2013 ultimate guide to des moines

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2 • 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines

EditorTim Paluch

DesignerAmanda Holladay

Copy EditorsCharles Flesher, KimberlyIsburg, Joe Hawkins, DarlaAdair-Petroski

Staff contributorsSarah Dose, Joe Lawler,Michael Morain, Tim Paluch

ContributorsWini Moranville, Erin Randolph

The Des Moines Register

Vice President, ContentRick Green

Vice President, AdvertisingMark Wurzer

These materials are the soleand exclusive property of theDes Moines Register & TribuneCo. and are not to be usedwithout its written permission.

© 2013 Des Moines Register &Tribune Co.

FROM THE EDITOR

From the dining scene to the arts and culture scene to the livemusic scene, the Des Moines metro area, we can all agree, istrending up.

Want proof? Spend some time flipping through this magazine,the 2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines. To experience centralIowa to the fullest in the coming months, consider this yourdefinitive guide. Fill your social calendar with 12 months of events,scratch together your bucket list of Des Moines restaurants to visit,map out your outdoor hiking/running/biking/paddling/campingplan for the summer.

And there’s even more great local content at yourfingertips. By downloading our LifeInAction app onyour smartphone or tablet you can see pages ofthis magazine come to life. Just look for this logo instories and advertisements, open the app and pointthe camera at the page (for more detailed in-structions, see page 4).

Then you’ll see the Ultimate Guide pages come to life. A foodexpert will tell you about the state of the dining scene. You’ll flipthrough photo highlights of all the past Blue Ribbon Bacon Festi-vals. An interactive golf course map will pop up on your screen,giving you information on each course. You can take a virtualphoto tour of the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Even the little roboton the front cover will come alive.

Download the app. Flip through — and keep — this magazine.Then get out and experience all that central Iowa has to offer.

Tim Paluch

Editor, Lifestyle & Entertainment,The Des Moines [email protected], 515-286-2564

Contentsfood ................................................6

nightlife.....................................19

entertainment ......................26

arts & culture .........................46

outdoors ...................................54

shop..............................................61

30

55



‘Fresh” describesthe Des Moinesdining scene inmore ways thanone. While fresh

food immediately comes to mind,today’s diners often seek freshconcepts on the plate and freshexperiences in the dining room,

too. Here are ways in whichDes Moines restaurateurs aresatisfying our quests for fresh.

FRESH FOOD

Though fresh, local and seasonalare current culinary buzzwords,this movement actually began inthe 1970s, when Alice Watersopened Chez Panisse restaurantin Berkeley, Calif. But let’s face it,

the creed was a slow traincoming to Des Moines.

The problem was often supply —after all, what good is a chef’spassion for in-season heirloomtomatoes, spring garlic, wildramps and other fresh andfascinating locally grown produceif chefs can’t get their hands onit?

Des Moineskeeps it fresh

Sally Gran, left, holds a cabbage seedlingas she talks with Kelly Foss, director ofDes Moines’ Downtown Farmers Market,as they walk the fields of TableTop Farmlast spring. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

ByWini MoranvilleSpecial to the Register

food

Restaurateurs,local producersteam up to bringnew foods,unique ideasto dining scene


2013 Ultimate Guide to Des Moines • 7

Thankfully, as more growers putdown stakes in the land, morerestaurants are able to take thefresh-and-local ethos not only toheart, but to plate as well.

“We’ve gone from ‘just Larry’ toa proliferation of growers acrossthe state,” says Paul Rottenberg,president of OrchestrateHospitality, which managesCentro, Django, Zombie Burger,Gateway Market, Raccoon River,Mezzodi’s and other central Iowadining destinations.

The “Larry” Rottenberg isreferring to is Larry Cleverley, arock-star farmer who left a

high-powered sales career in NewYork City in 1996 to return to thefamily farm in Mingo, where hewas among the first to introducemany central Iowa food lovers tothe likes of nettles, lacinato kaleand Savoyed-leaf spinach.

But, as Rottenberg suggests,other growers of specialtyingredients are emerging on thescene to supply fresh-and-localflavors diners crave.

“It helps that more and moreyoung people are going intofarming,” says Rottenberg, whooffers Jordan Clausen’s Grade A Suman Hoque, owner of HoQ restaurant, in the East Village.

REGISTER FILE PHOTO



Gardens as an example. Clausen,former manager of GatewayMarket’s produce department,recently turned to farming andcurrently supplies garlic, greens,potatoes, kale, onions and greenbeans to local restaurants such asCentro and The Cheese Shop ofDes Moines.

Other young growers includeSally and Luke Gran and Chrisand Kim Corbin, 20somethingpartners of TableTop Farm, whichin 2013 entered its third growingseason. They farm more than40 different crops on 16 acres,supplying to HoQ, Alba, FreshCafe and Market, and other arearestaurants.

Young growers aren’t limitedto those who farm acres andacreages; urban farmer LeonJohnson supplies herbs from hisabundant Beaverdale garden toBaru 66, where he also works asa server.

Until recently, however, it’s beenhard for diners to keep track ofwhich restaurateurs are trulybringing fresh, local food to theirmenus. Fortunately, social mediamakes it easy for the growers toupdate food lovers on what’s inseason and which restaurants areserving their produce.

FRESH IDEAS

Chain restaurants draw crowdsoften because of their predict-ability — night after night, theycan be counted on to plate safecrowd-pleasers, with Alfredosauce here, Cajun seasoningsthere, and mozzarella sticks,spinach-artichoke dip and Buffalowings everywhere.

One way some of our localrestaurants have thrived is to runthe other way, changing up themenu by the season, if not by theweek or even the day, accordingto what produce is looking

freshest at the market. Better yet,our top chefs bring the goods tothe table in ways that are any-thing but predictable.

While prickly nettles might makesome cooks scratch their heads,Andrew Meek whirs them withspring garlic into a vibrant greensoup at Gramercy Tap. Sure,some chefs might look at rhubarband see dessert, but Alba’schef/owner Jason Simon bringspie plant to the savory plate, withpressed lamb collar with chard,English peas, nettles and rhubarbvinaigrette.

Remember when lentils weremostly dedicated to the souppot? Suman Hoque of HoQrestaurant brings them to thetable in a dish of grass-fed lambwith organic beluga lentil andpotato ragout, sauteed greensand homemade yogurt sauce.

And really — how many timeshave you seen a sliced radishindifferently tossed into a greensalad? Instead, Derek Eidson atCentro brings a dish of SunsteadFarms radishes with baby fenneland leeks to the table.

While the aforementioned dishesmight not be available when youvisit, listen to your server andkeep an eye on the features sheetfor equally inventive plates.

FRESH EXPERIENCES

Over the years, dining hasemerged as a major form ofentertainment. As such,restaurateurs often offer specialevents to switch up the mix,making a night in their venue asthrilling as a performance at theCivic Center.

David Baruthio often showcasesthe talents and products of localchefs and food purveyors at hiscontemporary French restaurant,Baru 66. For example, he’s

collaborated with JenniferStrauss (chef/owner of CarefreePatisserie) for an all-dessert menuand Jimmy Zheng (chef/owner ofWasabi Chi) for an East-meets-West menu. The restaurant hasalso produced special eveningsfeaturing spices from AllspiceCulinarium and La Quercia, thecured meats producer in Norwalk.

One-off dinner events are alsopopular at downtown’s Proof.There, these meals have includeda dinner devoted to wild game,a recreation of the food servedin the film “Big Night” and anevening with food paired

exclusively with cocktails. A mealfeaturing tapas from the Basqueregion is slated for early summer.

HoQ restaurant plans to partnerwith the local Buy Fresh Buy Localchapter and the Iowa Food Co-opfor monthly prix-fixe menus oneSunday evening of each month.Owner Hoque views theseinformal, educational dinners asway for area farmers to connectwith area diners over a meal.

Head to restaurant websites tostay up to date on upcomingspecial events throughout theyear.

WANT FRESH? FOLLOW THE FARMERSOne of the best ways to find outwhere to dine on fresh, locallygrown and produced food is tofollow the farmers and producerson Facebook and Twitter. There,they’ll often tell you exactly whenparticular venues are starringtheir wares. A few to follow:

» Cleverley Farms: Find thisgrower of stunning heirloom andhard-to-find veggies on Facebook(Cleverley Farms) and Twitter:@dirtfarmerlarry.

» Grade A Gardens: JasonClauson, who grows wheatgrass,gourmet garlic and other special-ty produce, is on Facebook(Grade A Gardens).

» Leon Johnson: This urbanfarmer and grower of beautifulherbs is on Twitter: @leobejo.

» Picket Fence Creamery:Look for this producer of icecream, cheese products, milk andcream on Facebook (Picket FenceCreamery).

» TableTop Farm: This growerof more than 40 crops is onFacebook (TableTop Farm).

Also go towww.drakebuyfreshbuylocal.org for a list oflocal restaurants committed tobuying from local farmers andfood producers.

The CleverleyFarms standat theDowntownFarmersMarket.REGISTER FILE

PHOTO

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When you cover the dining scenehere, the question inevitably comesup: “What’s the best restaurant inDes Moines?”

It never fails to stump me. After all,the best restaurant is the one that’sbest for what you crave (or need)at a given moment. When you’redriving home from downtownwith just a few seconds to getsomething satisfying on the tablebefore everyone in your homegoes their separate ways, Ted’sConey Island’s drive-thru bestsmost other spots.

Another night, when you’relooking to finesse out-of-townclients downtown, count on 801Chophouse to offer the sophisti-cation you require.

Dozens of restaurants hit sweetspots all along the casual-to-upscale spectrum. Indeed, thereare plenty of “bests” to explore inDes Moines. Here’s a list to startthe conversation:

BEST FOR FINESSINGCLIENTS DOWNTOWN

» 801CHOPHOUSE: Though it’sa splurge, the upscale ambiance,polished service and top-notchmeat make it one of the most

reliable choices when entertainingclients. 801Grand Ave.;515-288-6000, www.801chophouse.com

BEST FAMILY DINING

» ZOMBIE BURGER + DRINKLAB: Kids love the burgers, hotdogs and goofy zombie theme.Mom and Dad like all that, plus theadult milkshakes. 300 E. GrandAve.; 515-244-9292, www.zombieburgerdm.com

» TED’S CONEY ISLAND:Falafel, hummus wraps, gyros,coneys and burgers make this agreat choice when you’ve got afamily of diverse eaters — from

vegetarians to meat-lovers. 3020Ingersoll Ave.; 515-243-8947

» GUSTO PIZZA CO: Kids canget their cheese pizzas, whileparents enjoy something withmore adventuresome toppings,like red-pepper pesto and goatcheese. 1905 Ingersoll Ave.;515-244-8786, www.gutsopizzaco.com

»MIMEXICO: Find big, family-friendly tables, a colorful atmos-phere and kid-friendly combos,plus some of the best margaritas intown for the adults. 11407 ForestAve., Clive; 515-222-6933,www.mimexicoclive.com

Local foodfor your every moodWHETHER YOUWANT ROMANTIC OR GREASY,HERE ARE 61 RESTAURANTS TO TRY IN CENTRAL IOWA

ByWini MoranvilleSpecial to the Register

Use the Register’s LifeInAction appto watch food writer WiniMoranville explain the state ofdining in central Iowa right now.

The Raygun bashed burger at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab in Des Moines comes with fried jalapenos,caramelized onion, bacon, guacamole and chipotle mayo, all topped with Monterey Jack cheese.REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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BEST PATIO DINING

»WOODY’S SMOKE SHACK:Find great ribs and admirablysmoky-and-moist pulled pork.Enjoy it all on one of the city’s bestpatios. 2511 Cottage Grove Ave.;515-277-0005, www.woodyssmokeshack.com

» DOS RIOS: Settle into the chic,hacienda-esque furnishings andsavor creative margaritas, cosmo-politan Latin cuisine and views ofCourt Avenue’s 19th-centurystreetscape. 316 Court Ave.;515-282-2995, www.dosriosrestaurant.com

» CENTRO: In summer, pile ontothe Euro-style patio for heapingplates of pasta, generously sizedentrees and New York-style pizza.1003 Locust St.; 515-248-1780,www.centrodesmoines.comWhen dining on the Euro-style patio at Centro, choose from favorites like the pizza Napoletana,

above, heaping plates of pasta and generously sized entrees. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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» TALLY’S: Rise above it all! This rooftop patiooffers a gracious spot to take in pastoral viewsof Beaverdale treetops. 2712 Beaver Ave.;515-279-2067, www.tallysbeaverdale.com

»WELLMAN’S PUB & ROOFTOP:Thoughtful landscaping and casual bar-grillfood make this rooftop patio worth a spot inyour alfresco dining rotation. 597 Market St.,West Des Moines; 515-222-1100, www.wellmanspub.com

BEST FOR A LIGHT,BEFORE-THE-SHOW BITE

»MIYABI 9: The sparklingly fresh sushi willmake you feel wonderfully indulged, withoutweighing you down before the performance.512 E. Grand Ave.; 515-288-8885, www.miyabi9.com

»WASABI TAO: Here’s another fabulous spotfor sushi, but also some terrific Chinese-fusioncuisine (try the Grand Marnier shrimp, forinstance). 400 Walnut St.; 515-777-3636,search for Wasabi Tao on Facebook

» RAW BAR AT SPLASH:Make a light-yet-stylish meal from this venue’s appetizers,cheese, charcuterie, salads, oysters and crablegs, then walk less than a block to the CivicCenter. 303 Locust St.; 515-244-5686,www.splash-seafood.com

BEST LOUNGESWHEN YOU’REALL DRESSED UP

» CREME CUPCAKE: Sip exquisite cocktails,thoughtfully paired with homemade desserts, atthis stylish, off-Ingersoll venue. 543 28th St.;515-288-1050, www.cremecupcake.com

» CODA LOUNGE AT THE RENAISSANCESAVERY HOTEL: Settle into the plush seatingat this dashingly contemporary, boldly coloredspot. P.S.: The kitchen stays open untilmidnight. 401 Locust St.; 515-244-2151, searchfor Coda lounge on Facebook

BEST FOR A HOT DATE

» LUCCA: A sleek East-Village atmosphere,well-dressed clientele and the Tuscan-inspiredfood will all flatter the occasion. 420 E. LocustSt.; 515-243-1115, www.luccarestaurant.net

» CAFE DI SCALA:When you’re in seductionmode, take your date to Des Moines’s sexiestrestaurant, where brazenly romantic furnishings

Pastry chef Jeffrey Sills fills the display case with confections at Creme Cupcake in DesMoines, a great spot to go when you’re all dressed up. REGISTER FILE PHOTO



takes on burgers. 524 E. Sixth St.;515-244-0261, www.albadsm.com

» HOQ: The farm-to-table restaurant featuresgrass-fed beef and lamb, pasture-raised chickenand duck and an abundance of locally grownproduce presented in globally inspired ways.303 E. Fifth St.; 515-244-1213, www.hoqtable.com

» PROOF: Enjoy Chef Sean Wilson’s progres-sive Midwestern cuisine and hand-craftedcocktails with views of the Des Moines skylinesparkling brilliantly into the night. 1301 LocustSt.; 515-244-0655, www.proofrestaurant.com

BEST FOR ANY-NIGHTCASUAL DINING

»MANDARIN GRILL: Those who favorwell-crafted, sane-portioned food over all-you-can-eat buffets will appreciate the freshlysizzled-up Chinese and Korean dishes, as wellas the artful sushi. 1250 128th St., Clive;515-327-5988, www.mandaringrillandsushibar.com

» ROYALMILE: Find hearty, honest pub foodand a warm sense of well-being at this exceed-ingly true-to-England spot. 210 Fourth St.;515-280-3771, www.royalmilebar.com

» TROSTEL’S DISH:With choices like beefand Boursin sliders, cracker-crust pizzas andduck quesadilla, small plates can add up tobig-time satisfaction here. 12851 UniversityAve., Clive; 515-221-3474, www.dishtrostels.com

» FLYINGMANGO: Expect “barbecue-plus”— not only top-notch brisket, ribs, chicken andpork, but good Southern specialties, all in ahandsome, full-service restaurant. 4345Hickman Road; 515-255-4111, www.flyingmango.com

» BISTROMONTAGE: Sure, you can splurgeon fine dining here, but you’ll also find moder-ately priced fare, from crepes to a bistro burgerwith truffle mayo. 2724 Ingersoll Ave.;515-557-1924, www.bistromontage.com

