What’s New in Downtown DSM: July 2026

From new businesses and community amenities to development updates and neighborhood improvements, there’s always something happening in Downtown Des Moines (DSM). Each month, we’ll round up some of the latest openings, announcements and projects shaping the heart of DSM. Here’s what’s new in Downtown DSM for July 2026.

Grounded by The Collective

316 E. 6th St.
Downtown DSM is now home to Iowa’s first Filipino coffee shop. Grounded by The Collective officially opened in Historic East Village on Saturday, July 11, 2026, serving Filipino-inspired coffee, specialty drinks and food. Founded by seven siblings, the café features favorites like ube lattes, halo-halo and rice bowls, bringing new flavors and culture to the Downtown dining scene.
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Skywalk Art Installations

New Skywalk Art Installations

Downtown Des Moines Skywalks
Downtown DSM’s public art collection continues to grow with two new installations in the skywalk system. The latest additions at the Wellmark YMCA and Capital Square feature vibrant works by Project7 Design and Iowa artist Jill Wells, bringing color, movement and creativity to two of Downtown’s busiest pedestrian corridors. The installations increase the total number of Downtown DSM skywalk art locations to eight.
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The Breakfast Club

418 E. Grand Ave.
A Downtown DSM brunch favorite has a fresh new home. The Breakfast Club has relocated its Historic East Village location to a brand-new, larger space across the street from Zombie Burger, offering guests the same colorful atmosphere and popular brunch menu.
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Simon Estes Riverfront Amphitheater

75 E. Locust St.
Following a major renovation, the Simon Estes Riverfront Amphitheater has reopened along the Des Moines River with improved accessibility, upgraded seating, enhanced lighting and sound infrastructure, and expanded amenities. This summer, the venue will once again come alive with community events, including Vibes in the Village on Saturday, July 18, 2026, and Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026. The Historic East Village series will feature live music, food, drinks, shopping and entertainment while marking the return of events to the amphitheater for the first time in seven years.
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Wild & Wonderful Exhibition at Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden's Evergreen Gallery

Wild & Wonderful Exhibition

909 Robert D. Ray Dr.
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s Evergreen Gallery is showcasing “Wild & Wonderful”, a new exhibition featuring botanically inspired mixed-media artwork by Iowa artists. On display through Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026, the rotating exhibit celebrates nature through a variety of artistic perspectives, with all artwork available for purchase.
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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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Greater Des Moines Partnership

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the largest regional business, economic development and talent development organization in Iowa and the second-largest regional chamber of commerce in the country, serving multiple counties in Greater Des Moines. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 7,200 Regional Chamber Members, The Partnership helps businesses grow and advances quality of life in Greater Des Moines with one voice, one mission and as one region, contributing to a vibrant regional economy.