Spend a Girls Weekend in Des Moines

Des Moines: The Perfect Midwest Getaway

Des Moines, Iowa—a hidden gem in the heart of the Midwest! With amazing food, a clean environment, easy travel, fun entertainment, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet, the city is perfect for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re planning a girls trip, a staycation, or a short escape between small-town adventures, Iowa’s capital city has something for everyone.

Easy to Navigate, Fun to Explore

One of the best parts about Des Moines is how easy it is to get around. Unlike larger cities where getting from one place to another can be a hassle, Des Moines offers a relaxed pace and straightforward layout that makes exploring stress-free.

Locals often call it a “20-minute city” because nearly everything—from shopping and dining to live music and outdoor adventures—is just a short drive away. Whether you’re walking around downtown, hopping over to the East Village, or heading north toward Ankeny, you can fit a lot of fun into one weekend without spending hours in traffic.

If you’re flying in, the Des Moines International Airport is only about ten minutes from downtown, making arrival and departure a breeze. Ride-share options are easy to find, and parking downtown is refreshingly simple.

Savoring Des Moines: Enjoying Local Eats

Des Moines has quietly become one of the Midwest’s best food destinations. You’ll find chef-driven restaurants, trendy rooftop patios, and cozy brunch spots—perfect for a girls weekend filled with good conversation and great food.

Start your trip with brunch at St. Kilda, a local favorite known for its coffee and avocado toast. For lunch or cocktails, head to The Republic on Grand, located on a rooftop overlooking downtown, where the views are as good as the menu.

If you’re in the mood for dinner with style, Lucca in the East Village is a must. Its pasta and wine list are ideal for a slow, indulgent evening. For something more casual, Eatery A offers Mediterranean-inspired small plates, pizzas, and sangria on tap.

And don’t forget dessert—stop at Horizon Line Coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up or The Outside Scoop for locally made ice cream (trust me, it’s worth it).

Downtown Des Moines is full of activity, too. You can stroll through the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden for a peaceful break from the city, walk along the Principal Riverwalk, or check out the Downtown Farmers’ Market on Saturday morning for local food, flowers, and live music.

Nightlife and Entertainment

After dinner, keep the fun going with Des Moines’ laid-back nightlife scene. Start with cocktails at Hello, Marjorie, a stylish retro bar downtown, or grab live music and drinks at The Rooftop on Court Avenue. For a relaxed girls-night vibe, try Noce, a jazz and cocktail lounge that feels straight out of another era.

If you’re visiting in the summer, look for outdoor concerts at Water Works Park or Brenton Skating Plaza, which transforms into a lively open-air venue when the weather’s warm.

Hello Marjorie cocktail bar

The Cheese Bar in Des Moines

Venturing Beyond: Valley Junction and Ankeny

When you’re ready to explore beyond downtown, make your way to Valley Junction in West Des Moines. This charming district is known for boutique shopping and creative experiences like candle-pouring at The Candle Bar. Don’t miss the chance to browse local shops like Hinge or grab a pastry and coffee at St. Kilda Collective nearby.

In Ankeny, spend the day at The District at Prairie Trail, where you’ll find delicious food at District 36 and Main Street Café, along with unique shops like Real Deals and Maria Vincent Boutique. It’s the perfect place for lunch, shopping, and laughs with your best friends.

Weekend Itinerary Ideas

• Friday Night:
  Check into your hotel—try The Surety Hotel or AC Hotel by Marriott downtown. Start your weekend with rooftop drinks at The Republic on Grand, followed by dinner in the East Village.

• Saturday:
  Grab coffee and breakfast at St. Kilda before heading to the Downtown Farmers’ Market. Spend the afternoon shopping in Valley Junction or exploring the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. End the night with dinner and live music downtown.

• Sunday:
  Sleep in, brunch at Eatery A or Main Street Café, and make one last stop for dessert or shopping before heading home.

The Perfect Girls Weekend in the Midwest

Des Moines combines convenience, creativity, and charm in a way few cities do. It’s easy to explore, full of personality, and has just the right mix of fun and relaxation.

Whether you’re sipping rooftop cocktails, shopping in local boutiques, or laughing over brunch, Des Moines is the perfect backdrop for a girls weekend you’ll never forget.

Want to find a sweet treat while in Des Moines?

Check out the best ice cream shops.