Pair Fun with Food During Spring Break 2023

Looking for ideas for spring break next week? We’ve got you covered! Check out “Pair This with That” options for both kids and adults to make it a memorable spring break in Greater Des Moines (DSM) for the entire family. There are plenty of attractions, events and destinations across the region to keep you busy.

Spring Break Pairings for the Kids

If you’re going to learn a new skill during a Jester Park spring break camp, you should check out Papa’s Pizzeria.

Over spring break, Jester Park Outdoor Recreation & Wellness Center will hold several skills-building camps for kids 10+. Click the links below for information on particular classes throughout the week. The deadline for signup is Monday, March 13 and registration is required.

BOULDERING – Tuesday, March 14

AIR RIFLE – Wednesday, March 15

SURVIVAL SKILLS – Thursday, March 16

GEOCACHING – Friday, March 17

Horse Adventures Camp will also be held on different days for various ages 5 – 12 during the week of spring break.

Once you’ve finished camp, head over to Papa’s Pizzeria in Polk City, where homemade recipes for sandwiches, pizza and pastas ensure you get your fill of delicious food right on the town square.

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If you’re going to take part in an Escape Room, you should check out The U Bar & Grill.

Urbandale’s family escape room experiences begin at Breakout. There are multiple time slots per day for the duration of spring break. Check out “Island Escape,” where you must find your way to safety before the lava reaches the shore, or “Mystery Mansion,” where participants must uncover the secrets of an old mansion.

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When you stop by for lunch at The U in Urbandale, you’ll find a menu item everyone in the family will like. From sandwiches to pizza to burgers to tacos, you can’t go wrong with so many options.

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If you’re touring Jordan House Museum, you should round out your history lesson with a movie and a meal at Jordan Creek Town Center.

Guided tours of Jordan House Museum in West Des Moines are open to the public Friday and Sunday at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and require a ticket in advance. On the tour, you can learn about the impact James C. Jordan made as a stopover on the Underground Railroad.

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Once you’ve gotten your history lesson, it’s time for some fun. Head over to Jordan Creek Town Center where you can see a movie at Century 20 Jordan Creek & XD or stop by the food court for lunch or dinner.

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If you’re heading to see the animals at Blank Park Zoo, you should check out Bordenaro’s Pizzeria.

At Blank Park Zoo during spring break, you can attend “Storytime with Ruby the Reading Red Panda” on Monday, March 13 at 11 a.m. or learn about Panamanian Golden Frogs on Wednesday, March 15 from 10 until 2 pm. during “DISCOVER the WILD Days.”

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After you’ve seen all there is to see at the zoo, head to Bordenaro’s Pizzeria where the fam can devour the “Bordy’s Special,” “Taco,” or just plain cheese pizza. Start your order off with the “Double Dipped Onion Rings” or the “Bosco Sticks.”

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Find even more kid-friendly ideas for spring break in Downtown DSM here!

Spring Break Pairings for Adults

If you’re going to see 1776 at the Des Moines Civic Center, you should check out Splash.

1776 is playing at the Des Moines Civic Center in Downtown DSM. The Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of events leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence with songs such as “Sit Down, John,” “Is Anybody There?” and “Yours, Yours, Yours.” The show runs from Tuesday, March 14 through Sunday, March 19.

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At Splash Seafood Bar & Grill, you’ll find some of the best seafood in the region. Try the sea scallops, swordfish or lobster. Chef specialties include the “Lobster Mac & Cheese” and “Sriracha Scallops.”

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If you’re going to see John Krantz + Randy Ward Duo at Louie’s Wine Dive, you should check out the Des Moines Art Center before you go.

On Wednesday, March 15 from 6 – 9 p.m., John Krantz and Randy Ward will perform an evening of jazz at Louie’s Wine Dive in Des Moines. Try the “Champagne Fish & Chips” along with a seasonal dessert as you enjoy the sounds of great music.

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If you’re planning dinner at Louie’s, you’ll be in the neighborhood of the Des Moines Art Center, too, open Wednesdays until 4 p.m. (meaning you can catch Happy Hour easily at Louie’s, too!). Admission is free at the Art Center. Check out the 75 Years of Iowa Art exhibition while you’re there. It runs through Sunday, May 7.

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If you’re running in the Des Moines St. Paddy’s Marathon, Half-Marathon & 5K at the Iowa State Capitol, you should visit 1908 Draught House after your run.

Earn your finisher pint glass and run for a cause when you take part in this Downtown DSM St. Paddy’s run! Race day is Saturday, March 18. The Marathon and Half-Marathon start at 7:45 a.m. and the 5K starts at 8:30 a.m.

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Indulge with lunch at 1908 Draught House in Historic Court District after the race. Try the “Chicago Dog,” “Meatza Burger” or “Southside Sausage,” which features Graziano link sausage. For dessert, order up three chocolate chip cookies, the “Funnel Cake Fries” or “Chocolate Lava Cake.”

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Before you golf at Broheim’s Indoor Golf & Pub, grab a coffee from The Coffeesmith.

In Waukee, Broheim’s offers indoor simulators from About Golf that are the perfect way to perfect your golf game in Iowa’s spring weather.

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The Coffeesmith has traditional espresso, frappes and more, available along Alice’s Road in Waukee. Not far from Broheim’s, it’s a quick trip that’ll get you geared up for golf with friends. “The Irish Layer” is one of The Coffeemith’s seasonal drink featuring caramel, amaretto and espresso.

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The Greater Des Moines Partnership calendar of events is a one-stop resource for activities taking place throughout the region. Find networking information for Greater Des Moines (DSM) businesses or events specific to Downtown DSM.