BEST FOR NO CORKAGE FEES

» CAFE FUZION: This one is always a goodbet to head to with a group of friends —especially those who enjoy Southeast Asianfood and don’t mind a casual, make-doatmosphere. 1240 E. 14th St.; 515-262-8488

(candelabras, intimate marble-top tables), willhelp do the trick. 644 18th St.; 515-244-1353,www.cafediscala.com

BEST FOR PLEASING EVERYONE

» LATIN KING: Steaks and red-sauced pastaplease lovers of Italian-American food, whileshrimp Angelo and chicken spiedini pleasethose looking for something more refined.2200 Hubbell Ave.; 515-266-4466, www.tursislatinking.com

» SAM&GABE’S: Score some handcraftedtakes on Italian-American favorites, but alsolook for sophisticated duck and seafood disheson the specials list. 8631 Hickman Road,Urbandale; 515-271-9200, www.samandgabes.com

» CHRISTOPHER’S:Whether you want spa-ghetti and meatballs or something more up-to-date, like olive chicken, this classic Beaverdalevenue gets it right. Enjoy great pizza in thelounge, too. 2816 Beaver Ave.; 515-274-3694,www.chrisophersdsm.com

Best for a Trip Back in Time

» CHUCK’S: Enjoy some of our city’s bestthin-crust pizza as well as Italian-American farein an atmosphere that combines old-schoolcharm with contemporary colors. 3610 SixthAve.; 515-244-4104, www.chucksdesmoines.com

» GINO’S: Find the quintessential mid-century

steakhouse, complete with aqua swivel chairs inthe lounge. Go here for steaks, fried chickenand zesty red-sauced specialties. 2809 SixthAve; 515-282-4029

» JESSE’S EMBERS: Captain’s chairs, acrowded bar, steaks sizzling on the open pit —yes, all the hallmarks of a 1960s steak house arehere, including a gregarious owner working theroom. 3301 Ingersoll Ave.; 515-255-6011,www.theoriginaljessesembers.com

» TROSTEL’S GREENBRIAR: Revel to an1980s kind of elegance, with white tableclothsand dark-wood furnishings. Though known forsteaks and prime rib, Chef Troy Trostel alsonudges diners in contemporary directions(roasted citrus green tea chicken, anyone?).5810 Merle Hay Road, Johnston; 515-253-0124,www.greenbriartrostels.com

BEST CHEF-DRIVEN, INVENTIVE,CONTEMPORARY CUISINE

» BARU 66: French-born chef/owner DavidBaruthio ranks as the only current chef in townto receive two five-star reviews from The DesMoines Register. Find imaginative multi-ingredient cuisine, prepared with painstakinglypurveyed ingredients. 6587 University Ave.,Windsor Heights; 515-277-6627, www.baru66.com

» ALBA: Jason Simon’s vegetarian cooking isunrivaled, and even his meat-centered dishessparkle with colorful, precise uses of produce.Look for fun casual food, too, including fresh

Blood orange upside-downcake with blood orangemarmalade and whippedcreme fraiche from Alba, arestaurant in the EastVillage best known for itschef-driven, inventivecuisine by Jason Simon.REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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» DJANGO: This downtown hotspot gets high marks for taking theintimidation factor out of Frenchdining. Of course, waiving thecorkage fee certainly helpseveryone feel right at home. 21010th St.; 515-288-0268,www.djangodesmoines.com

» SPLASH: In both the restaurantand the raw bar, you can order jet-fresh seafood and skip the corkagefee. 303 Locust St.; 515-244-5686,www.splash-seafood.com

BEST SEE-AND-BE-SEENRESTAURANTS

» STAR BAR: Enjoy polished barfood and a crowd that’s moreabout martinis than Jagerbombs.2811 Ingersoll Ave.; 515-244-0790,search for Star Bar on Facebook

» AMERICANA: Look for filling

updates on American bar-grill foodat this always-buzzing two-storyrestaurant, where the huge store-front windows look out over therevitalized Western Gatewaycityscape. 1312 Locust St.;515-243-1397, www.americanadsm.com

» LOUIE’S WINE DIVE: “Dive”is a playful misnomer — whilethe vibe is casual, the food isthoughtful, with fun flatbreadsand bruschetta and hearty entrees,such as four-pork gnocchi andlobster shrimp-and-mac. 4040University Ave.; 515-777-3416,www.louieswinedive.com

» GRAMERCY TAP: Keep an eyeon this party-size restaurant:Well-known chef Andrew Meekhas recently revitalized the kitchen,and a Walnut Street patio isplanned. Enjoy a late-night menu

until midnight. 400 Walnut St.;515-288-9606, www.gramercytap.com

» HESSEN HAUS: I always tendto make friends at this rollickingbeer hall — the big, long,

“join-the-party” tables help. 101Fourth St.; 515-288-2520,www.hessenhaus.com

BEST LATE-NIGHTDINING

» FONG’S: If it’s party central you

The Flying Mango’s Memphis-style ribs, with they serve alongwith other smoked meats and Southern sides. REGISTER FILE PHOTO



seek, head to this quirky spot,where Court Avenue revelerssatisfy late-night munchies withChina-meets-Italy takes on pizza.223 Fourth St.; 515-323-3333,www.fongspizza.com

» NOAH’S ARK: If it’s peace andquiet you seek, settle into a cozybooth for pizza or pasta and achance to reconnect with yourpartner at the end of a long day.2400 Ingersoll Ave.; 515-288-2246, www.noahsarkdesmoines.com

BEST PLACE TO EATWITH AN EYE ON THEGAME

The JETHRO’S family of restau-rants manage to pull off a casual,sports-bar-like groove while keep-ing the food standards high. Therestaurants specialize in boldlyflavored smoked meats (plussteaks in Altoona and at the Drakelocation and Cajun/Creole crea-tions at the West Des Moinesoutpost). Also, don’t miss thewings and hand-battered,white-cheddar-filled fried cheese.www.jethrosdesmoines.com

» JETHRO’S BARBECUE: 3100Forest Ave.; 515-279-3300

» JETHRO’S JAMBALAYA:9350 University Ave., West DesMoines; 515-987-8686

» JETHRO AND JAKE’SSMOKEHOUSE STEAKS: 2601Adventureland Drive, Altoona;515-957-9727

» JETHRO’S BBQ N’ LAKE-HOUSE: 1425 S.W. VintageParkway, Ankeny; 515-289-4444

BEST PLACES TO LUNCHWITH THE LADIES

» THE ART CENTER RESTAU-RANT: Enjoy thoughtful salads,soups, sandwiches and pasta,many of which feature grains,legumes and veggies in up-to-dateways. 4700 Grand Ave.;515-271-0332, www.desmoinesart

center.org

» GROUNDS FOR CELEBRA-TION: Enjoy a limited butthoughtful selection of quiche,salads, sandwiches and pasta,generally plated with lovelyfresh-fruit flourishes. Threelocations: 6601 University Ave.,Windsor Heights, 515-271-5022;2709 Beaver Ave., 515-255-4863;and 50th and Mills Civic Parkway,West Des Moines; 515-279-6812;www.groundsforcelebration.com

» LUNA BISTRO: Thoughtfulingredients — such as pork cheeksand duck confit — offer inspireddetours in the salads, sandwichesand pastas. 621 Des Moines St.;515-288-9849, www.lunabistro.com

» WINE EXPERIENCE ATJORDAN CREEK: Toast yourlatest purchase with one of theexpertly chosen wines here; then,enjoy handsomely plated lunch-time fare. Located in the Younkersstore at 101 Jordan Creek Parkway,West Des Moines; 515-457-8577,www.wineexperiencejc.com

BEST PLACE TO GETYOUR VEGETABLES

» A DONG: You can always counton Vietnamese kitchens to bringwindfalls of fresh veggies inwhatever they serve. At A Dong,especially keep an eye out forYu-Choy, a pleasingly bitter,nutrient-packed leafy green. 1511High St.; 515-284-5632

» FAWN’S ASIAN CUISINE TheLaos-born owner serves greatChinese and Southeast Asian food,often with an abundance of freshvegetables. 1107 E. University Ave;515-266-0664

» NOODLE ZOO: These con-temporary, colorful spots areknown for loading up veggies intheir noodle bowls, salads andsandwiches 601 E. Locust St.;515-282-6281 and 2785 N.Ankeny Blvd., Ankeny;

515-965-2099, www.noodlezoo.com

BEST PLACE FOR ASANDWICH

»MANHATTAN DELI: A reliablechoice for one-of-a-kind deli-stylesandwiches and terrific homemadesoups. Try the chicken noodlewhen you’re under the weather.3705 Ingersoll Ave., 515-274-1208, www.hagarsmanhattandeli.com

» PHO 888: A super-casual spotto score irresistible VietnameseBanh Mi (those submarine-stylesandwiches). 1521 Second Ave.;515-288-1595, www.pho888.com

» SOUTH UNION BREADCAFE: Serving he-man-sizedsandwiches on pleasantly tuggyhomemade bread, this restaurantremains one of the most belovedvenues in Chef George Formaro’sempire. 1007 Locust St.;515-248-1782, www.southunionbreadcafe.com

» BIG CITY BURGERS:Madewith hormone- and antibiotic-freebeef, the signature burgers comewith an “anything goes” variety oftoppings — from fried prosciuttoor goat cheese, to chick peas,edamame or a fried egg. 400

Locust St., Suite 195;515-537-8433, www.bigcityburgersandgreens.com

» TACOSMARIANAS:Whilethey’re not exactly sandwiches, thehandheld tacos at this casual,mucho-cute spot are beautifullyfresh and flavor-charged. 120013th St.; 515-288-1499

BEST PLACE TO TRYSOMETHING NEW

» MI PATRIA: Get a taste ofEcuador here. Newbies shouldstart with anything that has theluscious hornados (roasted pork)and also try the Tortilla de Yucca.1410 22nd St., West Des Moines;515-222-2755

» COOL BASIL: Break your padThai habit! Order the herbal crispycatfish or sweet basil special fromthe menu’s chef’s specialties page.8801 University Ave., No. 22, Clive;515-225-8111, www.coolbasiliowa.com

»WASABI CHI: Even hardcoresushi traditionalists should try thecreative, contemporary rolls here,such as the spicy girl roll, with itsluscious play of crisp calamari andslithery mango and avocado. 5418Douglas Ave.; 515-528-8246,www.wasabichicuisine.com

Those up to an eating challenge can try to tackle the 5-poundAdam Emmenecker sandwich, which is available at all four of thelocal chain’s restaurants. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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3 chefs tell us where they eat(Other than their own dining establishment) — Erin Randolph

Gramercy Tap head chef AndrewMeek.MICHAEL WATSON/SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER

The chef: Andrew MeekHis restaurant: The Gramercy Tap,400 Walnut St., 288-9606

1. Wasabi Tao (400 Walnut St.777-3636) andWasabi Chi (5418Douglas Ave.; 528-8208)

Why: “This is the best sushi in thestate.”

2. Cafe di Scala, 644 18th St.;244-1353

Why: “The best for homemade pastaand romantic atmosphere.”

3. Mr. Bibbs, 2705 Sixth Ave.;243-0929

Why: “Best pork tenderloin and onionrings in Des Moines.”

4. Smokey D’s, 5505 N.W. Second St.;243-2747

Why: “My favorite barbecue outsideof my backyard.”

5. Gusto Pizza, 1905 Ingersoll Ave.;244-8786

Why: “The most unique combinationswith great local ingredients.”



The chef: Anthony LemmoHis restaurants: Owner/chef of Cafe di Scala, Gusto Pizza Co.,Host Catering and Hotshots

1. Noah‘s Ark Pizza, 2400 Ingersoll Ave.; 288-2250

Why: “A creamy Italian salad and a stiff cocktail at the sunken baris an experience that is both priceless and timeless. My GrandpaFrank helped his brother, Noah, open this landmark nearly 70years ago. It’s indisputable that they know a thing or two aboutrunning a family business and pizza.”

2. El Salvador del Mundo, 2901 Sixth Ave.; 244-5224

Why: “A favorite Saturday or Sunday retreat for me to travel to.There are always great aromas, soccer games and Latino familiesfilling this special place. Their pupusas and sweet corn tamalesalways pull me back sooner than later.”

3. A Dong, 1511High St.; 284-5632

Why: “Admittedly, I always go for the same half dozen or so menuitems, as any one of themmakes me feel wonderful. I keep a quartof their veggie pho in the freezer in case of an emergency or forwhen I’m craving it on a Monday when they are closed.”

4. Local chef-driven restaurants

Why: “There are too many places to list but it would be aninjustice not to mention the hands that have shaped the scene inmore recent years: Phil Shires, Joe McConville, Jerry Talerico, EnoshKelly, George Formaro, Jay Wang, Nick Ellingsworth, MikeYamamoto, the Logsdon brothers, David Baruthio, Sean Wilson,Jason Simon, Nic Gonwa, Derek Eidson, Jesus Ojeda and AndrewMeek are a few that come to mind.”

Anthony Lemmo, head chef at Cafe Di Scala, Gusto Pizza andHotshots.MICHAEL WATSON/SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER

The chef: Sam AuenHis restaurant: Chef and owner of Tacopocalypse, located insideThe Point (8410 Hickman Road, Clive), and at various central Iowaspecial events.

1. Cafe Di Scala, 644 18th St.; 244-1353

Why: “This is my go-to place for special nights, solo wine dinneroutings and, of course, Beatles brunch. Phil Shires makes some ofthe best specials (and mussels) in town. I’ve never ever a bad mealhere.”

2. Jersey Guys Pizza, 2713 Beaver Ave.; 277-6377

Why: “Solid cheesesteak that brings me back to my days in Philly.”

3. Taqueria Sonora, 800 First St., West Des Moines; 277-7071

Why: “When I’m not making tacos I take a trip to Sonora fortheir wide variety of tacos, including my favorites the baja fish andel pastor.”

4. Vietnam Cafe,Merle Hay Mall, 3800 Merle Hay Road; 252-8713

Why: “Who would think the best banh mi in town would be ina mall food court? Merle Hay Mall is the place for my favoriteVietnamese sandwich, and a great bowl of pho.”

5. Pho 888, 1521 Second Ave.; 288-1595

Why: “Hands-down my favorite pho in town. I go for the No. 21with its deep, rich broth, rare beef, tendon and meatball.”

Tacopacolypse chef Sam Auen.MICHAEL WATSON/SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER

food


in a historical building along Court Avenue.

Newcomer to the block, Joker’s (216 Court Ave.), bringsweekly comedy to downtown as well as Vegas-style VIPbottle service, replete with sparklers and leather couches.Mickey’s Irish Pub (206 Third St.) is an Irish pub thatfeatures a huge outdoor patio with its own fully stockedbar.

For lovers of scotch and hard-to-find beer options, spendtime at the Royal Mile (210 Fourth St.), a British-stylepub with a Gothic-style bar, or venture upstairs to the

DOWNTOWN: COURT AVENUE DISTRICT

The Saddlery Building, once the site of a successful saddle,harness and leather works shop, is now home to theCourt Avenue Brewing Co. (309 Court Ave.), apopular local brewery and restaurant. The self-proclaimed“original sports bar” of Des Moines, Johnny’s Hall ofFame (302 Court Ave.), brings in sports fans to itsrevamped space with a full food menu and drink specials

Night onthe town

A group prepares to take some shots (some wearing vintage helmets) at Fong’s Pizza. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

Hundreds of neighborhood dives, dance clubs, sport-watching spotsand cocktail bars dot the central Iowa nightlife landscape. Here’s alook at a few of the most popular nightlife ‘districts’ around town.By Erin RandolphSpecial to the Register


nightlife



RedMonk, which serves Belgianmonk-brewed beers and alsofeatures a killer jukebox. For asmall, low-key bar with animpressive selection of martinis,imported beers and rotatingartwork from local artists, visitThe Lift (222 Fourth St.).Rotating flavors of late-night slicesmake Fong’s Pizza (223 FourthSt.) an easy mark on thedowntown to-do list. Adding tothe unmatched flair of the eateryare its equally interesting tikidrinks served in unique glasswareand sometimes requiring itsdrinkers to wear vintagemotorcycle helmets.

