Welcome to Downtown Des Moines, the cutest little downtown you ever did see! Des Moines is a city that’s less than 20 minutes south of Seattle, and it’s nestled right on the shores of the Puget Sound. In this blog we’re taking you on a tour of Downtown Des Moines and sharing a ton of inspiration for how to spend a day there. Let’s go!
Rise & Shine, It’s Time for Breakfast
View this post on Instagram
As you’ll soon see, there are a *ton* of excellent restaurants in Downtown Des Moines. Now, for breakfast, there’s a list of great options. Pop by Auntie Irene’s Coffee Shop for breakfast bagels, wraps, sandwiches, pastries, and of course an extensive drink menu. If you’d like something more hearty, head to Jack’s Country Restaurant for classics like Egg Benedict, Country Fried Steak, French toast, and everything else you’d expect on a traditional American breakfast menu.
Spend All Morning at the Waterfront Farmers Market
View this post on Instagram
We highly recommend you visit Des Moines on a Saturday. The Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market is open every Saturday from June 3 through September 30th. (If you want to check out the scene soon though, the 4th Annual 2023 Holiday Market is happening on Saturday, November 4, 2023!) Know that the Des Moines farmers market is absolutely epic. There’s always an extensive lineup of vendors, and new ones every week. Pick up local fruit and veggies from local farmers, find unique artwork from local artisans, enjoy live music, grab a bite to eat at food trucks, and soooo much more!
Follow the farmers market on Instagram for updates on vendors + special events.
Let’s Do Lunch
View this post on Instagram
Of course, for lunch you can always grab something at the farmers market and have a little picnic. But there are also several highly rated restaurants to visit. TeaCup Bubble Tea is open for lunch and serves Vietnamese specialties like a variety of Banh Mi sandwiches, spring rolls, bubble tea, and much more. Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant is a solid option as well, with classic Mexican fare (think tacos, enchiladas, margaritas, etc.!). Dee Des Moines Thai Cuisine is open for lunch as well, and they have favorites like Pad Thai, Pad See Ew, and Panang Curry on the menu.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
View this post on Instagram
Beyond the farmers market, downtown Des Moines doesn’t have a ton of shopping, but there are still a few charming spots to check out. B & E Meats & Seafood is here (locations are also in Newcastle, Queen Anne, and Burien), and if you’re planning to whip up a homemade meal, this spot is your go-to for delicious cuts and hand-selected seafood. For even more specialty foods, head to Marina Mercantile to shop for gourmet goodies and relax for tapas and wine.
If you enjoy thrifting, head to NU 2 U Thrift Store, and if you’re searching for knitting/crocheting/quilting supplies and tons of inspiration, a visit to All Points Yarn and Carriage Country Quilts is in order!
Dinner is Served—Bon Appétit!
If you’ve never ever been to Downtown Des Moines, Wally’s Chowder House Broiler is a MUST visit. Loved by locals and visitors alike, favorites include the “World’s Best Crab Cakes,” New York Steak, Scampi Prawn Fettuccine, Maine Lobster Tail… and so much more. And make sure you get a “Beachy Bucket” cocktail to top it all off!
View this post on Instagram
Anthony’s HomePort right on the water is perfect for a view and they’ve got a great happy hour. Other highly rated restaurants downtown for dinner include Via Marina Wood Fired Pizza & Italian Cafe, Mandarin Kitchen, and The Quarterback.
And after dinner (if you didn’t have a view), head to the Des Moines Pier for spectacular sunsets over the water and Olympic Mountains!
Playing Games
View this post on Instagram
Ok, one last spot to check out (for today, anyway!!). Waterland Arcade is epic. This retro arcade and pinball bar has over 50 games. Grab a beer in between Pacman and Frogger!
A Day Well Spent
And there you have it! Our favorite way to spend a day in Downtown Des Moines. 🙂 We’re also excited about our latest home listing, which is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Downtown. Click here to check out our listing and see all of the pics!
