Historic Court District
Music spills into the streets, joined by laughter, lively chatter, and the enticing scents from the Historic Court District’s diverse mix of restaurants, creating an atmosphere that’s vibrant, social and full of life. You’ll find cultural food at local restaurants here like Hessen Haus’ German fare, the Royal Mile British pub. Other restaurants like RoCA, Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. and Pho Real Kitchen & Bar provide a vast assortment of food options. Tons of bars and nightlife venues bring the city scenery to life after dark, ranging from court themed drinks at Judges to hundreds of martini flavors at The Stuffed Olive, even a game lounge and arcade bar called Ricochet. If food, drink and entertainment is what you’re looking for, Historic Court District is your one-stop shop.
Things to Do
The Historic Court District has seen several changes since its inception in 1846 but for more than 100 years, it has been anchored at the west end by the Polk County Courthouse. Period streetlamps, planters and park benches dot the sidewalks as they extend east to the Meredith Trail and the Principal Riverwalk, making the Historic Court District an attractive and pedestrian-friendly outdoor setting.
Fresh flavors and smells abound year-round. Every Saturday from May through October, the Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health — with nearly 300 entrepreneurial vendors each week — entices throngs of weekend shoppers, street entertainers and musicians. The Market offers visitors and residents the chance to meander through one of the country's largest outdoor markets.
Additional festivals and events bring energy to the Historic Court District throughout the year including the Dam to DSM half marathon, which draws runners and spectators alike to Downtown.
From baseball to Broadway, the Historic Court District is also the heart of Downtown DSM’s activity base. Nearby Historic Court District is the Des Moines Civic Center, which serves as an outstanding source of entertainment and enlightenment. Broadway shows from around the world come to the Des Moines Civic Center, and the world-class Des Moines Symphony also performs there.
Outdoor Recreation
Adjacent to the Civic Center is Cowles Commons, home to the Crusoe Umbrella art sculpture, one of several seasonal Downtown painted pianos and an eye-catching artful lighting display by Jim Campbell, “Swirl.” Cowles Commons hosts many outdoor events in a park-like setting throughout the year.
Just south within a short walk of the Historic Court District catch a game at Principal Park, a breathtaking minor league ballpark and home to the Iowa Cubs (AAA affiliate of the Chicago Cubs). Every Friday home game features fireworks displays which makes for a winning Downtown tradition.
A top attraction, the Science Center of Iowa, engages and inspires visitors of all ages.
Housing
An assortment of residential lofts and apartments perched above and throughout the Historic Court District encompass the live, work and play feel of the thriving Downtown DSM scene.
With the Fourth + Court Hy-Vee grocery store and even more development slated, the Historic Court District is setting the standard for the future of Downtown DSM.
Restaurants & Nightlife
There is no shortage of restaurants and places to grab a drink in the Historic Court District. For a selection of British dishes, beers and Scotch, wander into The Royal Mile. Take on a different part of Europe by stopping by Hessen Haus where authentic German food and bier are available. Thinking of something a bit more tropical? Transport yourself to paradise at Revival House with an exotic drink.
The Stuffed Olive on Court Ave. serves American dishes and has a menu of over forty martinis as well as other handcrafted cocktails. For a cozy bar with great outdoor seating and a view of the skyline, visit Secret Admirer. Interested in an evening of skeeball, foosball, bubble hockey or an old-fashioned board game? Ricochet can offer all those games and more while serving up local beers, fine wines and cocktails.
To find more restaurants and nightlife options, check out Catch Des Moines.