Vaudeville Mews (212 FourthSt.) is a purveyor of live music,both local and touring bands, andits neighboring alleyway PBR Barserves up an outside option forwarm weather months. For vegan

ZACH BOYDEN-HOLMES/THE REGISTER

SIGNATURE DRINK: COTTONCANDYMARTINIFind it: Urban Grill, 3651 86th St., UrbandaleInfo: 278-1016, www.theurbangrillrestaurant.comCost: $7The Urban Grill is home to a martini menu that seemsintent on tapping into its patrons guilty pleasures,spanning from the chocolate-covered pretzel martinito the red velvet cake martini, but the overwhelmingfavorite is the cotton candy martini. Pinnacle cottoncandy vodka, Kinky Liqueur and a secret fruit juicemixture is vigorously shaken and then poured over agenerous tuft of cotton candy that’s been placed in achilled martini glass. The spun sugar dissolves into acloudy, sippable cocktail with a mild cotton candyflavor.

Use the LifeInAction appto see how an Urban Grillcotton candymartini ismade, and hear the storybehind the drink, in aspecial video.

nightlife



food options, fresh-roasted coffee,beer and free Wi-Fi, Java Joes(214 Fourth St.) is a hip, comfort-able choice located just a shortjaunt from Court Avenue.

Another newcomer to the block,The Venue, offers live entertain-ment in the former People’s Courtlocation (216 Court Ave.), while its

partner and neighboring bar, TheExchange, offers unique drinkspecials.

DOWNTOWN: EASTVILLAGE

Known for its mojitos, Americancontemporary bar and restaurantThe Continental (428 E. Locust

St.) features live jazz and bluesevery Friday and Saturday night.Locust Tap (434 E. Locust St.),on the other hand, is one of theoldest bars in Des Moines — it stillfeatures its original tin ceiling, tilesand plaster walls. But it’s thatdive-bar charm that fills the LocustTap’s seats with young, hipregulars.

Pulling in national and regionalconcerts such as Sleigh Bells,Stone Sour and Girl Talk,Wooly’s (504 E. Locust St.) hasquickly become a premier musicvenue in the state. The Under-ground (500 E. Locust) is abasement bar that often featureslive music. There, give theblack-and-blue special a try:a $5 shot of Jack Daniel’s and16-ounce pint of beer. TheBeechwood (416 E. Walnut St.)is a popular dive all the time, butit really packs in people during themonthly Pressure Drop, asweaty basement, all vintage 45sdance party featuring soul, funk,reggae and rhythm and blues.

Quinton’s (506 E. Grand Ave.) isa popular after-work locale fordowntown professionals, in partdue to the 23-ounce beers thatare $3-$4. Wednesday are trivia

SIGNATURE DRINK: SAKETINI

Find it: Taki, 2677 N.W. 86th St., UrbandaleInfo: 331-3030; www.takisteakhouse.comCost: $7.50It’s believed that a saketini was first served in the 1964world’s fair. In Des Moines, it’s served at Taki, a steakhousewith teppanyaki cooking, as well as an extensive sushimenu. Saketini, like the standard martini, can be made witheither gin or vodka. The saketini at Taki is made with sake,an alcoholic beverage of Japanese origin made fromfermented rice, as well as vodka and cucumber slices.

REGISTER FILE PHOTO



nights, when know-it-alls can windoor prizes. DJ lounge and martinibar Lime Lounge (435 E. GrandAve.) has the feel of a big city club.VIP or bottle service reservationsare accepted. Drinks are always adouble at the Blazing Saddle(416 E. Fifth St.), the city’s oldestgay bar. Stop by Zombie Burger+ Drink Lab (300 E. Grand Ave.)for a spiked milkshake or alate-night zombie-themed burger.

DOWNTOWN:WESTERN GATEWAY

A converted warehouse is nowhome to Exile Brewing Co.(1514 Walnut St.), a microbreweryand restaurant that specializes inGerman-style brews and a menu

filled with American food withinternational flourishes. A rock ’n’roll bar and all that it implies, theGas Lamp (1501 Grand Ave.) is alive music venue with an affinityfor Schlitz, marked with the“Everybody Gets the Schlitz” hourevery day from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

In addition to the famedmake-your-own-grilled cheese barduring brunch at Americana(1312 Locust St.) is a fully stockedbar with a panoramic view of thePappajohn Sculpture Park. Frenchfare rules at Django (210 10th St.),where the bartenders and servershave unparalleled knowledge ofthe impressive selection of wine,beer and liquor. Visit during happyhour when select specialty

A pool player sizes up a shot at the Locust Tap. One of Des Moines’ oldest bars, it still features its original tin ceiling. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS

The Blazing Saddle on a Friday night.

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SIGNATURE DRINK:TANGERMEISTERFind it: High Life Lounge, 200 S.W.Second St.Info: 280-1965;www.thehighlifelounge.comCost: $4Though the “Champagne of Beers”outsells the next most popularbeer two-to-one at the High LifeLounge, it’s the Tangermeisterthat’s truly original. Tang, the fruitdrink that accompanied astronautsto space in the ’60s, is served in acup with an accompanying shotglass filled with Jagermeister, amurky German liqueur. The shotglass is dropped in the cup andeither chugged or allowed to settle,and then chugged. Separately theingredients are barely palatable,but the combined result issurprisingly delicious.



cocktails are just $5.

Centro (1003 Locust St.) bustleswith energy as though it belongsin a much larger city. One of itssignature drinks is the limoncello,which is made in-house.Raccoon River BrewingCompany (200 10th St.) hashandcrafted ales in addition to afull menu and an elevated poolhall with five tables and a view ofthe restaurant below.

INGERSOLL AVENUE

Strong drinks and dog muralscreate the comfortable dive-baratmosphere at The GreenwoodLounge (3707 Ingersoll Ave.),which was once named one ofEsquire’s America’s Best Bars. GTLounge (3013 Ingersoll Ave.) is adimly lit, biker-themed bar with aMatt Woods plays at the Greenwood Lounge on Ingersoll Avenue. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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popular jukebox. Part trendynightspot and part casualafter-work hangout Star Bar(2811 Ingersoll Ave.) has 12 beerson tap and more than 20 inbottles.

In the running for one of DesMoines’ oldest bars, Alpine TapRoom (2720 Ingersoll Ave.) has“Simpson’s” pinball and alegendary old-school jukebox. Alarge game room with a full-sizeshuffleboard table awaits patronsat Zimm’s (3124 Ingersoll Ave.);just as popular is the patio thatoverlooks Ingersoll Avenue.A longtime Ingersoll fixture,Wellman’s Pub (2920 IngersollAve.) has loyalties to the Cubs anda large outdoor patio. CremeCupcake (543 28th St.) is a placeof gourmet cupcakes; however, atnight it transforms into a candle-litdessert lounge with classiccocktails and coffees for theperfect date nightcap.

86TH STREET

Pour your own pints at Tapz Pub,where select tables feature built-inkegs. Even better, the tables canbe reserved, so there’s no need toshow up hours early to watch thebig game on the big screens. ThePoint (8410 Hickman Road, Clive)offers regular live music and afour-season patio; in addition,

Tacopocalpyse serves up some ofthe most creative tacos, burritosand nachos that Des Moines hasto offer.

Sazz (1871 86th St., Clive) is oneof the few places in central Iowawhere one can still procure a $5pitcher of domestic beer duringhappy hour. For a martini, visit

Ducktail Lounge (1809 86thSt., Clive), where the well vodka isAbsolut. Break the ice with yourdate by playing one of the manyboard games available for use nextto the fireplace.Mickey’s (180086th St., Clive) throws one of thelargest tent parties in Iowa everySt. Patrick’s Day, and keeps theenergy alive year-round.

For those willing to venture off the86th Street path, 515 BrewingCompany (7700 University Ave.,Clive) recently opened down thestreet, offering micro-brewedbeers in a modern, stylish taproomwith a multitude of nearby deliverymenus.

WEST GLEN

Drew Carey, David Alan Grier andDane Cook have all graced thestage of the Funny BoneComedy Club (560 S. PrairieView Drive, West Des Moines).Watch the calendar and don’t missout on the next big comedians

visiting this club, which offers botha full menu and a full bar. Get anunparalleled view of West DesMoines while sipping specialtycocktails from the rooftop patio atWellman’s Pub & Rooftop inWest Glen (597 Market St., WestDes Moines).

Tonic (5535 Mills Civic Parkway,West Des Moines) serves morethan 40 single malts, wine andChampagne in an upscaleatmosphere. It also features adownstairs bar with patio andmezzanine with a separate barand patio. Blue Moon DuelingPiano Bar and Restaurant(5485 Mills Civic Parkway, WestDes Moines) features nationaldueling piano acts and giganticdrinks served in fish bowls.Cabaret West Glen (560 S.Prairie View Drive, West DesMoines) has a four-season patio,party rooms and a VIP rewardprogram that offers members cashback just for patronizing the bar.


SIGNATUREDRINK:FARMER JOHN’SMULTI-GRAIN ALE

Find it: Confluence, 1235Thomas Beck RoadInfo: 285-9005;confluencebrewing.comCost: $4.50 per pintThis refreshing, blonde alewas created by a third-gen-eration farm boy, whichmakes it an appropriatemicrobrew to come out ofone of Des Moines’ newestmicrobreweries. The beer islightly flavored with EnglishEast Kent Goldings hops,which were chosen for theirsubtle, earthy qualities. Theresult is a light, easy-drink-ing ale with a clean finish.

Ryan Rost, Bailey Forrest, Dave Ropte and Brandon Criger are theowners of 515 Brewing Company in Clive. REGISTER FILE PHOTO



Tens of thousands of dancing bodies in downtown DesMoines in July.

Thousands of fanatical bacon-lovers on the Iowa StateFairgrounds filling their bellies in February.

A million-plus back on those fairgrounds in August for thebutter cow and things on sticks for the Iowa State Fair.

Oh, and a world-class arts festival, a Midwestern version ofOktoberfest, gay pride events, street parties and much, much more.

Bottom line: The days of “There’s nothing to do in Des Moines” arelong gone. Read on to find dozens of the biggest and best events,music and performance venues, local sports teams and more.

12 months ofgreat events

The Avett Brothers head-line the main stage atthe 80/35 Music Festivalin 2012. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS

entertainment

Use the Register’s LifeI-nAction app to see aquick preview of thenext year of events incentral Iowa.



Winefest

Winefest Des Moines is the annualfestival celebrating the food andwine industry, featuring winetasting and seminars, specialentertainment and nationallyrenowned vintners. Events run June1-8 and include the YP-heavy Sips& the City on June 7. Variouslocations; www.winefestdesmoines.com

Grimes Governor’s Day

Held entirely within the Governor’sDistrict of Grimes, Governor’s Daysinclude concerts, parades, acarnival, car shows and more.Admission is free. June 6-8, 2013;Governor’s District, Grimes;www.governorsdays.com

Capital City Pride

The annual GLBT pride celebration,held the second weekend in June

Break out your calendarsTime to start planning your year of fun in central Iowa. Here’s a good start.

BriannaSalwey,left,DanielleMeyersandKaitlynTimbosamplewineduringWinefest.REGISTER FILE

PHOTO

By Erin RandolphSpecial to the Register

CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

Each May at the Central Iowa Expo in Boone, thousands of hard rock and metal fansline up to hear more than a dozen bands alternate on two main stages, so there’snever a break in the music. Lazerfest, an all-ages festival created by the Lazer 103.3

radio station, is a day in the sun (and sometimes, the mud) filled with headline-worthyrockers.

The 2013 Lazerfest was held May 10 and included Seattle rock band Alice in Chains as well as1990s English rock band Bush, fronted by GavinRossdale, the husband of Gwen Stefani. Previous festivalshave also included the “Godfather of Shock Rock” AliceCooper, nu-metal band Papa Roach, horror metal artistRob Zombie, country-rock-rap artist Kid Rock, alternativerock band Stone Temple Pilots and nu-metal band Korn.

In addition to regular admission ticketing, Lazerfest offersVIP Packages, which include a preferred viewing areawith risers, parking, a steak dinner, five drink tickets andpreferred restroom access, all considered luxuries atall-day outdoor music festivals. The only perk notincluded is backstage access, which is reserved for radiocontest winners of Lazer 103.3.

SUMMER EVENT: Lazerfest

Lazerfest

WHEN: Held each May

WHERE: Central Iowa Expo, inBoone

MORE INFO: Go to www.lazerfest.lazer1033.com


entertainment

The crowd gets into it for Rev Theory during a previous Lazerfest at the Indianola Balloon Grounds in Indianola. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

Slash performs on the Meskwaki Stage atLazerfest in 2012. REGISTER FILE PHOTO



every year, recognizes theimportance of gay culture in theMidwest with a street party,parade, musical performances andcommunity exhibitors. You’ll alsosee the finals of the Pride Idolsinging competition. June 8-9,2013; East Village;www.capitalcitypride.org

Johnston Green Days

This annual celebration was startedin 1996 to focus on Johnston’sagricultural and horticulturaltradition. It’s grown to includeactivities such as a parade, carnival,children’s activities, entertainment,a rib cook-off contest, a talentcontest, classic car show and a 5Krun/walk. June 13-16, 2013;Johnston Public Library;www.johnstonchamber.

typepad.com/johnstongreendays

Des Moines Arts Festival

The Des Moines Arts Festival tracesits beginnings back to 1958. Overthe years the festival has beenrecognized by a number ofassociations and trade magazines,including winning the GrandPinnacale Award in 2010. Thefestival celebrates visual andperforming arts, and includes livemusic and the Interrobang FilmFestival. Find works from localartists as well as internationallyknown talents. June 28-30, 2013;Western Gateway Park;www.desmoinesartsfestival.org

ArtFest Midwest

On the same weekend as the DesMoines Arts Festival, ArtFestMidwest will include more than

220 artists, 40 percent from Iowaand 90 percent from the Midwest.ArtFest considers itself an alter-native show that complements thedowntown event. June 29-30,2013; Iowa State Fairgrounds;www.stookeyshows.com

Yankee Doodle Pops

Maestro Joseph Giunta will leadthe Des Moines Symphony’s 20thannual Yankee Doodle Pops, a freeoutdoor concert that precedes a

Denise Jone of Ankeny waves her American flag at the YankeeDoodle Pops concert in 2012. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

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1. Wu-Tang Clan

Considered by many a music pundit to be oneof the best and most influential rap groups ofall time (MTV named it the fifth best in 2007),Wu-Tang Clan will headline 80/35 on Saturday,July 6, as if it’s still 1993. The East Coasthip-hop group consists of rappers RZA, GZA,Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah,Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa and thelate, great Ol’ Dirty Bastard. Many in the crewalso had successful solo careers. Wu-Tang isreuniting with the promise of a new studioalbum in July, and unlike many reformedgroups touring under their original moniker,the clan will feature all living members of theoriginal group.

2. Free stuff

For those who refuse to purchase tickets, thereare plenty of entertainment options outside thepaid gates. In fact, most of the music takesplace on the two free stages that sit at thesoutheast and southwest ends of the gatedmain stage. Also free is the water, nearlyunheard of at music festivals where food anddrink prices are most of the time convenientlyinflated. In addition, children are free, even inpaid areas of the festival, so the family canattend without going broke.

3. Bands you’ve yet to discover

For six years now the music lovers of DesMoines have had strong and mixed opinions as

the waves of bands are announced for 80/35,with comments on Facebook ranging fromecstatic to enraged. Undoubtedly those whoultimately choose to attend 80/35 will have alist of the bands they plan to see, andundoubtedly, those bands will not be playingback-to-back, which leaves time to catch bandsbetween bands. In previous years, as the stagescame down and everyone was left to commenton the bands they’d seen, it was often thebands that were caught between bands thatcreated the largest impact. Perhaps it was dueto lowered expectations, but it may also just bethat 80/35 is booking up-and-coming bandsthat may not have hit Des Moines’ radar.

SUMMER EVENT: 80/35 Music Festival

The Flaming Lips perform at the 80/35 Music Festival in 2008. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS

80/35 Music Festival

WHEN: July 5-6, 2013

WHERE:Western Gateway Park,downtown Des Moines

MORE INFO:www.80-35.com

Use the LifeInActionapp to watch a videoof 80/35 Music Festivalhighlights fromprevious years, and tolearn more about theevent’s history.


Here are 5 of the many reasons to attend the annual outdoor, two-day concert

entertainment

4. David Byrne and St. Vincent

He is famous for his tenure in the Talking Headsand she is an indie singer/songwriter with astring of successful solo albums. Each issuccessful in his/her own right, and togetherthey sound little like they do apart. David Byrneand St. Vincent’s (aka Annie Clark) collaborativealbum, “Love This Giant,” is carried by a funky,jazzy horn section that’s propelled with drumprogramming by John Congleton. And if youdon’t know the songs they play together, liveshows from these two have been known toinclude work from the Talking Heads andClark’s solo career.

