. The Continental
Upscale cocktail bar offering a sophisticated experience. Solves the challenge of finding a refined nightlife option in Des Moines.
- Exquisite Cocktails: Creative, high-end cocktail menu
- Elegant Decor: Glamorous, art deco interior design
- Live Music and DJs: Regular live music performances and DJ sets
6. Vintage Wine Bar
Wine bar with a focus on small-production wines. Solves the challenge of finding a wide variety of unique wines in a cozy, romantic setting.
- Small-Production Wines: Wide selection of lesser-known wines
- Cozy Atmosphere: Intimate, candlelit space perfect for dates
- Charcuterie and Cheese Plates: Delicious charcuterie and cheese pairings
7. High Life Lounge
Classy speakeasy-style bar with a focus on craft cocktails. Solves the challenge of finding a hidden gem that offers an exclusive, unique drinking experience.
- Craft Cocktails: Creative, expertly crafted cocktails
- Speakeasy Atmosphere: Prohibition-era decor and ambiance
- Limited Capacity: Small, intimate space with limited seating, fostering a sense of exclusivity
8. The Distillery Building
Spacious event venue offering multiple bars and live music. Solves the challenge of finding a large, versatile space for groups or events.
- Multiple Bars: Several bars to accommodate larger crowds
- Live Music and DJs: Regular live music performances and DJ sets
- Private Event Spaces: Multiple spaces available for private events and parties
9. Leaning Tree Lounge
Tiki-themed bar with a tropical vibe. Solves the challenge of finding a fun, escapist atmosphere in Des Moines.
- Tropical Vibes: Tropical decor and ambiance
- Exotic Cocktails: Creative, tropical-inspired cocktails
- Outdoor Patio: Spacious, pet-friendly outdoor patio
10. Jasper Winery
Winery with a focus on Iowa-grown wines. Solves the challenge of finding local wines and wine tastings.
- Iowa Wines: Wide selection of wines made from locally grown grapes
- Wine Tastings: Daily wine tastings showcasing their offerings
- Scenic Views: Beautiful, scenic views of the Iowa countryside
11. The Royal Mile
Scotch bar with a focus on whisky from Scotland. Solves the challenge of finding a dedicated whisky bar in Des Moines.
- Extensive Scotch Selection: Over 200 bottles of scotch to choose from
- Kilts and Bagpipes: Authentic Scottish atmosphere with live bagpipe performances
- Whisky Flights: Flight options to sample various whiskies
12. Woody's Wine and Deli
Deli and wine bar with a focus on Italian delicatessen. Solves the challenge of finding high-quality Italian food and wines in one place.
- Italian Deli: Authentic Italian sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes
- Wine Selection: Wide selection of Italian wines
- Cozy Atmosphere: Inviting, family-friendly atmosphere
13. Kum & Go Tiny House Hotel
Unique hotel offering tiny house rentals. Solves the challenge of finding affordable, quirky accommodations in Des Moines.
- Tiny Houses: Compact, minimalistic living spaces
- Affordable Rates: Competitive pricing for a comfortable stay
- Convenience Store Integration: On-site Kum & Go convenience store for essentials
14. Jasper Winery Event Space
Event space at a winery offering wine tastings and vineyard tours. Solves the challenge of finding a unique venue for events or group outings.
- Wine Tastings: Daily wine tastings showcasing their offerings
- Vineyard Tours: Guided tours of the vineyard and winemaking process
- Scenic Views: Beautiful, scenic views of the Iowa countryside
15. The Court Avenue Brewhouse
Brewpub offering a variety of beers and pub fare. Solves the challenge of finding good beer and food in a lively, social setting.
- Craft Beers: Rotating taps featuring their own brews and regional favorites
- Pub Fare: Traditional pub food options like burgers, sandwiches, and wings
- Lively Atmosphere: Spacious, energetic environment with regular events and live music