History buffs, visit the State Historical Society of Iowa to learn the state's rich heritage. Explore historical artifacts and documents telling the story of the state as seen through the eyes of its politicians and citizens. The exhibits detail the ambitions, accomplishments and contributions made by the people of the capital city.
Raise a glass at Oktoberfest, the popular festival turns downtown Des Moines into the largest bar in the world. Festival goers drink lots and lots of ice cold German beer, eat German food and check out bier maidens and dance a lot of polka! Come celebrate a beery good time!
Harvest local produce at the Des Moines Farmers Market located in downtown Des Moines. Stock your refrigerator with farm fresh eggs, goat cheese and seasonal vegetables. Buy an array of fresh flowers and wines for your home. As they say, "Come for the freshness and stay for the fun."
It's your lucky night out at Shorty's Irish Pub! Formerly an underground speakeasy-style bar, the new owners put an Irish twist on the dive bar's atmosphere. Crawl into a hidden booth at this cozy nightlife spot and enjoy a bowl of Irish stew and shot of Irish whiskey. Afterwards, make new friends when you test your luck at a game of Irish Rings.