5. It’s all volunteer run and it’s allin your backyard

The 80/35 Music Festival has attracted morethan 30,000 people since its incarnation in2008, not a small feat for a festival that’sentirely planned and executed by volunteers.Each year more than 40 local, regional andnational acts have graced three stages over thecourse of two days, and when it’s over, thosesame volunteers as well as loyal festival-goersreunite to tear down and clean up. Not tomention, an event of this magnitude ispractically unheard of in cities the size of DesMoines, and that’s nothing to ignore.



fireworks display on the lawn ofthe Capitol. July 3, 2013; Iowastate Capitol’s west terrace;www.dmsymphony.org

Ankeny SummerFest

A four-day, family friendly eventfeaturing a softball tournament,parade, talent show and more. July11-14, 2013; Northwest Ash andPrairie Ridge drives;www.ankenysummerfest.org

Italian-AmericanHeritage Festival

Few secrets are as sacred in theItalian-American heritage than aperfected sauce recipe, so it’s fittingthe Italian-American HeritageFestival would include a saucecontest as part of its annual

Caroline Wagner of Nevada views a painting at the Des Moines Arts Festival. REGISTER FILE PHOTO CONTINUED ON PAGE 34



1. Pork chop on a stick

When President Obama made hiselection-time pilgrimage to the Iowa State Fairin an effort to drum up votes, he made surehis food choice appealed to the stomachs ofIowans and fairgoers: the pork chop on astick. Though the fair boasts more than 50types of foods on sticks, with more poppingup every year, the boneless loin chops thatcontinually rotate and roast on a portablerotisserie at the Iowa Pork Producers boothperhaps best represent a fair located in thecountry’s No. 1 pork producing state.

2. Dana Carvey, Kevin Nealon,Dennis Miller

Both Hans and Franz, half of “Wayne’sWorld” and comedy vet Dennis Miller willbring laughs to the Grandstand on Saturday,Aug. 10, at 8 p.m. Dana Carvey is best knownfor playing Garth Alger in “Wayne’s World,” acharacter from Saturday Night Live, where healso perfected exaggerated impressions ofGeorge H.W. Bush and Ross Perot, andpopularized characters like the Church Ladyand Hans, half of the body building duocompleted by Kevin Nealon. Tickets are $38.

3. Toby Keith

Even if you don’t know Toby Keith by name,it’s hard to escape his 19 No. 1 hits and 16top-10 hits. Anyone who’s visited a bar with ajukebox has inevitably heard “I Love This Bar”and “Beer for My Horses.” Keith has soldmore than 40 million records worldwideand was named artists of the decade at the2011 American Country Music Awards. Seehim at the Grandstand on Thursday, Aug. 15,at 8 p.m. Tickets are $49.

SUMMER EVENT: Iowa State FairWe could share 700reasons to head to thestate’s biggest event,but we’ll edit ourselvesdown to these seven.

Toby Keith will play the Iowa State Fair on Aug. 15. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS

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parade, music, fireworks and more.Sept. 13-14, 2013; along Beaverand Urbandale avenues inBeaverdale; www.fallfestival.org

Oktoberfest

The sounds of polka will invadeFourth Street downtown asOktoberfest rolls out a barrel ofGerman beer. The annualcelebration outside the doors ofHessen Haus also includes contests,tented beer gardens and authenticGerman fare. Held late September;south of Court Avenue on FourthStreet; www.oktoberfestdsm.com

World Foodand Music Festival

The festival focuses on culinarytraditions from around the worldand how they tie into Iowa.

festivities. In addition, the two-dayfestival will crown a queen, handout awards and feature plenty oflive performances. July 26-27,2013; Western Gateway Park;www.italianfestivalofiowa.com

National Balloon Classic

Each summer hot air balloon pilotsfrom across the country and globedescend on Indianola to put on anine-day show. Get there early tosee the morning balloon flight, abrilliant display of colors in thesummer sky. July 26-Aug. 3;www.nationalballoonclassic.com

Renaissance Faire

Weekends in September mean thereturn of the Renaissance Faire,

when visitors can browse morethan 50 specialty shops, attend thecoronation of the royal court, cheeron knights in the jousting area ascostumed people recreate theMiddle Ages. Held in September;Sleepy Hollow Sports Park;www.dmrenfaire.com

Illumifest

Hot air balloon rides are available atthis annual event, which alsofeatures a full-service carnival. Heldin September; West Des MoinesCity School Campus;www.illumifest.com

Latino Heritage Festival

Iowa’s Latino Heritage Festivalconsiders itself the largest culturalevent in the state; those who wishto experience the Latin-American

cultures can head to thedowntown bridges for a weekendin September that showcases food,wares and services. Sept. 7-8,2013; downtown bridges;www.latinoheritagefestival.org

Gatsby Gala

A tribute to the immodest 1920sglam era, including dancing theCharleston and foxtrot andsmoking fine cigars. Presentingpartner Templeton Rye whiskey,made famous during Prohibition,will be on-hand. Sept. 13, 2013;Salisbury House; www.salisburyhouse.org

Beaverdale Fall Festival

Celebrate a neighborhood filledwith charming brick houses with afestival filled with vendors, a

Dan Konen of Jost Evolution Co. rides on Jericho during training for the Des Moines Renaissance Faire. The Renaissance Faire returns toSleepy Hollow Sports Park in September. REGISTER FILE PHOTO


entertainment



Samples available for $1 inaddition to full-serving offerings.The festival also includes musicand shopping opportunities. Sept. 20-22; East Village;www.worldfoodfestival.org

Madison County Covered Bridge Festival

A festival to celebrate the historiccovered bridges made famous by“The Bridges of Madison County.”The Covered Bridge Festival alsoincludes antique and craftvendors, music and entertainment,a quilt show, a car show, anantique vehicle parade and guidedbus tours of the covered bridges.Oct. 12-13, 2013; Winterset;www.madisoncounty.com

The Hogback Bridge was a busy spot during the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival in 2011.The festival returns in October. REGISTER FILE PHOTOCONTINUED ON PAGE 37

Ooooohhhhhhh Bacon!!!

There are few foods as popular as bacon.Besides its likeness being printed on allsorts of wares, including lampshades,

wallets and iPhone cases, its biggest fansbelieve it can be added to and will improve justabout any food.

Des Moines has embraced The Blue RibbonBacon Festival, which celebrates all thingsabout the salt-cured meat, with impressivefervor. In each of its six years, the festival hasdoubled in size and its thousands of ticketshave sold in mere minutes. The 8,000 ticketsfor the 2013 festival were snatched up in justover three minutes.

The festival is serious in its pursuit of baconworship. The Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival invitesindustry professionals from around the nationto sit and sample bacon, without knowing thebrand name, and provide ribbons in variouscategories. In addition, these judges tastebacon-inspired dishes prepared by Des Moineschefs and restaurateurs to select the threedishes that best represent each style category.

But Bacon Fest is not just for bacon

connoisseurs. It’s also for the laymen who justhappen to like bacon, with many bacon drinksand dishes available to sample. Previous year’sofferings have included bacon martinis, bacongumbo and chocolate bacon bourbon tarts.The event also includes a few amateur eatingathletes willing to eat mass amounts as part of

the amateur bacon eating competition, duringwhich contestants down three pounds ofcooked bacon in record time.

The festival is preceded earlier in the week witha bacon queen pageant and a pig pardon byGov. Terry Branstad.

WINTER EVENT: Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival

Joe Becker, 37, Angela Becker, 31, Heather Gieseke, 26, and Duane Gieseke, 27, all ofUrbandale, at the sixth annual Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival in Des Moines.

Bacon fan and pro wrestler “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, center, gives a thumbs up with MattRiley, 34, left, and Jeremy Steward, 30, at the Bacon Festival. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS

Blue Ribbon BaconFestival

WHERE: Location TBD. The 2013event was held at the Iowa StateFairgrounds.

WHEN: Held annually in February

INFO:www.blueribbonbaconfestival.com

Use theLifeInActionapp to see thebest photosfrom the lastfew BlueRibbon BaconFestivals.


entertainment



Festival of Treesand Lights

The Festival of Trees and Lights hasprovided more than $6.5 million infinancial aid for special programsand projects that serve the needsof children since its inception.Visitors can survey beautifullydecorated holiday trees. There isalso a children’s area, shopping,food and entertainment. Held inNovember; Veteran’s MemorialCommunity Choice Credit UnionConvention Center; www.blankchildrens.org

CelebrAsian

A long tradition of celebrating theAsian and Asian-Americancommunities and culturescontinues as CelebrAsian takes

over the lawn of the state Capitolcomplex. Each community isorganized as a “village” andshowcases indigenous foods,culture, history, arts and crafts andsports such as table tennis andtakraw. Held in May; Iowa stateCapitol complex, www.iowaasianalliance.com

Tulip Time

April showers bring May tulips.For three days each spring Pella istransformed into a mini version ofHolland, replete with woodenshoes and Dutch costumes. Theannual event also features parades,entertainment and theaterperformances. Held in May; Pella;www.pellatuliptime.com

Jewish Food Festival

You can’t go wrong with tasty

treats and events such as a matzahball eating contest, live music andmore at Temple B’nai Jeshurun,5101Grand Ave. each spring.

Greek Food Fair

Fan of Greek cuisine? Don’t missthis early summer event. Stuffedgrape leaves, spanakopita, gyrosand dancing and more. (The 2013event was June 1-2.)

A performer dancesduring an Indonesiancultural performance atthe CelebrAsian festivallast year. REGISTER FILE PHOTO



THE VARSITY THEATRE

This Drake neighborhood moviehouse gives cinephiles a blast fromthe past. The Varsity has just onemovie at a time on its marquee,and the theater space feels like itwas pulled from a movie itself —deep, comfy seats. Oh, and don’tforget the ticket and concessionprices, which also appear to bepulled from an era long past.

The Varsity shows art-house films,including foreign flicks and docu-mentaries rare to Iowa, as well asshowcasing some of the mostclassic films of all time on the bigscreen — from “Citizen Kane” to“Casablanca.” The Varsity is a DesMoines treasure.

FIND IT: 1207 25th St.;515-277-0404,www.varsitydesmoines.com

FLEUR CINEMA & CAFE

If you’re looking for the place inDes Moines that will show theeventual winners of the Indepen-dent Spirit Awards, the south-sideart-house theater is your spot. Thelobby has an art deco feel to it,and the concession menu featureseverything from cappuccino tobeer and wine.

Independent films, such as 2012’s

“Beasts of the Southern Wild” getearly Iowa play at the Fleur —months before they capturegreater mainstream buzz. So ifthere’s a film showing here youhaven’t heard of, pop in and seeit; you can impress your friendslater when it earns a best screen-play Oscar nomination monthslater.

FIND IT: 4545 Fleur Drive; 515-287-4545, www.fleurcinema.com

Where to go on ‘movie night’REGISTER FILE PHOTO


entertainment



More area theaters:

Century 20 Jordan Creek: 101Jordan Creek Parkway, WestDes Moines; 515-440-6255.Home to perhaps the comfiestseats in town and the bestspread of concessions. (Hotdogs! Nachos! Ice cream!)

Cinemark Movies 12: 1317Buckeye Ave., Ames;800-326-3246, code 1207

Cinemark North Grand 5:2801Grand Ave., Ames;800-326-3246, code 1225. Hometo $2 (or less) tickets forsecond-run movies.

Cobblestone 9: 8501HickmanRoad, Urbandale; 515-276-8468

Copper Creek 9: EastUniversity Avenue and Copper

Creek Drive, Pleasant Hill;515-266-2676

Merle Hay Cinema: 3800Merle Hay Road (inside MerleHay Mall); 515-252-0804. Hometo the largest non-IMAX screenin the state.

Blank SCI IMAX DomeTheater: 401W. Martin LutherKing Jr. Parkway; 515-274-4629.Home to select blockbusters inIMAX as well as regular IMAXeducational films.

Southridge 12: Southeast 14thStreet and Army Post Road;515-331-3456

Springwood 9: 2829 AnkenyBlvd, Ankeny; 515-964-5500

Wynnsong16: Northeast 86thStreet and Interstate Highway35/80, Johnston; 515-331-0500 Fleur Cinema & Cafe has an art deco feel. REGISTER FILE PHOTO



entertainment

7 FLAGS EVENT CENTER

The suburban entertainment venue features24,000 square feet and hosts everything frommixed martial arts and roller derby bouts tobig-name touring acts. Among the musiciansto recently take the stage: Bret Michaels,Macklemore, Goo Goo Dolls and an array ofcountry stars.

FIND IT: 2100 N.W. 100th St., Clive;276-7003; www.7flagseventcenter.com

DG’S TAP HOUSE

If you like craft beers and rock music, DG’s is a

spot worth checking out next time you’re up inAmes. The Main Street bar features well over ahundred types of beer, and live music — somelocal, some touring acts — on the weekends.

FIND IT: 125 Main St., Ames; 515-233-5084;www.dgstaphouse.com

FUNNY BONE

You won’t find live music hear, but you will findlots of laughs at the West Des Moines comedyclub, a regular stop for touring standupcomedians — funny folks from Jim Breuer toPauly Shore to Brian Posehn.

FIND IT: 560 S. Prairie View Drive, West DesMoines; 270-2100; www.funnybonedm.com

GAS LAMP

The Western Gateway bar and venue tookover for the legendary Blues on Grand in 2011.It quickly became a popular spot to catcheverything from blues and funk to rock andpunk, and all genres in between. There’s alsoweekly team trivia (Tuesdays), karaoke andopen jams.

FIND IT: 1501Grand Ave.; 280-3778;www.gaslampdsm.com

The Dropkick Murphys perform at the Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines in 2012. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

VENUES:Where to see liveentertainment in central Iowa



HOUSE OF BRICKS

The House of Bricks has been aroundDes Moines since before the music sceneexperienced its resurgence. It continues to pullin rock, punk, hip-hop and other acts. And arooftop bar space and full menu make it aplace worth visiting even if you’re not in themood for a show.

FIND IT: 525 E. Grand Ave.; 727-4370;www.thehouseofbricks.com

HOYT SHERMAN PLACE

Hoyt Sherman was the first public museum inthe city of Des Moines when it opened in theearly 1900s. Now the theater in the ShermanHill space, with its ornate historical decor,brings in bands, comedians, art exhibits andspeakers able to draw big crowds.

FIND IT: 1501Woodland Ave.; 244-0507;www.hoytsherman.org

JAVA JOE’S/FOURTH STREET THEATER

The Fourth Street coffee shop has long been ahangout for creatives. It is also a spot for eventssuch as Irish jams, jazz shows and more.

FIND IT: 214 Fourth St.; 288-5282;www.javajoescoffeehouse.com

THE MAINTENANCE SHOP

The ISU campus spot, in the basement of theMemorial Union, pulls in an impressive lineupof indie acts. Bands such as SmashingPumpkins, OK Go, Civil Wars and more havegraced the stage here before hitting the bigtime. When school is in session, check theschedule for affordable concerts worth thedrive north.

FIND IT: 2229 Lincoln Way, Ames;515-294-8349; www.m-shop.com

PRAIRIE MEADOWSRACETRACK AND CASINO

The Altoona casino is also a spot for concertsfeaturing rock heavyweights such as ZZ Top,REO Speedwagon, Toto and more.

FIND IT: 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona;967-1200; www.prairiemeadows.com

Indie rockers Minus the Bear perform at Wooly’s in the East Village. REGISTER FILE PHOTO



entertainment

RITUAL CAFE

The Western Gateway coffee shop, with itsprogressive vibe and vegan menu, is also hometo acoustic acts, drum circles and communitymusic events.

FIND IT: 1301 Locust St.; 288-4872;www.ritualcafedsmiowa.com

SIMON ESTES RIVERFRONTAMPHITHEATER

The outdoor amphitheater along the DesMoines River is the home of the summerNitefall on the River series, which has broughtin acts like Grace Potter and the Nocturnals,Umphrey’s McGee and a 2013 lineup thatfeatures Brandi Carlile, Edward Sharpe and theMagnetic Zeros and more. One of the bestspots in town for an outdoor summer show.

FIND IT: Robert Ray Drive and Locust Street

VAL AIR BALLROOM

Some 70 years ago, the Val Air was the spot incentral Iowa for big bands, jazz shows and sockhops. It’s survived the test of time, but it’s nowhome to big-name acts like Snoop Dogg,Marilyn Manson, the Insane Clown Posse andTed Nugent. A far cry from sock hops, indeed.

