You and your partner can go here to have breakfast together. This is a museum with all kinds of exhibits that together tell the story of the state. Check out the rest of The Catch List itineraries. Nature makes this place very relaxing, which is great. Spend hours browsing West End Architectural Salvages unique variety of found goods. Ranking of the top 14 things to do in Des Moines. Not all Americans can access kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or water-based activities like water observation. It features a sleek bar serving various alcoholic drinks and private spaces for every occasion. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "ab0cc8f80b41bee3e97d3b9c1c24c7e7" );document.getElementById("d83f0e7b47").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Crafty Mother Father is dedicated to expecting and new parents. During the summer, enjoy an outdoor movie, concert, or festival. Check out the Des Moines Art Center, Historical Museum, or Science Center of Iowa. Go IOWA WILD! Going to the Hoyt Sherman Place is one of the most romantic things to do in Des Moines. You may rent bikes and go for a pleasant ride. One of the most photogenic places is the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Dinner DURINGa movie at Flix Brewhouse. Grab some quarters and hit up a classic arcade! Iowa State Fairgrounds 877 Arenas & Stadiums Open now By Percolating It showcases hundreds of quilts along with other needle crafts. And there are many attractions. How about a concert? Sushi downtown atMiyabi 9orAkebono 515 8.) 21.) I enjoyed every minute of my 80 minute massage. Here are 14 fun and free things to do in Des Moines that will provide a great day out without breaking the bank. Why? Love finding a good deal with your partner? So, Im a geek, but I love browsing shelf after shelf of books. If you want to experience fine dining with your partner, you can go to Django. Try a new activity at Grays Lake or Jester Park, rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddle board. 46 Date Ideas in Des Moines: Romantic Things To Do in Des Moines 1. Have Breakfast Together at Mullets Restaurant, 35. Italian dinnerin a Victorian mansionatAposto Mike was very personable and accomodating!! Pretend you are on a tropical island and enjoy tiki drinks at Bellhop or enjoy the island spirit with mocktails and other tasty delights at Kava DSM. Couples will love the date ideas in Des Moines. A late-night walk around Grays Lake or the High Trestle Bridge (in Madrid, Iowa) is great for exercise Get a couples massage. 24.) I enjoyed every minute of my 80 minute massage. Also, there are events and shows that are very interesting! With a rotating menu depending on what'sinseason, you can't go wrong with any of their options, from grass-fed burgersto salmon on a sweet bun. This is lovely to see, and it makes the gardens perfect for a romantic stroll together! 10.) Relive your childhood and take your partner roller skating. This is a wonderful spa where you can do a large variety of treatments with your partner. Plan a day or night perusing Valley Junction or the East Village, each boasting over 100 businesses to shop, dine, and be entertained. Also, there are Broadway shows, comedy shows, ballet shows, and many other types of shows. Im Dymphe, a travel blogger and content creator with a passion for exploring beautiful destinations and travel photography. Exploreshops likeSticksandWanderlustfor her andFontenelle Supply Co.andMarv's Record Shopfor him. Shop With Your Partner at Merle Hay Mall, 37. 7.) Trivia night. Rotary Riverwalk Park 7. Going to Lifestyle Juices is ideal for a date because juices can be delightful. Pick up some sandwiches at Gateway Market and have a picnic at Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Ice skating/roller skating. Address: 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312, United States. Also, what's great is that you can have food and drinks at this place as well! Like more of a snacky-dinner? The park also has a few great trails where you can take a leisurely stroll or ride a bike. The Wells Fargo Arena is a large stadium where a lot of different events take place. Make it a theme over a period of time and visit the 99 counties. Visit a museum. Up to 54% Off Photography Lessons at Maxheim Photography, Des Moines Performing Arts - Civic Center. The displays and other items at this location are highly distinctive, making it the ideal setting for a date! If you want to learn something, visiting this museum is one of the most interesting date ideas in Des Moines. This makes attending a show at this theater a very special experience. Whats even better is that you can enjoy glow-in-the-dark bowling here! Des Moines Downtown Farmers Market is one of the many fun things to do in Des Moines. Like more of a snacky-dinner? For instance, this location hosts concerts. This could be a special dish youve always wanted to try, or maybe cook through a cookbook together. Something very exciting is ahead! What You'll Learn Pappajohn Sculpture Park Source: Tripadvisor Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, Iowa, the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park is the perfect place to explore art in the outdoors. WebRomantic Des Moines Date Ideas Take a walk. You and your partner can have delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes at this place. With so many options, it can be hard to decide what to do, but hopefully this list will help get you started. A post shared by Black Cat Ice Cream (@blackcaticecream). Do you love tea? Moreover, you can find paintings, sculptures, and many other types of art here. They have $5 glasses of house wine (my go-to option) and cocktails that my boyfriend approved of. So going here is definitely a very fun activity. You and your partner can visit the Salisbury House & Gardens. Once a year, you and your partner can attend the Des Moines Arts Festival. Shopping with your partner can be one of the most fun date ideas in Des Moines. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Nicole grew up in Quincy, IL before studying Visual Communications at Iowa State University. It features lovely architecture and the garden is beautiful as well. Valentines Day Des Moines 2022: Restaurant Special Menus HoQ Come for a romantic, candle-lit dinner featuring the freshest Iowa ingredients. During the summer, enjoy Shakespeare on the Lawn at the Salisbury House. Plan a staycation or just a night to go swimming! Our go-to game isCards Against Humanity(not for the easily offended). Java Joes or Smokey Row are great options for coffee and chats. Need I say more? Were coming back. You can find about 800 animals at the zoo. You can learn more about this cosmos at the zoo. With rich woods, elegant brick, and some of the largest rooms in the city featuring whirlpools and fireplaces, all the elements for romance are there, now it's up to you to seal the deal. Make sure to let them know if youre celebrating something special so you can raise a toast to the evening with complimentary champagne. The Des Moines Art Center has a great lunch spot if you choose to do a day date. Then, going to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is one of the most romantic things to do in Des Moines. A post shared by Hoyt Sherman Place (@hoytshermanplace). For instance, you can watch demonstrations of traditional crafts like candle and pottery creation. Go on a Pizza Date Together at Dough Co. Pizza, 23. Also, there are beautiful parks and gardens. Go shopping. You can go to one of the locations of The Operating Room in Des Moines. Go to the Des Moines Downtown Farmers Market, 44. For example, you can attend football and hockey games here. A post shared by The Coffeesmith (@yourcoffeesmith). Then there are many amazing things to do in the city! One of the tallest trail bridges in the worldandadorned with 43 steelcribbingsthat arch over the bridge and glow blue at night,it's a breathtaking bucket list spot. For live music or theater, check outDes Moines Performing Arts(Des Moines Civic Center), theDes Moines Playhouse, orHoyt Sherman Placeto see what is currently running and coming up. The American Dream, or the struggle to attain that dream, is a major theme in at least four titles above. What's great is that this restaurant combines traditional and contemporary food. Jump Together at the Sky Zone Trampoline Park Des Moines, 14. 6.) . Of course, no bike ride on the HTT is complete without the requisite selfie on the spectacular High Trestle Bridge. This is a large indoor climbing gym where you can find many climbing walls. Let us know what its like! Those who want to relax can visit the East Village Spa. Or go for a backyard party feel and exciting cocktails at The Bartenders Handshake. Jennifer checked with me to make sure the pressure was to my liking. Its the largest Iowa city and the hub of culture, performing arts, and food in the state. Your email address will not be published. For example, you can find art by Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol at this place. This is a place where you can have bubble tea with your partner that is delicious. Browse the bookstore. They serve a full dinner menu, hand-crafted cocktails, wine, a pub menu that features small plates and appetizers, and they have brunch on Saturday mornings (if brunch dates are more your thing). If you arent afraid of changing your dating life at least a little, read the post to the end. We came here with friends and it was both interesting and fun. There is live entertainment, food, and music. Contents hide 1. Also, you could take photos of some of the buildings in the city. Have you been for dinner? Des Moines is a fantastic location in Iowa. Also, you find foam pits, an obstacle course, and other fun attractions here. No matter what the pizza, Dough Co. is always a good idea! Des Moines Downtown Farmers Market. Bowl Together at the Air Lanes Bowling Center, 32. It features a Beaux Arts style design, that is very beautiful! There are many exciting things to do at this location, like roller coasters. Going to the Temple Theater is a very romantic experience for couples. One of the best movie theaters to go to with your partner is Fleur Cinema and Cafe. Bowling is yet another of the top-date ideas in Des Moines. You may purchase a variety of fruit juices and smoothies at this juice bar. This place is perfect if you're looking for date ideas in Des Moines. This is a performing arts venue with a wide variety of shows. Want to go on a romantic date? Attractions include full contact jousting, pirate cove, gypsy camp, royal court, and more. Join The Foundry for a romantic evening at the distillery either Friday or Saturday night for a four-course meal, provided by Trellis Catering, and cocktails to go with each course. Ashlen wears many hats: mom, wife, daycare provider at her in-home daycare, blogger and co-owner at The Kidsperts, childrens book author, and co-director and producer for the upcoming play Expressing Motherhood play. Proceed to the sculpture park after the tour. This is an indoor trampoline park where you can find a lot of trampolines next to each other. See a Movie With Your Partner at Fleur Cinema & Cafe, 19. One of our favorite date ideas, Des Moines has several sports teams you can support. 