What’s New in Downtown DSM: August 2026

Domino Effect by Ingrid Ingrid

221 Walnut St. | Cowles Commons
A larger-than-life interactive art experience is coming to Cowles Commons. From Saturday, Aug. 29 – Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2026, “Domino Effect” by Montreal-based art team Ingrid Ingrid will fill the outdoor space with oversized, colorful dominoes that come alive with light, movement and sound as visitors send them toppling. Multiple stations feature their own musical profiles, inviting visitors to play, collaborate and create an ever-changing experience in the heart of Downtown DSM.
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Fejeran Wellness Society

800 19th St. | Historic Sherman Hill
A newer addition to the Historic Sherman Hill neighborhood, Fejeran Wellness Society opened in early 2026 with a collective approach to self-care and well-being. The thoughtfully designed space is home to independent wellness practitioners offering complementary services ranging from massage and facials to breathwork, meditation, lymphatic bodywork and integrative mental health. Shared spaces, including a sanctuary lounge and community kitchen, add to the experience and offer a place to slow down before or after an appointment.
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The Friday Group Exhibition

909 Robert D. Ray Dr. | Polk County Heritage Gallery
A new exhibition at the Polk County Heritage Gallery brings together work from The Friday Group, a collective of artists who have gathered monthly for several years. Many members are also current or former art educators, bringing a range of perspectives and experiences to the gallery. On display now through Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026, the exhibition features drawing, painting, photography, mixed media, ceramics and jewelry.
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Mama Africa

700 Locust St. | Local Bites Food Court (Lower Level)
A familiar Downtown Farmers’ Market favorite now has a permanent home in Downtown DSM. Mama Africa opened inside the Local Bites Food Court on the lower level of the Greater Des Moines Partnership building in August. After building a following through catering, pop-ups and regular appearances at the Downtown Farmers’ Market, the new location gives diners a year-round place to enjoy West African favorites like jollof rice, fried plantains and goat meat.
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Nothing Major

608 Locust St.
A familiar Downtown DSM cocktail concept has stepped out from behind the hidden door and into a new street-level home. Good News, Darling has been reimagined as Nothing Major, a neighborhood bar located next to Des Moines Athletic Club. The new space trades the former speakeasy-style setting for a more casual atmosphere featuring high-concept and classic cocktails, frozen drinks and small-batch ice cream.
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Skywalk DSM

Mobile App
Navigating Downtown DSM’s four-mile skywalk system just got easier. Skywalk DSM is a free, community-built interactive mapping tool that offers point-to-point walking directions through the indoor network. Users can search for skywalk-connected businesses, restaurants, hotels, parking garages and more, making it easier for Downtown DSM workers and visitors to find their way without heading outside.
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Whether it’s a new business opening its doors, a development reaching a major milestone or a community amenity making its debut, there’s always something new to discover in Downtown Des Moines (DSM). Take a peep at last month’s edition, and follow along as we continue highlighting the latest updates from across Downtown.

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