FIND IT: 301 Ashworth Road, West DesMoines; 223-6152; www.valairballroom.com

VAUDEVILLE MEWS

The spot in central Iowa to discover new music.Every night of the week, the Mews on FourthStreet brings in up-and-coming acts, the typesof bands you might find on a free stage, thenlater maybe the main stage of the 80/35 MusicFestival down the road.

FIND IT: 212 Fourth St.; 243-3270;www.vaudevillemews.com

WELLS FARGO ARENA

The opening of Wells Fargo Arena several yearsago signaled a sea change for Des Moines’music scene. Now giant acts, some of thebiggest in the world, had a place to play incentral Iowa — the Jimmy Buffetts and KenneyChesneys and Taylor Swifts and Justin Biebersand Paul McCartneys and Bruce Springsteensof the world. The Well is also home to the IowaBarnstormers, Iowa Energy and soon, thereturn of AHL hockey to Iowa in the form ofthe Iowa Wild.

FIND IT: 730 Third St.; 564-8000;www.iowaeventscenter.com

WOOLY’S

In Des Moines’ East Village sits the rock club,Wooly’s, a mid-sized venue that pulls in some

of the giants of the indie music world: Girl Talk,Sleigh Bells and more. In a short period, SamSummer’s club has become a powerhouse inthe local music booking scene.

FIND IT: 504 E. Locust St.; 244-0550;www.woolysdm.com

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals perform outside at the Simon Estes Amphitheater in DesMoines. REGISTER FILE PHOTO



4. State Fair Parade

Fair season begins with the annual Iowa StateFair Parade. An estimated 200 floats, animals,vehicles, novelty and performing groups meetat the state Capitol complex and travel weston Grand Avenue to 13th Street. See it live onWednesday, Aug. 7, at 6:15 p.m. or catch arerun that evening on KDSM Fox-17.

5. Demolition derbyand figure eight racing

Appease that small, perhaps hidden part ofyour psyche that appreciates it when cars aredestroyed and their drivers put in potentiallydangerous situations purely for entertainmentpurposes. On Saturday, Aug. 17, at 11:30 a.m.the demolition derby and figure eight racingwill take over the Grandstand, rammingvehicles into each other and creatingnear-misses at the center of a track shaped likea figure eight. Admission is $15 for adults, $5children 6-11 and free for ages 5 and under.

6. Butter cow

An Iowa State Fair tradition since 1911, thebutter cow starts with a wood, metal, wireand steel mesh frame. Add 600 pounds of lowmoisture, pure cream Iowa butter and a lot oftime by butter sculptor Sarah Pratt and you’vegot a 51⁄2–foot-high and 8-foot-long dairy cow.In addition to the butter cow, a secret,companion sculpture is also displayed; inrecent years the companion sculpture has paidhomage to Elvis Presley, Tiger Woods andHarry Potter.

7. Iowa Craft Beer Tent

Though beer is served at various locationsthroughout the fairgrounds, some of whichhave become institutions in their own right, anewcomer to the fair is gaining ground. In2012 the Iowa Craft Beer Tent debuted at thefair, providing more than 30 beers from 13different Iowa breweries and an additionalthree beers from regional breweries. Stop byfor a 16-ounce brew, or purchase a samplerpack, which includes three 5-ounce beers ofyour choice. Visit www.iowacraftbeertent.comfor information on this year’s beers.

Callie Van Arkel, 2, of Altoona, watches the 2012 IowaState Fair Parade. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

Iowa State Fair

WHEN: Aug. 8-18, 2013(and each August)

WHERE: Iowa StateFairgrounds

COST: $11 for ages 12+,$5 for kids 6-11; free forchildren 5 and under

MORE INFO: Go towww.iowastatefair.org.



IOWA CUBS

Who they are: The triple-Aaffiliate of the Chicago Cubs.

The season: Same as MajorLeague Baseball — spring to fall.

Where they play: At thebeautiful Principal Park indowntown Des Moines,considered one of the top minorleague parks in America. 1 LineDrive; 515-243-6111,www.iowacubs.com.

Why you’re a fan:Whetheryou root for the Chicago Cubs ornot, a day at the ballpark is a joyof summer. Game tickets areaffordable for I-Cubs games, andfun promotions and giveawaysentice families and fans alike. And

of course, there’s always thechance to see up-and-comingfuture Chicago Cubs talent, orrehabbing major league stars onthe mend.

IOWA BARNSTORMERS

Who they are: A member of theArena Football League, thefast-paced, high-scoring profootball league.

The season: Spring and summer.Basically, during the offseason ofthe NFL.

Where they play:Wells FargoArena, 730 Third St.; 515-633-2255, www.theiowabarnstormers.com

Why you’re a fan: Because

Cubbie Bear tosses a giant baseball to a fan before an I-Cubs game in Des Moines. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

Sports for all seasons

An Iowa Barnstormers player scores a touchdown. REGISTER FILE

PHOTO



entertainment

football is king in America. Andthe team features several local andcollege players making an impactin the AFL. This is not the NFL,with its balanced rushing andpassing games. The Barnstormersand the rest of the AFL featurehigh-scoring passing attacks.

DES MOINESBUCCANEERS

Who they are: A member of theUnited States Hockey League, atop junior hockey organization inthe United States.

The season: October throughApril

Where they play: Buccaneer

Arena, 7201 Hickman Road,Urbandale; 515-278-2827,www.bucshockey.com.

Why you’re a fan: Live hockeyis a treat to watch no matter thelevel of competition, and thesetalented under-20 players will oneday advance to other leagues,some all the way to the NHL. Bucsgames feature raucous crowdswho show up for fun hockey,cheap beers ($1 Buc Beer Nights,anyone?) and affordable gametickets.

IOWA ENERGY

Who they are:Members of theNBA Development League (the

An on-ice scuffle between Des Moines Buccaneers and Sioux Falls Stampede players. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS

Fans count down the seconds on the scoreboard clock before theIowa Energy’s home opener in December 2012.



“D-League”), the league justbelow the NBA.

The season: Late fall to spring

Where they play: Wells FargoArena; 515-564-8550, www.nba.com/dleague/iowa

Why you’re a fan: Energygames are kid- and family-friendly,with a fun atmosphere thatfeatures giveaways, halftimeentertainment and more. And onthe court, these are some of thebest basketball athletes in theworld — featuring former NBAplayers.

IOWA WILD

Who they are: The newlyannounced AHL team in DesMoines, a minor-league affiliate ofthe Minnesota Wild

The season: Fall through spring

Where they play: Wells FargoArena

Why you’re a fan: Because youmight already be a fan of theMinnesota Wild. Or perhaps youmiss the intense elite hockeyaction that once filled Wells FargoArena when AHL teams the IowaStars or Iowa Chops played here.

ROLLER DERBY

Central Iowa found itself ahead ofthe curve in recent years when itcame to the now-ubiquiious rollerderby trend. Des Moines is hometo the Des Moines Derby Damesand the Mid Iowa Rollers, as wellas affiliate teams and even a men’steam (named Your Mom). Go towww.dmderbydames.com andwww.midiowarollers.com.

MIDWEST CAGE

CHAMPIONSHIP

MCC has ruled the mixed martialarts game in central Iowa in recentyears, delivering popular events

and featuring some of the betterregional MMA fighters. Find eventand fighter info at www.midwestcagechampionship.com.

Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold, left, and Tom Hockensmith, chair of the Polk County Board of Supervisors, hold up an Iowa Wildjersey at a press conference in April, announcing that the Minnesota Wild would bring its farm team to Des Moines. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

Jaume Plensa’s two-story “Nomade” became an instant landmark when the John and Mary Pappa-john Sculpture Park opened in 2009. Self-guided cellphone tours are available. REGISTER FILE PHOTO


Maybe you’venoticed by now,but Des Moinesis distinctlylacking in

mountains and beaches and mostof the other sorts of natural attrac-tions that other areas brag aboutin their tourism publications. Thecity’s earliest settlers noticed thesame thing and quickly decidedthey’d have to make their ownfun.

The result: Some of the best artsand entertainment options in theMidwest. The city’s museums,galleries and concert halls show-case remarkable homegrowntalent, as well as visual andperforming arts from around theworld.

Des Moines is big enough to offerlots of options and small enoughthat people can actually enjoythem without standing in longlines or shelling out big bucks fortickets. Some of the coolest stuff isfree.

The Des Moines Art Center,for example, houses one of theworld’s best collections of 20thcentury art, with major works by

Des Moines:An arts destinationBelieve it: Central Iowa is home to world-class art,from the Art Center to the Opera to the Symphony and more

“Spider” by Louise Bourgeois is one of the world famous works featured in the John and Mary Pap-pajohn Sculpture Park in the Western Gateway area of downtown Des Moines. REGISTER FILE PHOTO


Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon, AiWeiwei and others. The building isan artwork itself, designed in threephases by Eliel Saarinen (1948),I.M. Pei (1968) and Richard Meier(1985).

The Art Center also oversees theworld-class collection in down-town’s Pappajohn SculpturePark, where visitors can takeself-guided cellphone tours on astroll among sculptures by LouiseBourgeois, Mark di Suvero andothers. Jaume Plensa’s two-story“Nomade,” made from white-painted steel letters, became aninstant landmark when the parkopened in 2009.

The 76-year-old Des MoinesSymphony can hold its ownwith any regional orchestra in thecountry. The Des MoinesMetro Opera’s summer festivalpulls in fans from both coasts.Ballet Des Moines stages originalchoreography for talented stu-dents and pros. And DesMoines Performing Artshosts hit shows from Broadway,often during the first months of

their national tours.

Together, that adds up tosomething that locals haveknown all along but that stillmay come as a surprise tofirst-time visitors: Des Moinesis a destination. All thosepeople who fly over or drive byon their way to beaches andmountains are missing out.

Michael Morain covers arts andculture for The Des MoinesRegister. Find his blog atDesMoinesRegister.com/morain.

Use the Register’sLifeInAction app to see aphoto and descriptionfor each work of art inthe Pappajohn SculpturePark in downtown’sWestern Gateway Park.

arts & culture

ByMichael MorainRegister arts reporter


Jaume Plensa’s two-story “Nomade” became an instant landmark when the John and Mary Pappa-john Sculpture Park opened in 2009. Self-guided cellphone tours are available. REGISTER FILE PHOTO


Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon, AiWeiwei and others. The building isan artwork itself, designed in threephases by Eliel Saarinen (1948),I.M. Pei (1968) and Richard Meier(1985).

The Art Center also oversees theworld-class collection in down-town’s Pappajohn SculpturePark, where visitors can takeself-guided cellphone tours on astroll among sculptures by LouiseBourgeois, Mark di Suvero andothers. Jaume Plensa’s two-story“Nomade,” made from white-painted steel letters, became aninstant landmark when the parkopened in 2009.

The 76-year-old Des MoinesSymphony can hold its ownwith any regional orchestra in thecountry. The Des MoinesMetro Opera’s summer festivalpulls in fans from both coasts.Ballet Des Moines stages originalchoreography for talented stu-dents and pros. And DesMoines Performing Artshosts hit shows from Broadway,often during the first months of

their national tours.

Together, that adds up tosomething that locals haveknown all along but that stillmay come as a surprise tofirst-time visitors: Des Moinesis a destination. All thosepeople who fly over or drive byon their way to beaches andmountains are missing out.

Michael Morain covers arts andculture for The Des MoinesRegister. Find his blog atDesMoinesRegister.com/morain.

Use the Register’sLifeInAction app to see aphoto and descriptionfor each work of art inthe Pappajohn SculpturePark in downtown’sWestern Gateway Park.


DES MOINES METRO OPERA

Every summer, more than 200 singers,instrumentalists and stagecraft techniciansfrom across the country flock to nearbyIndianola to present one of the best operafestivals around. Now in its 41st year, thecompany performs in the recently renovated466-seat Blank Performing Arts Center atSimpson College. 515-961-6221,www.desmoinesmetroopera.org

This year’s festival runs from June 21 throughJuly 14, with a rotation of:

» Richard Strauss’ “Elektra,” based on the

DES MOINES PERFORMING ARTS

BROADWAY SERIES

Savvy programming and a season ticketholderbase that exceeds 12,000 enables Des Moines’2,700-seat auditorium to attract some ofBroadway’s biggest shows as soon as they hitthe road out of New York. 221 Walnut St.,515-246-2300, www.desmoinesperformingarts.org

Sept. 27-28: The British choreographer anddirector Matthew Bourne launches the NorthAmerican tour of “Sleeping Beauty,” histhird Tchaikovsky ballet.

Oct. 30-Nov. 10: “Wicked” returns for itsthird time since 2008.

Dec. 10-15: A new staging of “IrvingBerlin’s White Christmas” unwraps theold-fashioned musical that made Bing Crosbyfamous.

Jan. 24-25: The Green Day musical“American Idiot” turns ’90s punk rock intoa story about teenage rebellion against life inthe ‘burbs.

Feb. 4-5: The unstoppable Beatles tribute“Rain” performs almost 50 years to the dayafter the original John, Paul, George and Ringolaunched their first American tour.

Feb. 18-23: Blue Man Group presents theweird and wacky performance art that madethem famous worldwide.

April 1-6: “The Gershwins’ Porgy andBess” takes a fresh, updated look at the 1935jazz opera set in the Deep South — where theliving is easy, the fish are jumping and thecotton is high.

April 22-27: The winner of eight 2012 TonyAwards, “Once” tells a love story on thestreets of Dublin, with actors who play theirown instruments on stage.

June 10-15, 2014: “We Will Rock You”features the anthems of Queen, from“Bohemian Rhapsody” to “We are theChampions” to “Another One Bites the Dust.”

Sept. 10-21, 2014: A new 25th anniversaryproduction of “The Phantom of theOpera” brings back the legend of a beautifulParisienne singer and her secret admirer fromthe sewers.

Mark your calendar:Performing ArtsA glance at the new and upcoming seasons for threeof central Iowa’s performing arts organizations

Blue Man Group brings its weird and wacky performance art to the Des Moines CivicCenter Feb. 18-23. PAUL KOLNIK/SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER

arts & culture


Greek myth about a princess whose plot toavenge her father’s death plunges her intomadness. Sung in German.

» Charles Gounod’s “Romeo and Juliet”sets the star-crossed story to a shimmering,emotionally charged score. Sung in French.

» Benjamin Britten’s “Peter Grimes” tells acautionary tale about ignorance in a smallfishing village. The new production lands onthe 100th anniversary of the composer’s birth.Sung in English.

And don’t worry if your French or German is alittle rusty. All performances will be accompan-ied by English supertitles.

DES MOINES SYMPHONY

The state’s largest arts employer celebratesits 76th season — and Maestro JosephGiunta’s 25th — with a mix of familiarclassics and challenging new works.www.dmsymphony.org

July 3: The 20th annual Yankee DoodlePops concert takes over the west terrace ofthe Iowa State Capitol.

Sept. 14-15: Pianist Ilya Yakushev playsProkofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Major inan all-Russian program.

Oct. 19-20: The young Japanese violinist

Fumiaki Miuramakes his Des MoinesSymphony debut with Bruch’s “ScottishFantasy.”

Nov. 16-17: The orchestra presents amultimedia concert of Holst’s “The Planets,”with narration and outer-space film footage.

Dec. 31:Members of the original FourSeasons, Tommy James and the Shondells, andothers, headline the annual New Year’s EvePops with catchy oldies that will stick in yourhead until 2015.

Feb. 15-16: David Snyder guest-conductsan all-Gershwin program for Valentine’sweekend, featuring pianist Kevin Cole in“Rhapsody in Blue,” the soprano Sylvia

McNair, and the tap dancer Ryanvan den Boom.

March 15-16: Principal percussionist AaronWilliams performs a marimba concertosandwiched between two Czech delicacies:Smetana’s “The Moldau” and Dvorak’s EighthSymphony.

April 12-13: Beethoven’s groundbreakingSymphony No. 3 (”Eroica”) shares a programwith his Violin Concerto in D Major, featuringthe Hungarian soloist Bella Hristova.

May10-11: Benjamin Grosvenor hits thehot seat for Saint-Saens’ Piano Concerto No. 2in G Minor in a program with Giunta’s favoriteBrahms symphony, the First, in C Minor.

In September, a new 25th anniversary production of “The Phantom of the Opera” bringsback the legend of a Parisienne singer and her secret admirer. PHOTOS SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER

In April 2014, “The Gershwins’ Porgy andBess” takes the Civic Center Stage.

