By Claire Kohl
Looking to get your groove on, but don’t know where to go? As an official Cultural & Entertainment district, you can count on The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand to have live music. Read below to plan your next night out! 🎵
1. The Greenwood Lounge
3707 Ingersoll Ave
This dive bar opened right after prohibition in 1933, making it the oldest active bar in Des Moines! Just this year, new owner Connor Delaney gave the bar a “facelift” while keeping artifacts from the Depression-era intact.
What kind of music? This historic bar is known for hosting free live music daily, including blues, rock, Americana, and acoustic music.
When? Every day. You read that right – every day. See the September lineup here. This Facebook group regularly posts live music updates regarding this beloved dive bar.
2. The Ingersoll Dinner Theater
3711 Ingersoll Ave
Meet Greenwood Lounge’s next-door neighbor since 1939! The Ingersoll was among the first movie theaters in Iowa dedicated exclusively to sound films before closing in 1979. Connor Delaney gave yet another beloved Ingersoll landmark the historic upgrade it needed, creating The Ingersoll into Des Moines’ only live dinner theater!
What kind of music? All sorts! From Elton John impersonators to boy bands, you’ll find it at The Ingersoll. Every ticket at The Ingersoll includes dinner and a show, plus drinks and dessert for purchase, to create an unforgettable experience.
When? View their current lineup of events and buy tickets.
3. Yacht Club
2617 Ingersoll Ave
Since 1986, this has been another popular dive bar on Ingersoll that regularly features live music. Bonus: It is nearly next door to late-night favorite Big Tomato Pizza so after a night of listening to live music and dancing, you can enjoy a slice of fresh pizza.
What kind of music? Rock, indie, jazz, and hip-hop.
When? The Yacht Club regularly hosts live music on weekend evenings. Stop into the bar to see the line-up posted.
4. The Chamberlain Pub at Wesley on Grand
3520 Grand Ave
This amenity at Wesley on Grand isn’t just for residents – it is open to the public Wednesday through Friday from 5 – 8 p.m. Grab a glass of wine or one of their signature cocktails and take in this warm, swanky venue with stunning historical architecture.
What kind of music? Piano.
When? The Chamberlain offers frequent live music, including world-renowned pianist and composer Dan Knight on Wednesday evenings.
3. Ingersoll LIVE!
2800 block of Ingersoll Ave
Now in our 23rd year, it is safe to say this ultimate summer block party is a community favorite! This annual festival is free and fun for the whole family, with 30+ vendors, a Kids Zone and a beer tent for the adults.
What kind of music? A total of 5 live bands perform music on 2 stages: Mediacom and Studio One. Take a look at our recent lineup!
When? Every summer on the last Saturday in August. Mark your calendar for August 28, 2027.
Occasional Live Music:
Follow on social media for announcements!
- Dugan’s Hideaway (speakeasy behind The Station on Ingersoll), 3124 Ingersoll Ave
- Wellman’s Pub Ingersoll, 2811 Ingersoll Ave
- The Alpine Taproom, 2720 Ingersoll Ave
