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Best Spots to Grab a Drink in Downtown Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines has become a favorite spot for food and drinks — and the bar scene is growing with it. Whether you’re a local, student, or visitor, finding the right place to grab a drink can set the tone for a perfect night out. From stylish rooftops to local breweries and chill cocktail lounges, downtown DSM delivers on variety, vibe, and creativity. In this post, I’ll break down my favorite five places to grab a drink, relax with friends, or kick off the weekend. Whether you’re a craft beer fan or cocktail lover, you’ll find a place that fits your style.

Hello, Marjorie

Hello, Marjorie combines aesthetic vibes with next-level cocktails. Known for its vintage furniture and neon-lit signs, it’s one of Des Moines’ most Instagram-worthy bars. Try The Nancy, their signature drink, and grab a spot in one of the cozy velvet booths. It’s a favorite pre-dinner stop and has the perfect ambiance for a conversation or photo op.

The Republic on Grand

Looking for a skyline view with your drink? The Republic on Grand is located on the 6th floor of the AC Hotel and features one of the best rooftop patios in town. Their seasonal cocktail menu and small plates make this a top pick for golden hour or a stylish night out. The views of the Capitol building and East Village make it feel elevated in every sense of the word.

Court Avenue Brewing Company

A downtown staple, Court Avenue Brewing Company (also known as CABCo) is perfect if you’re into craft beer and a laid-back crowd. They brew their own beers in-house and pair them with pub classics like burgers and wings. It’s a favorite for post-work hangs or game-day meetups.

Bellhop

A tropical escape in the middle of Iowa, Bellhop is a bright, funky cocktail bar filled with tiki decor, pink lights, and palm trees. If you’re looking for a more playful, creative drink menu, this is your spot. Order a punch bowl for the group or try their frozen drinks for something new and fun.

The Walnut

If you want a place that feels like a hidden gem, The Walnut is your move. It has a chill, speakeasy-style vibe that’s perfect for a quiet cocktail or deep convo with a friend. Their old fashioneds are smooth, and their seasonal drink specials always impress. Bonus points for the friendly bartenders and cozy seating.

Downtown Des Moines has something for everyone, whether you’re into bold cocktails, chill brews, or just want a great place to unwind. These spots have become my personal go-to’s — and I’d recommend them to anyone looking to experience Des Moines nightlife at its best.

Links in this post:

• Hello, Marjorie
• The Republic on Grand
• Court Avenue Brewing Company

Where to Watch Sports in Des Moines

Wellmans Pub^

Looking for the perfect spot to catch the big game in Des Moines? Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just in it for the atmosphere, Des Moines offers a variety of venues that cater to every preference. From traditional sports bars to unique establishments, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy the action. For a comprehensive list of top spots, check out this guide to the best sports bars in Greater Des Moines.(Catch Des Moines)

Top Sports Bars in Des Moines:

1. Smash Park
Located in West Des Moines, Smash Park is more than just a sports bar. With over 80 TVs, including a massive 30-foot screen, it’s a haven for sports enthusiasts. Enjoy games like pickleball and cornhole while savoring their extensive menu and drink specials.

2. The Station on Ingersoll
This local favorite offers a cozy atmosphere with a wide selection of beers and delicious food. Known for its crab rangoon nachos and tenderloins, The Station is a go-to spot for watching games with friends.

3. Johnny’s Hall of Fame
A staple in Des Moines, Johnny’s Hall of Fame boasts a rich history and a vibrant sports-centric environment. With numerous TVs and a menu full of American classics, it’s an ideal place to catch any game.

4. Wellman’s Pub & Rooftop
Offering two locations, Wellman’s combines a lively sports bar atmosphere with a rooftop experience. Enjoy the game with a view, accompanied by their diverse menu and drink options.

5. El Bait Shop
With one of the largest selections of American craft beers, El Bait Shop is a unique venue for sports viewing. Its laid-back vibe and extensive beer list make it a favorite among locals.

Des Moines is home to a bunch of venues perfect for watching sports, having a drink, and of course watching a Minnesota team lose in the playoffs. Whether you’re seeking a high-energy environment or a relaxed setting, downtown  offers options to ensure every sports fan finds their ideal spot.

