Secret Speakeasies and Cool Bars in Downtown Des Moines
We’re going to let you in on a little secret: these Downtown Des Moines (DSM) speakeasies and cool retro bars are an experience you must see for yourself! Get your special password and secret handshake ready.
Alleged Lee's
501 Grand Ave., Des Moines
Alleged Lee’s is a dimly lit, swanky hangout perfect for happy hour or late-night socializing and networking (or, as we like to call it, schmoozing). Peruse the artwork showcased around the bar that tells the story of prohibition-era Des Moines.
facebook.com/allegedleesdsm
Black Sheep
223 E. Walnut St., Des Moines
Known for tequila and Mezcal, great vinyl music, its red neon aesthetic and hidden location, Black Sheep is a must-visit speakeasy with a gothic aesthetic.
facebook.com/blacksheepdsm
Hello, Marjorie
717 Locust St., Des Moines
Tagline: Damn fine times. We couldn’t agree more! Step away from bustling Downtown Des Moines streets into this 1970s-era living room for the best handcrafted cocktails that won’t leave you thirsty.
hellomarjorie.com
In Confidence
1000 Walnut St., Des Moines
Located in the Hotel Fort Des Moines, this speakeasy bar in Downtown Des Moines has a hidden doorknob for entry, cozy and semi-private spaces, Great Gatsby-style drinks … what more could you want?
hotelfortdesmoines.com/dining/in-confidence
Ken's – a not so secret speakeasy
215 E. 3rd St. #100, Des Moines
Listen to jazz, swing, blues, ragtime and vintage covers while sipping on Prohibition-era cocktails, drinks, beer, wine and whiskey. Enter through Iowa Taproom in the Historic East Village.
facebook.com/KensDSM
Just outside of Downtown, two other nightlife locations in Des Moines offer speakeasy, old-school vibes. Chicago Speakeasy's prohibition-era feel is perfect for lunch, dinner or drinks, while Highland Underground in Highland Park is a '70s-inspired cocktail lounge.
Revival House
316 Court Ave., Des Moines
Cheers to retro tiki bar vibes and handcrafted cocktails under the glow of pink neon. This Downtown Des Moines nightlife venue, located within the Blue Sushi Saki Grill building, will transport you to the beach before you’ve even ordered a drink.
revivalhousedsm.com
The Haunt
500 Locust St., Des Moines
A haunted house speakeasy open year-round? If you're a fan of the The Slaughterhouse, one of Des Moines' main haunted attractions, but don't want to wait until Halloween season for an eerie experience, head to The Haunt and enjoy horror-themed cocktails at this spooky speakeasy.
facebook.com/thehauntdm
The New Northwestern
321 E. Walnut St., Des Moines
Looking for a retro-themed cocktail bar? The New Northwestern in the Historic East Village offers the ultimate throwback: velvet seating. Gin and tonic flights await, too — try the American Rail, the Imported Rail or the Custom Rail.
thenewnorthwestern.com
Plan your visit to Downtown DSM with these tips for parking and navigation, and find additional restaurants and nightlife options.
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