Des Moines Nightlife Guide: Complete Guide
Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. Discover the best nightlife experiences in Des Moines.
Welcome to the ultimate nightlife guide for Des Moines! Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best nightlife experiences that Des Moines has to offer, from popular hotspots to hidden local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find insider tips, detailed recommendations, and everything you need to make the most of your nightlife adventure in Des Moines. Our carefully curated selection ensures you won't miss any of the must-see spots while also discovering unique experiences that most tourists overlook.
Key Takeaways
- Des Moines offers over 74 exceptional nightlife experiences
- Best time to visit varies by activity - check individual listings for optimal timing
- Many experiences require advance booking, especially during peak season
- Local guides and experts provide invaluable insights and access
- Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, with options for every preference
Top Bars & Cocktail Lounges
Craft cocktail bars, rooftop lounges, and unique drinking establishments with great atmospheres.
Revival House
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.7 stars from 172 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 316 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Hello, Marjorie
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.7 stars from 752 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 717 Locust St UNIT 103, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Contrary
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.9 stars from 66 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 503 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
The High Life Lounge
Highly rated Restaurant in Des Moines with 4.6 stars from 1798 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
300 Craft & Rooftop
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.2 stars from 384 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 300 W Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy Ste. 190, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Good News, Darling
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.9 stars from 69 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 717 Locust St UNIT 103, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Winchester Public House
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.7 stars from 393 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 224 5th St, West Des Moines, IA 50265, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Secret Admirer
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.8 stars from 156 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 110 SW 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Royal Mile
Highly rated Restaurant in Des Moines with 4.6 stars from 1871 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 210 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Highland Underground
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.8 stars from 65 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 3614 6th Ave Suite 100, Des Moines, IA 50313, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
El Bait Shop
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.6 stars from 2988 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
the LiFT
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.5 stars from 333 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 222 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Nightclubs & Dance Venues
Popular nightclubs, dance clubs, and venues featuring top DJs and live performances.
The Garden Nightclub
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.5 stars from 568 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 525 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Miss Kitty’s Country Bar Dance Nightclub
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.3 stars from 432 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 8834 Swanson Boulevard West Des Moines, Area, Clive, IA 50325, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
PLATFORM
Highly rated International in Des Moines with 4 stars from 69 reviews.
📍 400 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Greenwood Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.6 stars from 154 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 3707 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Noce
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.8 stars from 612 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1326 Walnut St #100, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Outer Limits
Highly rated International in Des Moines with 4.1 stars from 78 reviews.
📍 6560 NE 14th St, Des Moines, IA 50313, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Donna's Garage
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.3 stars from 274 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 4424 SE 14th St, Des Moines, IA 50320, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Hello, Marjorie
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.7 stars from 752 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 717 Locust St UNIT 103, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
300 Craft & Rooftop
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.2 stars from 384 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 300 W Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy Ste. 190, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
the LiFT
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.5 stars from 333 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 222 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Live Music Venues
Concert halls, jazz clubs, and venues showcasing local and international musical talent.
Wooly's
Highly rated International in Des Moines with 4.5 stars from 1774 reviews.
📍 504 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Lefty's Live Music
Highly rated International in Des Moines with 4.6 stars from 99 reviews.
📍 2307 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Noce
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.8 stars from 612 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1326 Walnut St #100, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
xBk Live
Highly rated International in Des Moines with 4.8 stars from 162 reviews.
📍 1159 24th St, Des Moines, IA 50311, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Hoyt Sherman Place
Highly rated International in Des Moines with 4.8 stars from 1906 reviews.
📍 1501 Woodland Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Val Air Ballroom
Highly rated International in Des Moines with 4.2 stars from 1068 reviews.
📍 301 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines, IA 50265, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
The Garden Nightclub
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.5 stars from 568 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 525 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
300 Craft & Rooftop
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.2 stars from 384 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 300 W Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy Ste. 190, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Late-Night Dining
Restaurants and eateries open late for post-party meals and midnight cravings.