Enjoy a new staging of “Irving Berlin’sWhite Christmas” in December.

Des Moines Symphony Maestro JosephGiunta celebrates his 25th season this year.



BALLET DES MOINES

This resident professional balletcompany is aspiring to inspireyoung dancers to pursue theirdreams of dance, and as part ofthat mission, 2012 marked the firstcompany of dancers who livedand worked in Des Moines toprovide outreach and performanceopportunities for young dancers.712 E. Second St.; 515-440-1177;www.balletdesmoines.org

BRUNNIER ART MUSEUM

The state’s only accreditedmuseum emphasizing a decorativearts collection. Located in the IowaState Center on the campus ofIowa State University, the Brunnierhas a decorative arts collectiondonated by ISU alumnus HenryBrunnier and his wife Ann.Scheman Building, Ames;515-294-3342; www.museums.iastate.edu/BAMCurExb.htm

CIVIC MUSICASSOCIATION

Civic Music Association’scontinuous concert series hasincluded such notableperformances as EsperanzaSpalding, Vienna Boys Choir andJoshua Bell. Additionally, CivicMusic presents a free summerconcert series featuring the BelinString Quartet, Fridays at 12:15p.m. in Nollen Plaza starting May31. 1620 Pleasant St., Suite 244;515-280-4020;www.civicmusic.org

DES MOINES PLAYHOUSE

Television and movie actress ClorisLeachman once participated intheater productions at the DesMoines Playhouse, which isamong the six oldest continuouslyoperating theaters in the United

States. Visit the Playhouse as theyhelp launch more careers through12-14 musicals, comedies, dramasand family shows annually. 83142nd St., Des Moines; 515-277-6261; www.dmplayhouse.com

DES MOINES SOCIALCLUB

Construction is finally underway atthe Des Moines Social Club’snewest home, the downtownfirehouse, preserving history whileproviding a home for theater,creative classes and more. Untilthe space is ready in the fall, theSocial Club calls the first floor ofthe Kirkwood Hotel home. 400Walnut St., 515-288-3672;www.desmoinessocialclub.org

DRAKE UNIVERSITYANDERSON GALLERY

A nonprofit exhibition space onthe Drake University Campus thatexhibits faculty and student workwhile teaching students propermuseum and gallery procedures.2505 Carpenter Ave.; 515-271-1994; www.drake.edu/andersongallery

HERITAGE ART GALLERY

The building that houses theHeritage Gallery was built in 1908and served as the main post officefor Des Moines; it was placed onthe National Register of HistoricPlaces in 1975. This multi-usespace is used for artistic andhistorical exhibits. 111 Court Ave.,515-286-2242; www.polkcountyheritagegallery.org

TEMPLE FORPERFORMING ARTS

Once named as one of the “mostendangered” historic buildings theNational Historic Register, thisformer Masonic Temple has beenbeautifully restored and now hostsmusic and theater performancefacilities. 1011 Locust St.; 515-288-4700; www.templeforperformingarts.com

STONER STUDIO THEATER

A black-box theater tucked awayinside the Civic Center of GreaterDes Moines. Its regular cast oftenants include local boundary-pushing theater troupe StageWestand improv comedy troupeComedy XPeriment. 221WalnutSt.; 515-246-2300; www.desmoinesperformingarts.org

MORE PERFORMING AND VISUAL ARTS

Douglas Cochrane as Max Von Mayerling and Nick Toussaint as Joe Gillis in “Sunset Boulevard” atthe Des Moines Community Playhouse. SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER

arts & culture


EVENMORE SPOTS TO VISIT

Altoona Historical SocietyMuseum:What was once ahardware store now serves as aplace to collect and secure artifactsand historical records representingAltoona, Ia., and the surroundingareas. 104 Second St. S.E.,Altoona; 515-967-4815; www.altoonahistory.org

Carnegie Library Museum:This Perry building was erected in1904 with a grant from AndrewCarnegie, initially serving as thetown’s public library; it’s beenrestored to its 1910 appearanceand is again a working library withincredible specials collections. 1102Willis Ave., Perry; 515-465-2518

Farm HouseMuseum: Built inthe 1860s, just 14 years after Iowabecame a state, and located onthe Iowa State University Campus,the Farm House Museum is aNational Historic Landmark thatnow houses objects, art andhistorical information about theFarm House and its past. 515-465-3342; www.museums.iastate.edu

Fort Des Moines Museumand Education Center: Thesouth side museum honors theU.S. Army’s first officer candidateclass for African-American men in1917, and the establishment of thefirst Women’s Army AuxiliaryCorps in 1942. 75 E. Army PostRoad; 515-282-8060

Hoyt Sherman Place: Anornate mansion built for HoytSherman, who helped build DesMoines, more than 100 years ago.As a theater, it now hosts con-certs, art exhibits, tours, weddingsand business affairs. 1501Woodland Ave.; 515-244-0507;www.hoytsherman.org

Iowa Gold Star Museum: Thisfree museum in Johnston is hometo relics of Iowa’s military historyfrom the 1800s to now. 7105

N.W. 70th Ave., Johnston;515-252-4531; www.iowanationalguard.com

Iowa Hall of Pride: Thisdowntown facility features dozensof exhibits highlighting achieve-ments ranging from high schoolsports stars to movie stars andscientists. 330 Park St.; 515-280-8969; www.iowahallofpride.com

Iowa State Capitol building:Perhaps one of the most strikingbuildings in the Des Moines skylineis the Iowa State Capitol building,whose steel-and-brick dome isgilded with 23-karat gold leaf,making it visible for miles. Builtbetween 1871 and 1876, theinside of the building is equallyimpressive, featuring marble,works of art, fixtures and carvingsin both wood and stone. East 12thStreet and Grand Avenue;515-281-5591; www.legis.iowa.gov/Resources/tourCapitol.aspx

Salisbury House & Gardens:Besides the magnificentlymaintained gardens outside of theproperty, the Salisbury Housecollection includes more than10,000 objects including NativeAmerican crafts, rare books anddocuments, fine and decorativearts and antiques. Among the rareand first edition books are classicsby D.H. Lawrence, CharlesDickens, Ernest Hemingway andmore. 4025 Tonawanda Drive;515-274-4025; www.salisburyhouse.org

Science Center of Iowa: Open362 days a year, the 110,000-square-foot facility in the heart ofdowntown offers everything froma massive IMAX dome theater tointeractive exhibits for kids andadults to special touring exhibits.401W. Martin Luther King Jr.Parkway; 515-274-6858;www.sciowa.org

State Historical Building: Getyour genealogy on at the StateHistorical Museum, which featuresa research library in addition to astore, restaurant and historicalexhibits. The museum also servesup a bit of nostalgia, the highlightof which is a display about Floppyand memorability from his creator,Duane Ellett. 600 E. Locust St.;515-281-5111; www.iowahistory.org

Amiddle-schooler stares up atthe ceiling during a tour of theIowa State Capitol. REGISTER FILE

PHOTO




Hollywood hands out the Oscars. NewYork has the Pulitzers. And DesMoines? We dish out the World FoodPrize. Iowa native Norman Borlaugestablished the so-called “Nobel Prize

for agriculture” in 1986 to recognize the farmers,scientists and political leaders who help keep theworld fed.

The annual award carries on the legacy of its latefounder, whose crop research triggered the GreenRevolution that saved an estimated one billion lives.Borlaug was one of just five people — with MartinLuther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, Mother Theresaand Elie Wiesel — to receive the Congressional GoldMedal, Presidential Medal of Freedom and NobelPeace Prize.

The prize is awarded every October, amid a week ofevents with visiting dignitaries and celebrities. Butthe World Food Prize Hall of Laureates is a worthydestination year-round. The headquarters movedtwo years ago into its current home in a 113-year-oldbuilding that once housed the city’s main publiclibrary, on the west side of the Des Moines River. Thebooks have been replaced by interactive exhibits,murals, tapestries, sculptures — all designed to tellthe story of food production and support a notionset forth by Daniel Webster.

“When tillage begins, other arts follow,” thestatesman wrote. “The farmers, therefore, are thefounders of human civilization.”

The Hall of Laureates anchors a leafy public gardenon the Principal Riverwalk, but some of its greenestfeatures are hidden from view. The eco-friendlyrenovation includes 90 solar panels on the roof, 100geothermal wells dug 200 feet below the garden,and an 8,000-gallon cistern to collect rainwater forindoor plumbing and outdoor irrigation. Thebuilding is one of just a few in the country that isboth LEED Platinum-certified and on the NationalRegister of Historic Places.

It’s open for visitors, free of charge, most Tuesdaysand Saturdays. Check www.worldfoodprize.org fordetails.

An international treasure,right here in Des Moines

The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates in Des Moines, which opened in 2012 inthe former Des Moines Public Library building, is one of the few buildings in thecountry that is both LEED Platinum-certified and on the National Register of His-toric Places. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

ByMichael [email protected]

arts & culture


4. Glass mosaics

Two large mosaic portraits in theRuan Laureate Room depict thefirst World Food Prize laureate, Dr.M.S. Swaminathan of India, andthe first female laureate, Dr.Evangelina Villegas of Mexico, andwere created from a painting bythe Japanese-American artistKinuko Craft. Using computertechnology, the Mosaika companyin Canada then produced the250,000 individual pieces of glassthat were used in the mosaics.

3. Stained-glass window

This original artwork commissionwas inspired by a stone sculptureat Iowa State University by theDanish immigrant artist ChristianPetersen. The 20-foot windowover the rotunda’s grand staircasedepicts a family bringing in theharvest in classical times. It wasfabricated at the Franz Mayerstudio in Munich, with the“cartoon” drawn by Afghani artistFazl Maqsoodi. See if you can findmy dedication to Dr. NormanBorlaug hidden in the design.

Use the Register’sLifeInAction app to watchAmbassador Quinn explainthe World Food Prize’s eco-friendly LEED certification,a point of pride for theorganization, and see atour through the space.

1. The Iowa Gallery

A room on the mezzanine levelcontains an array of paintings byIowa artists, each of whichrepresents a story from Iowa’sagricultural and humanitarianheritage. One of my favorites isMary Kline Misol’s painting thathighlights the virtually unknownrelationship between MahatmaGandhi and George WashingtonCarver.

2. Energy Conservation Exhibit

The display on the ground floor tells the story about how we enabled this19th century building on the National Register of Historic Places to attainLEED Platinum certification, the highest possible level of energy efficiencyand resource conservation.

5. Historic WPAMural

The federal Works Progress Administration mural on the ground floorwas created between 1937 and 1941 and is entitled a “Social History ofDes Moines.” We restored the mural to preserve and highlight the placethis former library building had in the cultural history of Des Moines.

Kenneth Quinn

MyDesMoines Top 5

By Ambassador Kenneth Quinn President of the World Food Prize Foundation

Highlights at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates




The 2013 Register’s Annual GreatBicycle Ride Across Iowa rollssouth through the state July21-27, from Council Bluffs to thefinal dip of the tire in theMississippi at Fort Madison. Inbetween: A stop in the capital cityfor the first time in 16 years.

DAY1: Council Bluffsto Harlan

Council Bluffs marks the site ofthis year’s Missouri River tiredip/RAGBRAI launch. Visit theGreat Plains Wing Air ForceCommemorative Museum, butdon’t forget the trains. A56-foot-tall golden concrete spikesits at the intersection of South21st Street and Ninth Avenue andmarks the 1939 premiere of thefilm “Union Pacific.” TheRailsWest (www.historicalsociety.org/depot) and the UnionPacific (www.uprrmuseum.org)railroad museums are otherchugga-chugga choo-choohighlights.

DAY 2: Harlan to Perry

Day two features the Karras loop,inspired by one of RAGBRAI’sfounders and intended to makeone day of the event stretch morethan 100 miles. Choosing thatoption means a trip through theDanish villages of Elk Horn andKimballton and taking in thewindmill brought from Denmark in

1948, as well as the accompanyingDanish import shop — the largestof its kind in the entire U.S. Also,try Iowa’s No. 1-ranked tenderloinat Larsen’s Pub.

DAY 3: Perry to Des Moines

Day three cycles through DallasCenter, then Van Meter, thebirthplace of baseball Hall ofFamer Bob Feller and home to themuseum built to honor him. Thenit’s on to Iowa’s capital city for thefirst time in more than a decadeand a half. Riders will first get atour of West Des Moines beforeRailroad Avenue, Southwest 63rdStreet, Park Avenue and GeorgeFlagg Parkway steer them to thecampsite at Waterworks Park.

DAY 4: Des Moinesto Knoxville

Early riders can roll out of DesMoines and stop in Runnells formimosas at the Rosey AcresWinery or something stronger atthe town’s two bars. The winery’stasting room is an 1890 bank,where owners Tom and KarenDiltz pour samples of Iowa-grownParadise Mist (which goes in themimosas), Rising Sun and a redcalled Attitude.

Day 5: Knoxvilleto Oskaloosa

Before he became a soldier,buffalo hunter, bouncer, miner,

boxing referee and sharpshooter,Wyatt Earp was just one of theneighborhood kids in Pella. Hisboyhood home is part of the PellaHistorical Village. And don’t forgetthe Dutch goodies.

Day 6: Oskaloosa to Fairfield

The road out of “Osky” windsthrough some of the smallertowns. Bikers won’t spot manyshopping malls, but they cancount on the essentials: decentfood, cold drinks and a grassypatch for a nap. Then there’sFairfield. Oprah Winfrey called it“America’s most unusual town.”Fairfield is a mix of Iowa and theworld. There are more restaurantsper capita than San Francisco.

Day 7: Fairfieldto Fort Madison

The final dash toward theMississippi rolls through the threeBs — Birmingham, Bentonsportand Bonaparte — with stops inKeosauqua and West Point alongthe way. The 406-mile ride ends inFort Madison, where bikers candip their tires at “one of the mostbeautiful and accessible riverfrontsin Iowa,” Fort Madison Chambercoordinator Sarah Cantrell said.

Bikers can visit the city’s namesakefort, a replica of the original 1809building. The museum nearby tellsthe city’s history on the river andthe railroad, which still carriesmore than 100 trains throughtown each day.

RAGBRAI (finally) returns toDes MoinesThe 41st incarnation of the annual ridewill roll right through the heart ofbicycle-crazy Des Moines this summer.

Burken Farms just outside of Clinton decorated with farm equip-ment to welcome RAGBRAI riders. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

RAGBRAI XLI

WHEN: July 21-27, 2013

DESMOINES STOP: Tensof thousands of bicyclistsand friends will convergeon downtown Des MoinesJuly 23. In addition toparties and activities as partof a RAGBRAI events villagealong the PrincipalRiverwalk and downtownbridges, acts Everclear, Live,Filter and Sponge willperform a free concert onthe Court Avenue Bridge.As many as 20,000attendees are expected.

MORE INFO: Learn moreabout RAGBRAI, seehundreds of photos frompast rides and more atRAGBRAI.com.

outdoors



BRR RIDE

Known as the “Original WinterBike Ride,” the Bike Ride toRippey (BRR) bikers tackle thewild Iowa winter on two wheels,experiencing the notoriouslyunpredictable February weather,which in recent years has rangedfrom frigid temperatures andbelow-zero wind chills tospring-like temperatures in the60s. Held each February;www.bikeiowa.com

CAPITAL PURSUIT

A 10-mile and 5K race startsat Eighth and Locust streetsdowntown, then loops aroundnearby streets and finishes atNollen Plaza. Each September;www.capitalstriders.org

COLOR RUN

The only run in Des Moines inwhich runners and walkersparticipate in an nontimed race

while being doused from head totoe in various shades of neonpowder. The fun continues at thefinish line with a color festival.The first Color Run in centralIowa sold out. July 13, 2013;

www.the colorrun.com/des-moines/

DES MOINESWINTER GAMES

Hockey, softball, broomball, a

polar plunge and a cardboardsled race are some of theactivities and events that makeup the annual Des Moines WinterGames. Held each winter season(2013’s games were in January);www.iowagames.org

FUN RUNS, ROAD RACES ANDMORE OUTDOOR EVENTS

Runners celebrate completing the Color Run in 2012 by tossing paint into the air at the post-raceparty. REGISTER FILE PHOTOS

A bicyclists braves the winter weather during the Bike Ride toRippey.

