8 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 bars are the you must experience for yourself! Get your special password and secret handshake ready.
316 Court Ave., Des Moines
Cheers to tiki bar vibes and handcrafted cocktails under the glow of pink neon. This Downtown Des Moines nightlife venue will transport you to the beach before you’ve even ordered a drink!
223 E. Walnut St., Des Moines
Known for tequila and Mezcal, great vinyl music, its red neon aesthetic and hidden location.
208 Court Ave., Des Moines
Somewhat fancy, somewhat divey. Located in the basement of RoCA in the Historic Court District of Downtown Des Moines.
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.
717 Locust St., Des Moines
This small cocktail parlor has every detail of handcrafted drinks perfected, located behind Hello, Marjorie in Downtown DSM.
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.
110 S.W. 5th St., Des Moines
With a pop-up-bar-style atmosphere, Secret Admirer’s outdoor patio space is the worst kept secret and best view of Downtown Des Moines.
210 4th St., Des Moines
This little hidey-hole in Downtown Des Moines’ Historic Court District boasts 90 Belgian-style beers in addition to an extensive Scotch list available within Royal Mile, located just downstairs.
1000 Walnut St., Des Moines
Opened in 2023 in the Hotel Fort Des Moines, the newest 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?
Plan your visit to Downtown DSM with these tips for parking and navigation, and find additional restaurants and nightlife options.
Greater Des Moines Partnership
DSM USA is the regional identifier for Greater Des Moines (DSM). DSM USA is a bold statement to the world: This is a welcoming, diverse and vibrant community with affordable and accessible amenities for residents and businesses. This regional identifier is the result of significant quantitative and qualitative research.
The Partnership will champion the DSM USA message, and encourages its Investors, its more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and DSM USA Ambassadors to help share the region's story with One Voice.