NCAA Tournament

As of Monday night, it is official. The Florida Gators are back on top. Many blogs, papers, and tweets about the game and tournament as a whole. I must say every year there is talk about the best teams and how the tournament was seeded. It is a polarizing event for many who are fans of a mid-major program to the fans of a Blue Blood program. Thankfully this is a blog and many terms could be used to describe the game tonight and every other game, for me, I’ll keep it simple.

The bracket is set up between 72 teams 64 of whom play official tournament games while four teams, known as the last four, play to see who gets the last available seeds. No matter how I explain it I cannot be referred to as a professional, my bracket was not perfect. Not that anyone has ever had one but this year was special the best teams were the best. Few upsets happened and even the largest upset according to seeding in my opinion wasn’t worth the label. #10 Arkansas beat #2 St. Johns in a battle between legendary coaches at two famous schools looking for a revival.

The final four. Let’s jump ahead cause well I’m in charge of this blog. So the final four were all #1 seeds and sure the committee that decides tournament seeding was of course happy, however the fans, the fans wanted more. Thankfully the games were electric. The #1 overall team was Auburn and they were cut down by the soon-to-be-crowned champions Florida. Then went Duke the favorite to win the Tournament who were beat in last minute efforts by the tournament runner up’s Houston Cougars. Houston and Florida were ready and excited for the game which was clear when the teams started the final with multiple logo three attempts, showing the had some yip’s. What happened next when they settled down? Houston jumped ahead, the Courgars were able to get up 12 with space against the Gators but just like every game before Florida was not done. With about 7 minutes remaining there had been 11 ties and just 2 lead changes. As time continued to tick the Gators remained in striking distance and when it mattered they took the lead. Houston fought hard and made it close. Yet in the end they couldn’t even get a shot off at the end of the 40 minute battle. When the buzzer sounded, the Gators chomped the nets down and were named the 2024-2025 NCAA Tournament champions. Just incase you were wondering I did indeed get first place in my bracket for some extra credit.

The Champions

Opening Day

Today is March 27th, 2025, otherwise known as MLB Opening Day. YES. It is time for a delusional twins fan to tell you all the things you need to know about who’s gonna win, who’s not (the Whitesox), and why the Twins will win the world series.

The Twins Win it All

I know, I know, usually, people say save the best for last, but this kind of news can’t wait. Just kidding, the Twins will not win it all this year, but I believe we take a major step forward as an organization. What’s the step? Winning the Division. I believe that the Royals are the most challenging squad in the division. Why can we beat them out for first place? Depth.

What’s our Depth?

Listen I’m still just a casual fan who likes to make a prediction that benefits his team. Yeah sure I could put in the extensive work to back things up but I am a visual learner and hopefully you are too. So go look at the roster, and make up your real idea of how good our depth is, I have already.

Next Topic

Who will win today? Well to start let’s talk about the schedule. Schedule. Bang. Go look at it. no for the winners.

Drum roll please.

Games will be numbered below.

1. Milwaukee @ Yankees – Yanks take it
2. Baltimore Orioles @ Toronto Blue Jays – gimme the O’s
3. Boston @ Rangers (TEX) – I don’t know but gimme the rangers and deGrom
4. Philly @ Washington – I mean cmon go Phils.
5. Cleveland @ KC – KC
6. NYM – Houston Cheaters – Mets, “Its all about the Mets Baby!”
7. San Fran @ Cincy – Go Giants
8. ATL @ San Diego – Go Acuna and the Braves
9. Angels @ White Sox – yeesh both lose? Gimme the Angels.
10. Pit @ Miami – Gimme Skenes on opening day
11. Twins @ Cards – I mean is this a question go, Twins!
12. Detriot @ Dodger – Tigers cause f it!
13. Cubs @ Arizona – Cubbies need it
14. A’s @ Seattle – my MLB The Show player is on the Mariners, so go SEA

Alright well, thats it for Opening Day. If I forgot something ask a professional about the Twins game today.