The Ultimate Guide to Nightlife in Downtown Des Moines
Looking for the ultimate night out in Downtown Des Moines (DSM)? You’re in the right place! From laid-back local watering holes to lively spots with cool patios, this guide covers it all. Whether you’re after bars with a great ambiance, arcade and game bars for some friendly competition, or bars with dance floors in Downtown Des Moines where you can party all night, find it here! Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Downtown Des Moines, and discover the best spots to make your next night out unforgettable.
Jump to Downtown Bars & Nightlife Category:
Local Watering Holes | Awesome Patios | Cool Ambiance | Game & Arcade Bars | Places to Dance and Hear Music | Hidden Gems & Speakeasies
Home to a variety of local watering holes, Downtown DSM offers a slew of laid-back spots, perfect for both locals and visitors. Des Moines’ Downtown bars are where you’ll find great craft beers, signature cocktails and friendly service, making them ideal for casual meetups or unwinding after a long day. From neighborhood pubs to hidden gems, these watering holes capture a lowkey vibe, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable night out for everyone.
Beechwood Lounge
Neighborhood: Historic East Village
A laid-back neighborhood bar, Beechwood Lounge is known for its friendly vibe and no-frills atmosphere. Offering affordable drinks, pool tables and jukebox tunes, it’s the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends in an unpretentious setting.
facebook.com/beech.wood.31
The Blazing Saddle
Neighborhood: Historic East Village
If you’re looking for a LGBTQ+ friendly bar in Downtown Des Moines, this is one of the best! Known for its friendly and welcoming feels, The Blazing Saddle is the perfect place to enjoy Happy Hour, Trivia Night or drag cosplay (pictured above) — always without a cover.
theblazingsaddle.com
Carl’s Place
Neighborhood: Sherman Hill
A beloved dive bar in the area, known for its cheap drinks and friendly crowd. The no-frills spot is the good spot to unwind with friends. With its retro decor and relaxed vibe, Carl’s is a true local favorite.
carlsplacedsm.com
The LiFT
Neighborhood: Historic Court District
The low-key martini bar in Downtown DSM offers a cozy place to hang out with expertly crafted classic cocktails and rotating Iowa beers on tap. A popular spot due to its chill ambiance, The LiFT also showcases new local artwork each month, making it an ideal spot for drinks and creative inspo.
dmlift.com
Boasting a variety of bars with cool patios, Downtown Des Moines has so many options for an evening under the night sky. Many of these hotspots provide stunning views of the city skyline, while others provide cozy, casual outdoor spaces. Whether you’re enjoying craft cocktails, local brews or live music, these patio bars in Downtown Des Moines give off a nice blend of relaxation and energy for a memorable night out.
Annie’s Irish Pub
Neighborhood: Historic Court District
This little pub in the center of Court Avenue is a lively Downtown Des Moines nightlife spot known for its Irish charm. Offering a mix of classic Irish drinks, cold beers and poppin’ energy, Annie’s Irish Pub all about live music, a great time with friends and — of course — the massive outdoor patio.
anniesirish.pub
Tipsy Crow Tavern
Neighborhood: Historic Court District
A popular bar in the heart of the city, you’ll love the energetic mood, live tunes and spacious rooftop patio here. Offering a big selection of beers, cocktails and tasty bar food, Tipsy Crow Tavern is your go-to for a fun night out with friends.
facebook.com/TipsyCrowTavern
300 Craft & Rooftop
Neighborhood: Near Market District & Principal Park
This is a trendy bar offering stunning Downtown Des Moines skyline views from its rooftop patio. Flip through the menu of extensive craft beer picks and creative cocktails. You can’t miss this stylish setting on a night out!
300craftandrooftop.com
Tonic Court
Neighborhood: Historic Court District
With a spacious outdoor patio (shown above) right in the middle of the Downtown nightlife action, Tonic on Court Avenue is a popular spot for socializing and enjoying drinks, making it a go-to destination for a fun night out with a creative craft cocktail in hand.
toniccourt.com
Downtown Des Moines nightlife establishments bring cool, distinct ambiances that set the perfect mood for going out on the town. From sultry speakeasy-style spots to more intimate, industrial-chic locations, you’re sure to find the perfect place for drinks mixed with conversation.