By Erin RandolphSpecial to the Register



CENTRAL IOWA TRAILS,

GRIMES

Grimes boasts a stretch of trailsthat joins it to the metro area’ssystem. Along James Street,nearly two miles of trails link toUrbandale and other pointsalong the network.www.grimesiowa.gov

CHICHAQUA BOTTOMS

GREENBELT

Stretching for almost 10 milesalong the Skunk River innortheast Polk County, theChichaqua greenbelt offersseveral established trails rangingfrom a quarter mile to 2.6 miles.8700 N.E. 126th Ave., Maxwell;515-967-2596

CLIVE GREENBELT TRAIL

Clive has 8.5 miles of windingtrails along picturesque WalnutCreek and connecting togethertrails. A good entry point is theCampbell Recreation Area.12385 Woodlands Pkwy, Clive.

GREAT WESTERN TRAIL

The 16.5-mile paved trail runsbetween southwestern DesMoines and Martendsdale,passing through small towns,suburbs and farmland. It’spopular for its proximity toCumming and the Cumming Tap,a hangout for bicyclists.

GREENWOOD PARK

The Center Trail at GreenwoodPark, located near the DesMoines Art Center, providesopportunity for hiking and trailriding and opens up oppor-tunities to hop on trails aroundthe city. 4700 Grand Ave., DesMoines; www.centraliowatrails.com

HIGH TRESTLE TRAIL

This trail, relatively new butgrowing in popularity amongbike enthusiasts, features a13-story, half-mile-long bridgethat lights up at night. The25-mile stretch of trail goes fromAnkeny to Sheldahl and Slater,where it connects with the Heartof Iowa Nature Trail to the east.www.inhf.org/high-trestle-trail-intro.cfm

LEDGES STATE PARK

Considered one of the besthiking spots in central Iowa,Ledges State Park in Boone has13 miles of hiking trails that leadup and down steep slopes toscenic overlooks. 1515 P Ave.,Madrid; 515-432-1852

RACCOON RIVER

VALLEY TRAIL

A 56-mile bike trail that starts inClive and meanders throughGreene, Guthrie and Dallascounties. Starts on Highway 6 inClive; 515-386-5488;www.raccoonrivervalleytrail.org

MAKOKE TRAIL

More than 300 species of birdslive within a 30-mile radius ofDes Moines, and the Makoketrail provides a guide to the bestbird-watching sites in the area.Download a map at www.iowabirds.org

URBANDALE TRAILS

Urbandale boasts 36 miles oftrails on which to walk, jog orbike. 515-278-3963; for a mapvisit www.urbandale.org/biketrails.cfm

CENTRAL IOWA TRAILS

DRAKE RELAYS

See some of the best athletes,including Olympic medalists andworld champions, as the popularannual track and field event thattakes over the Drake Universitycampus. Held each April;www.godrakebulldogs.com.Not an elite track athlete?Participate in the Relays roadraces, or the Grand Blue Mile, a one-mile jaunt throughdowntown Des Moines.

HY-VEE TRIATHLON

Participate in or cheer on thosepitted against each other in a1.5K swim, 40K bike ride and a10K run as one of Iowa’spremiere athletic events hitsWest Des Moines. Sept. 1, 2013;www.hy-veetriathlon.com

DES MOINES MARATHON

Des Moines’ annual marathonhas a course that starts at NollenPlaza, winds through the EastVillage, Court Avenue, WesternGateway, Terrace Hill, Drake andWaterbury neighborhoods.Essentially, runners get a tour of much of our beautiful city. The event also provideshalf-marathon and 5K options.Oct. 20, 2013; www.desmoinesmarathon.com

LIVING HISTORY FARMS

OFF-ROAD RACE

This is a strange and unusualseven-mile (ish) off-road racethrough Living History Farms thatsells out quickly. Participantswear costumes and do their bestto avert the course’s notoriousmud pits and finish the race witha snack reward. Nov. 23, 2013;Living History Farms, Interstate80 and Hickman Road;www.fitnesssports.com

MUD RUN

Traverse obstacles and mud pits— including the signature MuckyMud Pit — on a course thatwinds through grass and woodedareas along the Des Moines River.Don’t forget to pack a change ofclothes. June 15, 2013; JamesCownie Soccer Complex, 2600Hartford Ave.; www.iowagames.org

RACE FOR THE CURE

A fundraiser for breast cancerresearch that features a 5K walkand run on the Iowa Capitolgrounds that bring awareness tothe fight against breast cancer,celebrates its survivors andhonors those who lost the battle.Held each fall; www.komeniowa.org

RED FLANNEL RUN

Sub-zero temperatures awaitthose brave enough to partici-pate in the YMCA’s annual three-and five-mile Red Flannel Run —preferably whilst decked out inred flannel. Held each February;www.dmymca.org

SUMMER GAMES

Skiing, archery, billiards andbasketball are some of theactivities that mark the annualSummer Games. July 12-14,18-21 and 26-28, 2013;www.iowagames.org

A group of Waldos ready tostart, along with 7,500 of fel-low runners, the Living HistoryFarms off-road race in 2012.REGISTER FILE PHOTO

outdoors

A.H. BLANKMUNICIPAL COURSE

This sprawling Des Moines golfcourse has its priorities in order:Golfers can page the beveragecart from their own cart. Thecourse’s GPS technology alsoprovides the distance of thegolfer’s ball from the hazards andthe flag. 808 County Line Road,Des Moines; 515-248-6300;www.blankgolfcourse.com

BEAVER CREEKGOLF COURSE

Situated just northwest of DesMoines in Grimes, Beaver Creek isa 27-hole bent grass golf coursethat provides leagues, lessons andcorporate outings. 11200 N.W.Towner Drive, Grimes; 515-986-3221; www.beavercreek-golf.com

COLDWATER GOLF LINKS

Inspired by the historic Scottishlinks that created the game ofgolf, Coldwater Golf Links hasbent grass tees, fairways and opengreens featuring native grasses.615 S. 16th St., Ames; 515-233-4664; www.coldwatergolf.com

COPPER CREEKGOLF COURSE

This 18-hole, par 71 golf courseamong the rolling hills of CopperCreek presents challenges togolfers of all abilities. Carts arealso equipped with GPS. 4825Copper Creek Drive; 515-263-1600; www.golfcoppercreek.com

COUNTRYSIDEGOLF COURSE

An 18-hole course located fourmiles south of the Des Moines

International Airport that featuresbent grass fairways, greens andtees. 3089 North Ave., Norwalk;515-981-0266; www.countrysideiowa.com

DEER RUN GOLF CLUB

The 18 holes at the Deer Run GolfClub measure 6,628 yards fromthe longest tees, for a challengingpar 72. 2305 W. Second Ave.,Indianola; 515-961-5445

GRANDVIEWGOLF COURSE

Grandview Golf Course is one ofthe oldest courses operating in thecountry. It was built in 1902.Unlike newer courses, the length ismuch shorter, but large trees

protect the greens, which offerplenty of elevation. 2401 E. 29thSt.; 515-248-6301; www.grandviewgolfcourse.org

JESTER PARKGOLF COURSE

Located 30 miles north of DesMoines and open year-round,Jester Park Golf Course has bothan 18-hole championship and9-hole par 3 executive course.With four sets of tees on eachhole, golfers can play to theirability. 11949 N.W. 118th Ave.,Granger; 515-999-2903;www.jesterparkgolf.com

LEGACY GOLF CLUB

An 18-hole golf course south of

Des Moines featuring bent grasstees, greens and forgivingfairways. All carts are equippedwith GPS. 400 Legacy Parkway,Norwalk; 515-287-7885;www.thelegacygolfclub.com

Get outside,hit some balls

A golfer tees off onto the No. 10 fairway at the Grandview Golf Course. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

Your choices of public golf courses in central Iowa are many

Use the LifeInActionapp to see aninteractive map ofpublic golf courses incentral Iowa.




PARKS

Blank Park Zoo

Des Moines’ zoo is alwayschanging, most recently with theconstruction of an Africa expansionthat will make room for eland,African tortoises, ostriches andblack rhinos. These animals join thealready impressive array of furry,finned and winged animals. 7401S.W. Ninth St.; 515-285-4722;www.blankparkzoo.com

Brown’s Woods

Iowa’s largest urban forest preservefeatures two miles of hiking trails,small streams, rolling hills and a richcanopy of oak and hickory treesthat stretches from Brown‘s WoodsDrive to the Raccoon River. Thiswildlife area is named afterTallmadge E. Brown, a successfulDes Moines lawyer who acquiredlarge tracts of land around DesMoines in the late 1800’s.Southwest 63rd Street, West DesMoines, 515-285-7612

Sleepy Hollow Sports Park

This year-round entertainmentvenue hosts go-karts, battingcages, mini-golf, a rock wall, lasertag and a driving range in springand summer, in addition to specialevents like the Des MoinesRenaissance Faire and charityrunning races. Fall brings thehaunted scream park, and thesnowy Iowa winter means skiing,snowboarding and tubing. 4051Dean Ave., Des Moines; 515-262-4100; www.sleepyhollowsportspark.com

WalnutWoods State Park

The Raccoon River intersects this260-acre park, offering fishing andcanoeing opportunities. The parkalso serves as home for blackwalnut trees, more than 90 species

of birds, shaded picnic areas withfireplaces and tables, an equestriantrail and areas perfect for crosscountry skiing. 3155 WalnutWoods Drive, West Des Moines;515-285-4502; www.iowadnr.gov

Water Works Park

Nearly 1,500 acres of open woodedareas located within city limits anddirectly across Fleur Drive fromGray’s Lake. Biking, jogging,picnicking, fishing and hiking areavailable, in addition to large openareas that are used for team sports,music events and other events.2201George Flagg Parkway;515-283-8772; www.dmww.com

CAMPING, LAKESAND RIVERS

Banner Lakes atSummerset State Park

13084 Elkhorn St., Indianola;515-961-7101

Big Creek State Park

12397 N.W. 89th Court, Polk City;515-984-6473

Copper Creek Lake Park

Four Mile Creek, 4390 E. UniversityAve., Pleasant Hill; 515-323-8200;www.ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us/

EVEN MORE OUTDOORSTHINGS TO DO

Miya, a baby Japanese ma-caque, at the Blank Park Zoo inDes Moines. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

course that winds through hills,dramatic bluffs and timberlandsurrounding Big Creek State Parkand two major lakes. 1000Tradition Drive, Polk City; 515-984-9440; www.tcofiowa.com

VEENKER MEMORIALGOLF COURSE

An 18-hole public facility andhome to Iowa State University’sgolf teams. Veenker has beenranked among America’s beststate public access courses byGolfweek magazine. 1925 StangeRoad, Ames; 515-294-6727;www.veenkergolf.com

WAVELAND GOLF COURSE

The oldest municipal golf coursewest of the Mississippi boasts18 holes built on wooded hillsides.Miss badly here and you’ll bebattling the hills. 4908 UniversityAve.; 515-248-6302;www.wavelandgolfcourse.org

WOODLAND HILLSGOLF COURSE

This 18-hole regulation course isperfect for all types of golfers. Apractice facility provides targetgreens, chipping practice andputting greens. 620 N.E. 66thAve., Des Moines; 515-289-1326;www.golfwoodlandhills.com

WILLOW CREEKGOLF COURSE

Three unique courses exist atWillow Creek: an 18-hole coursewith tree-lined fairways and largegreens; a nine-hole course withopen fairways and large greens;and a nine-hole course withvarying terrain and water hazards.140 Army Post Road, WestDes Moines; 515-285-4558;www.willowgolf.com

OTTER CREEK

Forty-four bunkers, 17 ponds andan abundance of tall grasses andmounding are waiting to swallowwayward golf balls at this recentlyredesigned Ankeny course. 1410N.E. 36th St., Ankeny;515-965-6464

ROLLING HILLSGOLF COURSE

A short course built on rollingterrain with oak trees lining itsfairways. Rolling Hills is a par 36,nine-hole course that can be setup to play 18. 6205 Highway 28,Norwalk; 515-981-1500

SHADY OAKSGOLF COURSE

An 18-hole regulation course thatat its longest tees offers more than6,000 yards of golf for a par 71.18169 Highway 92, Ackworth;515-961-0262

TERRACE HILLSGOLF CLUB

One of Des Moines’ oldest familyowned and operated golf facilitiesoffers a 41⁄2 hour guarantee: arriveweekdays before 2 p.m. andweekends and holidays beforenoon, and finish 18 holes in 41⁄2hours or the next green fee is free.8700 N.E. 46th Ave., Altoona;515-967-2932; www.terracehillsgolf.com

TOAD VALLEY PUBLICGOLF COURSE

This 18-hole course features 6,170yards of golf from the longest teesfor a par 71. 237 N.E. 80th St.,Pleasant Hill; 515-967-9575;www.toadvalleygolfcourse.com

TOURNAMENT CLUBOF IOWA

An Arnold Palmer SignatureCourse, Tournament Club of Iowaoffers a challenging, yet appealing

outdoors



DesMoines River Water Trail

Learn about access points and floattrips at www.desmoinesriver.org

Easter Lake

2830 Easter Lake Drive;515-285-7612

Gray’s Lake

1700 Fleur Drive; 515-237-1386;www.dmgov.org

Lake Ahquabi

1650 118th Ave., Indianola

Ledges State Park

1515 P Ave., Madrid; 515-432-1852

Middle Raccoon River

711 Bridge St., Redfield;515-833-2636

Saylorville Lake

www.facebook.com/pages/Saylorville-Lake-Marina/139667052771733

Seven Oaks Recreation

1086 222nd Drive, Boone;515-432-9457;www.sevenoaksrec.com

Yellow Banks Park

6801 S.E. 32nd Ave., Pleasant Hill;515-266-1563

DOG PARKS

Ames Dog Park

Bring current vaccinationcertificates for each dog and afacility use permit form. Prices vary.605 Billy Sunday Road, Ames;515-239-5350; www.cityofames.org

Ankeny Dog Park

Features a pond, aerator, gravelwalking path, benches, shelter andagility equipment. 1155 S.W.Ankeny Blvd., Ankeny;515-963-3570; www.ankenydogpark.org

Ewing Dog Park

Open year-round from 6 a.m. tosunset, and features 8.5 acres offenced area and an additional acrefor dogs under 20 pounds. 4660Indianola Ave.; 515-237-1364;www.dmgov.com

Indianola Off-LeashDog Playground

Fenced land for big and small dogs,agility equipment, wateringstations, waste receptacles, shelterand picnic tables. Annual or dailypasses available. Downey MemorialPark, South K Street and West 17thAvenue, Indianola; 515-961-9420;www.indianolaparks.com

Raccoon River Dog Park

Ten acres of fenced play area withmultiple fenced areas. Permitsrequired. 2500 Grand Ave, WestDes Moines; 515-222-3424;www.wdm.iowa.gov

Riverwalk Dog Park

The new four-acre fenceddowntown dog park at 1111 IllinoisSt., across the river from theBotanical Center, is open daily from6 a.m. to sunset. Permits arerequired and can be purchased atCity Hall. For $20 a year, a dogowner will have access to RiverwalkDog Park and Ewing Dog Park.Dogs must be licensed and haveproof of vaccination.

Rovers Ranch

Privately owned and operatedoff-leash membership dog park and

training center. Between PleasantHill and Runnells on 108th Street;www.roversranch.com

Windsor Heights Dog Park

A newer facility located south ofColby Park. No permits required,though animals are required to beup-to-date on vaccinations. 6960School St., Windsor Heights;www.windsorheights.org

OUTDOOR/REC CLUBS

Central Iowa Paddlers

A group of paddle-sport enthusiastsboth new and experienced thattake to Iowa’s waterways in canoes

and kayaks. In support of thatinterest, the paddlers also shareinformation, promote recreationand safety, and encourage care ofthe aquatic resources. Go towww.paddleiowa.org.

Capital Striders

Capital Striders is a running club forboth new and experienced runnersthat runs in and organizes its ownraces and philanthropic activities.www.capitalstriders.org

DesMoines AstronomicalSociety

The Astronomical Society hosts alecture series that’s meant toencourage, promote and educate

Valerie Veraldi, of Clive, andher dog, Ralphie, enjoy a sunnyafternoon at the Des MoinesRiverwalk Dog Park. REGISTER FILE

PHOTO

MY FAVORITE SPOT TO PADDLE:

BY JOHNWENCK, PRESIDENT OF CENTRAL IOWAPADDLERS

While it may not offer thedramatic scenery of the UpperIowa River in northeast Iowaor the wilderness feel of theBoundary Waters, the DesMoines River in Polk Countyis our home river and unbe-knownst to many, it has lot tooffer.