Proudfoot & Bird
Highly rated American in Des Moines with 4.6 stars from 366 reviews.
📍 1000 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
The Royal Mile
Highly rated Restaurant in Des Moines with 4.6 stars from 1871 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 210 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Revelry Room Bar & Kitchen
Highly rated Restaurant in Des Moines with 4.9 stars from 11 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
The High Life Lounge
Highly rated Restaurant in Des Moines with 4.6 stars from 1798 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
The Station On Ingersoll
Highly rated American in Des Moines with 4.7 stars from 1093 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 3124 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
Liberty's
Highly rated American in Des Moines with 4.2 stars from 16 reviews.
📍 101 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Maggie's Rumble Room
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4.7 stars from 345 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1430 2nd Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Tipsy Crow Tavern
Highly rated Bar in Des Moines with 4 stars from 576 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 102 3rd St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Entertainment & Shows
Comedy clubs, theaters, and entertainment venues offering nighttime performances.
Funny Bone Comedy Club
Laugh the night away at this popular Des Moines comedy venue, showcasing both local and touring comedians.
- •Arrive early for best seating
- •Two-drink minimum often required
- •Be prepared to interact with performers
- •Check age restrictions (often 18+ or 21+)
- •Avoid sitting in front row if you don't want attention
Temple Theater
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Des Moines venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Des Moines Civic Center
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Des Moines venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Stoner Theater
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Des Moines venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Des Moines Performing Arts
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Des Moines venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- •Book tickets online in advance
- •Check show duration and intermissions
- •Arrive early to find parking
- •Review venue policies before attending
- •Check for package deals
Hoyt Sherman Place
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Des Moines venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Nightlife Districts
Popular neighborhoods and areas known for vibrant nightlife and bar-hopping.
The Garden Nightclub
Explore Des Moines's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
300 Craft & Rooftop
Explore Des Moines's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
the LiFT
Explore Des Moines's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Revival House
Explore Des Moines's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Up-Down DSM
Explore Des Moines's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Smash Park Des Moines
Explore Des Moines's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Essential Tips
- 🌃Check dress codes before heading out
- 🌃Arrive early to avoid long lines at popular venues
- 🌃Use ride-sharing apps for safe transportation
- 🌃Keep valuables secure and stay aware of surroundings
- 🌃Pace yourself and stay hydrated
- 🌃Research cover charges and drink prices
- 🌃Make reservations for popular venues
- 🌃Bring valid ID - many places are strict about checking
- 🌃Start early - some venues close earlier than expected
- 🌃Ask locals for current hotspots and hidden gems
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
The best time for nightlife experiences in Des Moines varies by activity and season. Generally, spring and fall offer ideal conditions with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with the most options but also the highest prices and largest crowds. Winter can offer unique experiences and better deals, though some activities may be limited.
Average Price
Prices for nightlife experiences in Des Moines range widely depending on the activity and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium and exclusive options can range from $200-500+. Many activities offer group discounts and package deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Des Moines offers many excellent nightlife experiences, each with its own unique character. The best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule, but our guide highlights the top-rated options that consistently deliver exceptional experiences.
Timing varies by activity, but generally spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Summer is peak season with the most options but larger crowds. Check individual listings for specific timing recommendations and seasonal considerations.
For popular experiences, especially during peak season, advance booking is highly recommended. Some activities have limited capacity and sell out quickly. Booking ahead also often provides better rates and ensures availability.
Requirements vary by activity, but generally bring comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear, sun protection, water, and any specific gear mentioned in activity descriptions. Check individual listings for detailed requirements.
Many nightlife experiences in Des Moines cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Check individual listings for difficulty levels and requirements. Many operators offer instruction and guidance for newcomers.
Costs vary widely depending on the type of experience and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium options can range from $200-500+. Group discounts and packages are often available.
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