Bellhop Tiki
Neighborhood: Historic East Village
A fun, tropical-themed bar offering vibrant tiki cocktails and retro-chic surroundings, Bellhop Tiki boasts a menu full of playful drinks served in colorful glasses. Offering a laid-back vibe, this is the perfect place to escape and enjoy a unique night out with friends.
bellhoptikidsm.com
Good News Darling
Neighborhood: Downtown Core
Good News Darling is a true cocktail bar where you’ll find an upscale yet cozy vibe. Known for its expertly crafted drinks and intimate feel, it’s an ideal spot for a girls’ or guys’ night out, date night or other special occasion, providing a sophisticated experience in the center of the action in Downtown DSM.
exploretock.com/good-news-darling
Revival House
Neighborhood: Historic Court District
A trendy cocktail lounge known for its speakeasy-style ambiance and creative drinks, Revival House is a hidden gem, tucked away in the Historic Court District. This intimate spot is where you’ll find expertly crafted cocktails and cozy seating.
revivalhousedsm.com
If you’re looking for the perfect place for a lively night out with friends, find the entertainment you’re looking for at a game and arcade bar in Downtown Des Moines. Many of these fun-filled places boast retro arcade games, skee-ball and pinball machines, creating a nostalgic vibe while you sip on craft beers or specialty cocktails. The ideal spots for friendly competition, laughter, a laid-back evening of socializing — and also the perfect place to watch the game. Whether you’re battling it out on classic arcade matchups or enjoying a round of ping pong, these venues promise a night of camaraderie.
Johnny’s Hall of Fame
Neighborhood: Historic Court District
A sports bar with deep roots in Downtown DSM, Johnny’s Hall of Fame offers a lively space to catch the game and enjoy a cold drink. With plenty of TVs, classic pub food, and a great selection of beers on tap, it’s the perfect spot for sports fans looking for a relaxed, game-day atmosphere.
johnnyshalloffame.com
Ricochet
Neighborhood: Historic Court District
Ricochet (shown above) is a social bar offering a fun, interactive experience with ping pong, shuffleboard, and other games, making it a great spot for casual competition with friends. Enjoy craft drinks and small bites in a laid-back atmosphere while embracing your inner competitor. The energetic vibe and variety of games make it a favorite in Downtown DSM.
ricochetsocial.com/locations/dsm
Up-Down
Neighborhood: Historic East Village
A retro arcade bar (pictured below) that offers the perfect mix of nostalgia and fun, Up-Down guarantees a playful night out. Featuring classic arcade games, pinball machines, skee-ball, and more, this lively bar pairs great entertainment with an impressive selection of craft beers and cocktails. Whether you’re looking to challenge your friends to a game or relax on the outdoor patio, Up-Down is THE place to be.
updownarcadebar.com/des-moines
Meet us on the dance floor in Downtown Des Moines and we’ll dance the night away! These bars offer high-energy dance floors, vibrant music and party atmospheres to keep going all night. With DJs spinning top hits, themed dance nights and colorful lighting, these venues are the go-to spots for anyone looking to let loose and enjoy a memorable night out!
The Garden Nightclub
Neighborhood: Historic East Village
A popular LGBTQ+ bar in Downtown Des Moines, The Garden Nightclub is where you’ll find a high-energy dance floor, vibrant drag shows and live performances. With its lively atmosphere, colorful lighting and rotating DJs playing everything from pop hits to electronic dance music, The Garden is the ultimate place to dance the night away in a fun, inclusive environment.
grdn.com
Noce
Neighborhood: Western Gateway
As Iowa's premier place to hear live jazz, Noce's intimate concerts and classic cocktails lend to an atmosphere like no other in Downtown DSM. Hear the Des Moines Big Band, the in-residence act playing Wednesday nights or join Max Wellman on Saturday nights for Wellman's Last Call Series. You can see touring national acts, too!
nocedsm.com
PBR Country Bar
Neighborhood: Historic Court District
PBR Country Bar brings the excitement of country nightlife to Downtown DSM, complete with a mechanical bull, dance floors and top country hits. For those who love line dancing or just want to embrace their inner cowboy or cowgirl, PBR is a fun, energetic atmosphere where you can enjoy live music, themed nights and a great selection of drinks.
facebook.com/pbrcountry
Voodoo Lounge
Neighborhood: Historic Court District
This Court Avenue hotspot is a sleek and stylish nightclub and a chic atmosphere. Find a mix of house music, hip-hop and top hits playing all night. Known for its upscale vibe, VIP bottle service and spacious dance floor.
facebook.com/voodooloungedm
Let us let you in on a little secret: there are several very cool (and sometimes hidden!) bars and speakeasies in Downtown Des Moines. These places are where you'll find a unique experience you must see for yourself! Dive deeper at this roundup of 10 spots you need to visit.
And if you’re in search of the best beers and drinks to enjoy this fall, we’ve got you covered with our recommendations to help you sip in style all season long!
Find more Downtown Des Moines nightlife options and restaurants, and plan your visit with these tips for parking and navigation.