The 20-mile stretch of riverbetween Saylorville Lake andYellow Banks County Park is astate-designated water trailand also a National RecreationTrail. Five individual segmentsof river offer a variety ofoptions for beginner andintermediate paddlers. Somestretches are surprisingly wildgiven the fact that they liewithin the boundary of thelargest metropolitan area in thestate. Other stretches are rich inhistory offering uniqueglimpses of the past includinglarge Victorian homes perchedatop high bluffs, historicbridges, an old ice house

foundation as well as othershadows of the past.

Even within the most urbanareas, nature is present alongthe river corridor. It’s notuncommon to see bald eagles,mink, beaver and a variety ofmigrating warblers in springand fall.

Central Iowa Paddlers isleading a trip on the DesMoines River water trail oneafternoon each month duringthe 2013 paddling season.Nonmembers are welcome, butyou need your own equipmentand gear. Checkout the eventcalendar at www.centraliowapaddlers.org.



about the field of astronomy.www.dmastronomy.com

DesMoines Rowing Club

This group of rowers and rowingenthusiasts hosts the Head of DesMoines Regatta, one of the oldestand largest in the Midwest, everySeptember. The club accepts all skilllevels, as well as those who justhave an appreciation of the sport.www.desmoinesrowing.org

DesMoines Triathlon Club

This club aims to be the entry pointfor new triathletes. Its membersprovide support to help athletesreach their goals and increaseawareness and involvement inmultisport activities and events.www.dsmtri.com

Iowa Outdoor Unlimited

For those who appreciate allaspects of outdoor recreation, theIowa Outdoor Unlimited is anactivity-based club for all ages,professions, interests and abilities.www.iowaoutdoorunlimited.com

HORSEBACK RIDING

Jester Park EquestrianCenter

Riders of all skill levels will be ableto find an activity at Jester Park.Riding lessons and trail riding areavailable while it’s warm and sleighrides are offered during the wintermonths. The equestrian center alsohas a program for special needsand at-risk youths. 11171N.W.103rd Court, Granger; 515-999-2818; www.jesterparkec.com

MORE NATURE

Better Homes and GardensTest Garden

Better Homes and Gardens TestGarden is much more than itsname implies. Though it has 22garden rooms and beds; 2,500trees, shrubs and perennials;17,000 bulbs; and a changingpalette of 500 perennials, it also

serves as an outdoor studio for themagazine’s photographers, ameeting and lunch spot foremployees and a venue forcorporate entertaining. 1716 LocustSt.; 515-284-3994

DesMoines BotanicalGarden

Located on 14 acres along the eastbank of the Des Moines River, thegarden offers indoor and outdoorbotanical displays. A new eaterywill be unveiled in autumn of 2013.9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 909 RobertD. Ray Drive; 515-323-6290;www.dmbotanicalgarden.com

Forest ParkMuseum

A walking trail sits along the peri-meter of 12 acres of re-establishedprairie and wildflowers. Thearboretum has more than 100species of primarily native trees andshrubs. The museum itself includesDallas County’s last remainingone-room schoolhouse anddisplays featuring early transport-ation, farm machinery, small handtools, a blacksmith shop and more.Free. 14581 K Ave., Perry; 515-465-3577; www.co.dallas.ia.us

Iowa Arboretum

This self-proclaimed “library ofliving plants” is a 378-acre facilityhousing hundreds of species oftrees, shrubs and flowers as well aswoodland trails and a restoredprairie walk. Open sunrise to sunsetdaily. 1875 Peach Ave., Madrid;515-795-3216; www.iowaarboretum.org

Reiman Gardens

At 14 acres, Reiman Gardens is thelargest public garden in the state.The year-round facility owned byIowa State University sits near JackTrice Stadium and features indoorand outdoor gardens, an indoorconservatory, 2,500-square-footindoor butterfly wing and fivesupporting greenhouses. 1407University Blvd., Ames; 515-294-2710; www.reimangardens.com

FARMERSMARKETS

Downtown Farmers Market

The Downtown Farmers Market isthe biggest, by far, outdoor marketin central Iowa. Opening day lastyear drew a record crowd of40,000 people. Producers fromacross Iowa offer seasonal fruits,vegetables, meats, poultry,cheeses, eggs, wine, flowers,breads and more. The market alsoprovides local art and entertain-ment, learning opportunities andspecial programming.

Visit it every Saturday, rain orshine, May through October,7 a.m. to noon; Court AvenueDistrict; 515-286-4928, www.desmoinesfarmersmarket.com

Altoona: 4 to 7 p.m. Fridays, Junethrough September; Sixth StreetPlace Southeast in Haines Park

Ames:

» 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays, Maythrough October; 400 block ofMain Street, including Tom EvansPlaza

» 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays and3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, Maythrough October; North GrandMall, 2801Grand Ave.

Ankeny: 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays,May 18 to Sept. 28; Southwest

Third and Maple streets

Beaverdale: 4:30-7:30 p.m.Tuesdays, June 4 through Sept. 17;Boesen’s Field, 3422 Beaver Ave.

Boone: 3-6 p.m. Thursdays, Junethrough October; 528 Story St.

Drake: 4 -7 p.m. Wednesdays,June 5 through Sept. 25; FirstChristian Church, 25th Street andUniversity Avenue

East Side: 3-6 p.m. Tuesdays,May 21 through October; 3200Delaware Ave.

Johnston: 3-7 p.m. Tuesdays,May 21 through Oct. 8; JohnstonCity Hall, 6221Merle Hay Road

Pleasant Hill: 4-7 p.m.Thursdays, May 9 through Oct. 24;Berean Assembly of God, 5229 E.University Ave.

SouthridgeMall: 3:30-6:30p.m. Mondays, May 13 throughOct. 14; parking lot north of Sears,Southridge Mall

Valley Junction: 4-8 p.m.Thursdays, May 2 through Oct. 3(except July 4); Historic ValleyJunction

Waukee: 4 -7 p.m. Wednesdays,June 5 through Sept. 25; TrianglePark, Ashworth Road and SixthAvenue.

Stephie Tran of Des Moines gets help carrying her plants to hercar from Fred Howell of Howell Green House in Cumming at theDowntown Farmers Market. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

outdoors



BEAVERDALE

The Des Moines neighborhood ishome to charming Beaverdalebrick homes, tree-lined streets andparks galore, but the smallshopping district offers manyoptions for local shopping, as well.Beaverdale Books (2629Beaver Ave., No. 1) is an inde-pendently owned bookstore thatshines a spotlight on local andIowa authors, hosts book clubsand features writers’ groups andauthor visits and signings. Acrossthe street, Cup O’ Kryptonite(2702 Beaver Ave.) is a must-stopspot for comic books — as well asa cup of free coffee.

Back Country (2702 BeaverAve.) sells outdoor gear andclothing for those interested intaking their hiking, biking andcamping to new levels. The shopcarries hard-to-find brands andsome of the latest and greatest incampside innovations.Beaverdale Bicycles (2701Beaver Ave.) is a small specialtyshop for fans of two-wheeledtransport, while BeaverdaleVintage (3702 Beaver Ave.) canhelp you fill your home with retroitems.

If you’re looking to take ashopping break, several optionsare available: Grounds forCelebration (2709 Beaver Ave.)and Beaverdale Confections(2641 Beaver Ave.) for an icedcoffee drink and candy, respect-

ively. In the warmer months thereis Snookies Malt Shop (1801Beaver Ave.), the beloved icecream shop that inspires people tocamp there overnight in order tobe the first customers on openingday.

EAST VILLAGE

The East Village east of the river indowntown Des Moines hasbecome a bona fide shoppingdestination in central Iowa. Thehistoric district offers options oneverything from vintage andantiques to snarky T-shirts tofurniture to foodie delights.

Make one of your first stopsRaygun (400 E. Locust St.),Iowa’s foremost purveyor of ironicand clever T-shirts and noveltygifts. On the modern end of thespectrum, Domestica (321 E.Walnut St.) offers hip housewares,accessories, prints and more. Nextdoor is Ichi Bike (311 E. WalnutSt.), a store that specializes incustomized and vintage bicycles.Four-legged friends deserve to bespoiled, too, so stop by Jett andMonkey’s Dog Shop (503 E.Locust St.), which specializes inunique, eco-friendly andhigh-quality products for pets.Next door, Ephemera (505 E.Locust St.) is stocked withadorable stationery, home andhousewares.

Break time: Savor a cup of teainside the soothing space of

Gong Fu Tea (414 E. Sixth St.), ahigh-end teahouse with an entirewall of options in shiny silvercanisters. Then walk through afew foodie shops: AllSpice (400E. Locust St.), home to blends of

spices, olive oils and vinegars, andKitchen Collage (430 E. LocustSt.), where you can fill yourkitchen cabinets with tools andutensils and more.

For antiques, check out FoundThings (520 E. Grand Ave.) andPorch Light Antiques (526 E.Grand Ave.). On the other side ofthe spectrum, find a handcrafted,functional piece of art at Sticks(521 E. Locust St.), a gallery thatfeatures furniture, accessories andobject art. For the person in yourlife that appreciates one-of-a-kindor limited-run clothing, jewelryand accessories, visit the VitaeDesign Collective (400 E.Locust St.), home to items fromlocal artisans, plus vintage clothingand boots.

INGERSOLL

This Des Moines street is sur

Ready,set,shopFrom malls to locally owned specialty shops, central Iowa ishome to many options for filling your shopping bags

A shopper browses a selectionof necklaces at Raygun. REGISTERFILE PHOTO

shop



rounded by historic neigh-borhoods and features eclecticshopping options. For the man inyour life who loves clothes, pick upstylish suits, denim and accessoriesat Badowers (2817 IngersollAve.), an independent store withan in-house tailor — and agrowing reputation as a mensweardestination across the country.ZZZ Records (2200 IngersollAve.) is the ideal spot to pick upboth popular and rare vinyl recordsfor the music lover in your life. Getcustom framing work done atTandem Brick Gallery (2722Ingersoll Ave.), which also sellsunique gift items, jewelry or thehandmade paper Starlightz thatilluminate the store window atnight.

G&L Clothing (1801 IngersollAve.) has been dressing DesMoines residents in work, casualand dress gear since 1917. Withbrands like Carhartt, Dickies, Levis,Dockers and Wrangler and sizesthat start with kids sizes and topout at 10XL and 5XL tall, you’d behard-pressed to walk out emptyhanded. Swing byMobergGallery (2921 Ingersoll Ave.) tosee works by several dozenaccomplished artists.

JORDAN CREEK

Go west to Jordan Creek TownCenter for the largest mall in thestate of Iowa. Inside the massiveshopping center find high-endnational chains likeWilliams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn,Coach, Apple and J. Crew.And the Century 20 Theateroffers some of the biggest andbest movie screens and surroundsound (including select films inXD), as well as a spread ofconcessions with everything fromhot dogs and nachos to ice creamand cappuccino.

There are specialty stores notavailable at other metro malls,including The Art of Shaving, a

store specializing in men’sgrooming products, includingshaving and grooming kits as wellas straight and safety razors. Oneof the anchor department stores,Dillard’s, offers mid-rangeclothing, accessory and shoeoptions for the entire family. Forthe woman who prefersdiamonds, opportunities aboundat Jared’s the Galleria ofJewelry, Roger’s Jewelersand Helzberg Diamonds. Forthe more socially conscious personon your shopping list, considerThe Body Shop, which offersbath and body products; theEngland-based company is in favorof fair trade and against animaltesting. Sporting goods storeScheel’s offers a wide variety ofgift ideas for the sports fans orparticipants on your list, includingan enormous selection of Iowaand Iowa State gear, as well asgear for hunting, skiing,snowboarding and more.Surrounding the mall is more retailspots, such as Blond Genius(165 S. Jordan Creek Parkway), ago-to destination for high-endwomen’s denim.

MERLE HAY

Merle Hay is the city’s oldest mall,and the facility at 3800 Merle HayRoad is anchored by big box storesUlta, Target, Kohls, OldNavy, Younkers and Sears.Inside, find dozens more store-fronts, including several small localestablishments. The state’s largestnon-IMAX movie screen is at theMerle Hay Theater, and adownstairs bowling alley andRed Rock Wildlife EducationCenter (see live animals, such aswolves) provide more familyentertainment.

SHOPS AT ROOSEVELT

This small strip mall at 833 42ndSt. is home to stores offering manydelights. Vom Fass specializes inhigh-end whiskey, liquor and

cooking ingredients. The store sellscask-aged vinegars, wines andspirits directly from the cask; manylocally found only there. (And youcan buy them in classy, individualglass containers that arecustomizable.) Just a few feetaway, The Cheese Shop ofDes Moines gives you a chanceto tailor a gift to the ultimatefoodie, with gift packs, cheese andmeats, and more, with folksbehind the counter who knowwhat they’re talking about when itcomes to cheese. The store hasbecome a center for foodies intown.

Head to Elements Ltd. forhand-crafted one-of-a-kindjewelry, or to Worn resaleboutique for high-end anddesigner clothing for a fraction ofthe sticker price. Across the streetis Action Accents, a must-stopspot for swimwear, triathlon andswimming gear.

VALLEY JUNCTION

Valley Junction in West DesMoines is a historic district datingback to the 1800s. Now it’s hometo more than 100 businesses,including restaurants, bars, art

galleries, craft shops, and specialtystores. Heart of IowaMarketPlace (211 Fifth St.) offersIowa-themed food, souvenirs, giftsand gift baskets. For the kid whohas everything, peruse throughKangarooBoo (415 Fifth St.), aspecialty toy shop that carrieseco-friendly, smart toys for kids ofall ages. Each product is clearlymarked with the country of originas well, with most hailing fromEurope.

Stop in for wine tastings atWinesof Iowa (411 Railroad Place).Four-legged friends will benefitfrom the treats, toys and otherrandom pet wares available atDiggity Dog (511 Elm St.). TheTheatrical Shop (145 Fifth St.)and Atomic Garage (127 FifthSt.) are some of the best spots incentral Iowa for Halloween andparty costumes and vintageclothing. If you’re a second-handfan, head to A-OK Antiques;while there, do yourself a favorand revel in the mid-centurymodern offerings on the secondfloor. And stop by Valley Junctionall summer on Thursday nights forits outdoor market, as well as itsoutdoor concert series, Music inthe Junction.

VALLEY WEST

Valley West Mall offers more than135 shops and is anchored byYounkers, JC Penney and VonMaur. Fit to be Tied specializesin more than 30 brands ofEuropean comfort shoes, includingKeen, Birkenstock and Ugg.Calypso 968 offers an eclecticmix of home furnishings,sculptures, antiques, hundreds ofclocks, nostalgic candy andfunctional art pieces; many of theitems are one-of-a-kind and othersare reproductions of famousarchitectural, mid-century modernfurniture pieces.

Experience a 100-year Dutchtradition of European bonbons

Jordan Willis in a tie and shirtcombo from menswear storeBadowers. REGISTER FILE PHOTO

shop



filled with fresh cream and nuts atChocolaterie Stam. Iowa fansshould swing by Herky’s LockerRoom, the official team store ofthe Iowa Hawkeyes, which offerseverything from vinyl cargo matsand magnets to T-shirts,sweatshirts and jerseys. For thegame-lover on your list, visitGames andMore, which hasan oversized selection of boardgames, card games, jigsawpuzzles, dice, toys and, as thename promises, more.

The area surrounding the mall is ashopping destination all its own,withWhole Foods, PenzeysSpices andWorld Marketoffering foodies plenty with whichto fill their shopping carts. Also, ashopper won’t drive far to findone of the many big-box storeswhich dot the West Des Moineslandscape.

WEST GLEN

West Glen is a large complexfeaturing residential apartments,business offices, retail stores, barsand restaurants. It plays host to

large retail chain Target, but alsoto smaller specialty shops likeThree Dog Bakery. The petstore sells premium, all-naturalcookies, biscuits, bagels, chews,rawhides and wet and dry pet

food in addition to otheraccessories. For the trendy careerwomen on your shopping list, pickup a gift atMint LA, a localboutique owned by RebekahRisbeck, a former Los Angelesresident who spent 10 years in thefashion industry.

Winestyles West Des Moinesis like an Old World wine cellar:World-class wines, beers, cheese,chocolates, teas and accessoriesare available, as well as aknowledgeable staff to makerecommendations. How better topamper the females on yourholiday shopping list than bysending them to the spa; the Spaat West Glen is prepared toindulge your loved one in aluxurious 5,300- square-footfacility that offers medical-gradeskin care and body treatments.

You’ll find designer jeans for sale at Blond Genius, a boutique inWest Des Moines. REGISTER FILE PHOTO


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