Fine art and fine dining intertwine in an itinerary that spotlights Des Moines’ cultural and culinary standouts. Choose from multiple museums and more bars and restaurants than you can explore over a weekend. Enjoy globally recognized collections and the New American restaurant that made USA TODAY’s best restaurants list.
4 PM FRIDAY
Start the weekend with gelato at Chocolaterie-Stam, your stop for European-inspired confections.
The Des Moines Art Center
4:30-7 PM FRIDAY
Take advantage of the extended hours at the Des Moines Art Center to take in the latest exhibitions. Housed in buildings designed by world-renowned architects Eliel Saarinen, I. M. Pei, and Richard Meier, the extensive permanent collection includes pieces by celebrated artists such as Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keefe, Francisco Goya, and many more. Enjoy free admission and check the calendar for special events.
7-9 PM FRIDAY
Enjoy a casual dinner and drinks at local favorites like Star Bar or Eatery A. Both options are situated along Ingersoll Avenue in a walkable area with bars and restaurants that can satisfy any appetite.
9 AM SATURDAY
Start the morning with coffee and “Linda’s Special” at Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure, where the walls double as a gallery for affordable local art. Or, opt for brunch at Panka Peruvian, where you’ll find a fusion of flavors.
EXPLORE ANOTHER ITINERARY: Public Art & Parks for Families | Cocktails, Trails & Vibes
SATURDAY AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES
- Tour Terrace Hill, home to Iowa’s governors and their families. Guests begin with a short introductory video in the Carriage House and then proceed to the Residence and, weather permitting, gardens. (Reservations are required, with at least 48 hours notice.)
- Art and history appreciators will also enjoy Salisbury House & Gardens, a historic home built in the 1920s and modeled after the King’s House in Salisbury, England. See breathtaking works from the Weeks family collection. Reservations are recommended for guided tours.
- Pop into Moberg Gallery to view the latest exhibit—and perhaps even purchase a piece to add to your collection. Discover top Iowa and international artists here.
SATURDAY DINNER
Dine at the Chef’s Table at Oak Park
Ideally, you’ve already reserved a table at Oak Park, otherwise, you may be able to squeeze in at the bar when the fine dining restaurant opens at 4:30 p.m.
One of the most anticipated additions to Des Moines, Oak Park introduced its elevated hospitality to Des Moines in the fall of 2023. The chef-led cuisine quickly gained accolades, as the upscale menu made headlines. (Yes, there’s a $100 banana split that includes pistachio, banana saffron, and foie gras ice creams served with champagne mousse, and gold leaf. It’s finished off with armagnac caviar, shaved chocolate truffle, and served with a souvenir Oak Park spoon.) Some call it dessert, but we think it’s an edible work of art!
MORE TO EXPLORE
Performing arts add another dimension to your visit. Expected to reopen this fall following a $5 million renovation, the historic Ingersoll Dinner Theater will offer live music, theater and comedy performances Wednesdays through Sundays. Get tickets to the Willis Broadway Series at the Des Moines Civic Center, see the Symphony, or catch a matinee in Indianola during the Des Moines Metro Opera Summer Festival Season.
This itinerary is part of our “Expand Your Palate/Palette” series, highlighting the premier culinary and creative opportunities along The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand. This project paid for in part by the Iowa Tourism Office. Words by Brianne Sanchez. Visuals by Good Burt Media.
