The best things to do in Des Moines

“Whether you're a low-handicap hero or just here for the walk, Waveland Golf Course is the oldest municipal course west of the Mississippi with an 18-hole, classic layout through rolling wooded hills and sneaky slopes. Grab a tee time this week and let those fairways keep you honest.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 9, 2026

“If your week needs a little luxe, Wakonda Club pairs a William Langford 18-hole course that overlooks downtown with clay-court tennis, lively pools, and legit clubhouse dining. Consistently ranked among the best in the Midwest, it’s a go-to for members looking to mix tee times with good times.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Fleur Cinema & Café has been Des Moines’ go-to for new indie, foreign, and quality Hollywood releases, plus frequent classics that viewers help pick. Make it a proper night with their full coffee bar, draft beer, wine, Italian sodas, fresh popcorn, and dessert bars.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Skip the scroll and let Varsity Cinema pick for you with prestige new releases, art house and international gems, curated classics, late-night oddities, and even concert films and opera on the big screen. Low-key perfect for a weeknight reset or a spirited Movie Bash with friends.”

From the Urbandale newsletter, August 27, 2026

“The Fat Putter Des Moines brings outrageous mini-golf vibes downtown with quirky holes, a legit cocktail bar, and a shiny arcade for bonus bragging rights. Rally your crew, sink some questionable shots, then celebrate with the other kind... it’s competitive cardio with better lighting.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Flix Brewhouse pairs first run blockbusters with on-site brewed beer like Nebulas Hazy IPA, Lucha Libre Mexican Lager, and seasonal pours, plus push-button, seat-side service for burgers, hand-tossed pizzas, wings, and warm cookies. Treat yourself to a recliner, a pint, and zero compromises this week.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Woodland Hills Golf Course offers an 18-hole regulation course for all skill levels, plus an Executive 9 you can loop in as little as an hour, perfect for sneaking in real golf between work and dinner. Leagues, Couple's Twilight, and fun tournaments keep the vibe lively, so grab a buddy this week.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is an easy win this week, with a tropical geodesic dome escape and outdoor borders popping with seasonal color and edibles. Drop in for art exhibits, hands-on classes, and chill summer concert nights, then head home inspired to finally tame that yard.”

From the Ankeny newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Sneak in a round at Bright Grandview Golf Course, a Des Moines classic since 1902 that trades length for brains with tree-lined fairways, domed greens, and sneaky elevation. It’s a shorter track that still bites back, perfect for sharpening irons and smug two-putts this week.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, August 30, 2026