5.) Game night. This is a miniature golf course where you and your partner can have a lot of fun playing the game. Nestled in the heart of downtown, Des Luxis the perfect place tocall home when exploring the city. See more than 1000 varieties of plants at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Center in Iowa. Kids going to grandparents for the weekend? Playing games together can be a lot of fun. Read through our full list of fun things to do here and get planning today. Try Noahs Ark, Latin King, or Tumea & Sons for a classic romantic meal. Discover and discuss your spirit animal there. The golf course has 18 holes. 25.) You can have delicious coffee at this place with beautiful latte art. Experience Fine Dining Together at Django, 31. WebGreater Des Moines Botanical Garden; John & Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park; Des Moines Art Route; Adventureland Park; Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack & Hotel; Blank Park Zoo; Living History Farms; Outdoor Trails . The elegant home was built in 1877 and has individual rooms to host small events or large banquets. Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens 9. You can also stroll through the Des Moines Art Center, which offers a wide range of classes. Looking to just grab a drink (or a few!)? Guided tours are also available, where you can gain new knowledge. If you and your partner are all dressed up and dont know where to go for a special night out, you already know we have the answer. Besides that, you can do a tour of the building, during which you can see the beautiful interior of the building. An escape room is a room that you have to escape from by solving puzzles. For hikes, we are fans of Ledges State Park. Its an exceptional experience, this one. Located in the historic Sherman Hill district, the Hoyt Sherman Place is one of the most highly acclaimed venues for events in Des Moines. ), so you'd be well served to begin your day exploring theDes Moines Art Center. The Des Moines' Downtown Farmers' Market is a great place to visit with your partner. Speaking of delicious, the food was *chefs kiss* so good. This is an art museum where you can find a large collection of a variety of modern and contemporary art. The Des Moines Girl 5K // May 6 // Jasper Winery // Don't Miss It. We have gathered 25 of our favorite (and memorable) Des Moines date night ideas. You can find many beautiful and photogenic places in Des Moines. Find a sitter or make it a family date at brunch. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. You can have all kinds of classic French dishes here. Dont forget their extensive wine selection and signature cocktails. Sometimes, just sometimes, we find ourselves in a date night rut. During the summer Blank Parks Zoo Brew is a unique way to enjoy a beer. 22.) If both you and your partner love coffee, going to Horizon Line Coffee is lovely. But wait, what are the plans? Not only is it a gorgeous space, but it celebrates local art andartisansat every touchpoint, from dcor to events. Moreover, what's great is that you can get both very unique dishes as well as more traditional dishes here. But first, you'll need some sustenance to replenish your energy, and nothing says 'date night refuel' quite likeTrostels Greenbriar. Also, there are restaurants where you can have dinner after shopping. Besides that, this place is great for having drinks together as well. Having breakfast here is one of the best date ideas in Des Moines in the morning. Came with a group and everyone had a great time. In addition, this location is perfect for getting drinks. It has a charming bridge and an imaginative swing set area. Going here is a lot of fun and perfect if you're looking for romantic things to do in Des Moines. So I'm sure you and your partner can have a dish that you both like. Bonus, grab a cocktail or coffee at their cafe to enjoy while you wander. It is our typical Thursday night. This is a historic theater that dates back to the year 1877. Date night in. Cookies are used for measurement, ads and optimization. The eatery also offers scrumptious hamburgers. It is great to go here for a stroll while looking for products together. 4.) 16.) WebRefine Your Search Pappajohn Sculpture Park. A late-night walk aroundGrays Lakeor theHigh Trestle Bridge(in Madrid, Iowa) is great for exercise and can be an incredibly romantic date night. Another one of the best date ideas in Des Moines is going to the Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens. Additionally, the restaurants ambiance is ideal for a romantic occasion! Corner Cafe For Breakfast With Your Partner, 10. The Iowa State Fair is a fun event that takes place in the city once every year. Louies Wine Dive, Confluence, Peace Tree Brewing Co., and Exile are all excellent local choices. Dont see your favorite romantic date night spot included ? This is a small zoo that is the only zoo in the state of Iowa. These are perfect if you're looking for romantic things to do in Des Moines. One of the best white tablecloth restaurants in DesMoines. Doug S. You can visit Django if you wish to enjoy great food. The domed conservatory includes a tropical garden, desert garden and sculptures under one roof. The Better Homes & Gardens Test Garden 1. Salisbury House 8. You can also stroll through the gardens! This is one of the most relaxing date ideas in Des Moines for sure. Alternately, spend the evening at Smash Park in West Des Moines playing yard games. Whether you are planning ahead or need a last-second idea, we are here to help! At each of these spots, you and your partner can take romantic couple photos together. Many bars and restaurants host trivia. Featured onHGTV's"West End Salvage,"wheretherearefour floors ofuniqueart and furniturecustom created andcurated from New York, Chicago, England,and the Middle East. Also, what's great is that it has a very casual atmosphere, which can be great for a date! Another one of the best date ideas in Des Moines is bowling with your partner. Get crafty and do a class at AR Workshop, The Knotty Nail, or Glazed Expressions, and bonus, have some new decor to show for it. Show You have to try the pancakes when you go here. For example, you can see demonstrations of old crafts, such as candle and pottery making. This makes it the perfect setting for a romantic date. See more than 1000 varieties of plants at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Adventureland. We went to see the Broadway show of Anastasia and it was beautifully done. If you really want to spice up date night and make it feel like a mini-vacation, you can even book a relaxing night at the hotel (and you know what that meansno one has to be the DD!). These performances range from Broadway musicals to burlesque. Another wonderful place to visit if you both love coffee is Friedrichs Coffee. Because of this, this activity is a great way to bond. Additionally, the restaurant has the ideal ambiance for a date and is a pleasant location! This is an ice cream shop where you can have small batch artisanal ice cream together. There are numerous traditional French cuisines available here. Grab a sheet ton of nachos for a late-night munchie; game night has never been this exciting or tastedthis good. They're only a mile apart, so if you're feelingincredibly spontaneous (and famished), you could even"Beard hop"to both. You wont get bored at Blank Park Zoo because there are more than a hundred species. Capitol Building. Ive been traveling for years and I decided to start this blog to help you do the same in Europe, the United States, and beyond. Have High-Quality Coffee Together at Horizon Line Coffee, 20. Located about 40 miles north of the hustle and bustle of downtown is Hotel Pattee, one of the most historic hotels in the state. One of the most interesting date ideas in Des Moines is going to the State Historical Museum of Iowa. Adventureland is a theme park located in Des Moines, Iowa. Getting lunch at Centro Des Moines is one of the most amazing activities for couples. 9.4/10 Exceptional! 2. And there are some very unique flavors that you can choose from. Impressive pieces by 20th-century artists are everywhere in the center. World Food Prize Hall of Laureates 10. *wink* The seafood at Splash is flown in daily from places like Boston, Seattle, Key Largo, and Honolulu to bring you super fresh seafood, even in the Midwest. Alba 187 reviews Open Now American $$ - $$$ Menu Alba never lets us down! Chefs table is an amazing opportunity. 13. After that, you'll want toexploreMainframe Studios, whichis the largest non-profit art studio building in the nation and home toover 75artistsand galleriesand where you'll find everything fromjewelryand clothes topaintingsand photography. We enjoyed walking around this beautiful lake with views of the downtown of Des Moines. And what's great is that there are routes for every level. Whats lovely about this location is that you can also dine and drink there! Therefore, this is fantastic if youre seeking romantic activities in Des Moines. It's the perfect getaway in and of itself,and the drive to and fromPerryis a scenic one. Lovely Hannah C. Several pleasant dates can be had in Des Moines Asian Gardens. One of a few wonderful free things to do in the city, Des Moines Art Center is a must-see. Here, you can find escape rooms that are a lot of fun. It has exquisite architecture, and the garden is lovely. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. For this, the place uses fresh fruit, which is great! Additionally, pinball machines here are enjoyable to play with others. Taking place every Saturdaymorning from May October, it's the perfect placeforholding hands andstrolling along25,000 of your closest friends. 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