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Located in the heart of Iowa, Des Moines is a rapidly growing city. While they do not have any professional sporting teams in the state, there are still loads of opportunities to catch a game. Here are 3 must watch sporting events for the next time that you are in Des Moines, Iowa.

1. Drake Relays

Located at Drake University in Des Moines, Drake Relays is a century old track and field meet that takes place every April. The meet takes place at Drake Stadium and is the week long home to some of the best college and professional track and field athletes in the country.

If watching the aren’t your thing, there is still plenty for you to do. Drake University hosts many events like Road Races, a Beautiful Bulldog Contest, and Grand Blue Mile. Whether you’re there to watch the track meets or have fun, there is lots of opportunities for you.

2. Iowa Wolves

Basketball fans are in luck. Located in downtown Des Moines are the Iowa Wolves, the NBA G-League affiliate of the Minnesota Timberwolves. With home games at Wells Fargo Arena, sports fans are able to get an up close look at the NBA’s next stars. Future NBA players have come and gone from the Wolves, including current Timberwolves player Naz Reid, who is the reigning NBA 6th Man of the Year. On top of that, fans are able to attend at a cheaper price than NBA games, offering great opportunities for families to catch a game.

3. Iowa Cubs

Staying in downtown Des Moines, sports fans have even more to look forward to. Principal Park is home to the Iowa Cubs, the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Similar to the Wolves, the I-Cubs offer fans a look at the sport’s upcoming talent at an affordable price. The Cubs are also one of the oldest teams in Des Moines, as they’ve played ball here since 1969. Following the games, fans are often treated to a firework show with the Des Moines skyline in the background.

Summary

In an up and coming city, Des Moines has a lot to offer for sport fans. The Drake Relays, Iowa Wolves, and Iowa Cubs showcases the city’s sporting greatness. With all of these at good prices, it offers a great opportunities for families or smaller groups. Next time you are in Des Moines, make sure that you catch one of the many sporting events.

Wellness is extremely important to improve your quality of life, and it goes well beyond physical health. The following opportunities are available in the Des Moines area and many are free of charge. 

1. Des Moines Wellness and Yoga

DM Wellness and Yoga offers small group sessions, private yoga, and hosting events. They offer every level of yoga classes and have a beginner specific yoga program. 

2. East Village Spa

East Village Spa was voted Des Moines best Spa and recently moved to a new location. They emphasize inclusive care with the motto “Every Body Welcome”. Services include massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, or waxes. 

3. Fresko

Fresko has a menu of all natural and locally sourced ingredients. The team takes pride in preparing food from start to finish using traditional and loved techniques. They also have an extensive wine, beer, and spirit list. 

4. Aura Restaurant and Lounge

Voted Open Table’s Diner’s Choice of 2024, this Clive restaurant recently changed ownership and has created an elevated rebranding. Their menu ranges from American, European, Asian, and South American cuisine. 

5. Eatery A

Eatery A is a restaurant in Des Moines with a Mediterranean inspired menu. Their unique interior design consists of reclaimed wood from central Iowa and a wood burning oven. 

6. Power Life

Power Life is famous for their early morning hot yoga classes but they also have other barre and fitness classes at every heat level. They have five studios in the Des Moines area and have an incredible record for building and maintaining wellness habits.

7. Aptitude Fitness

Aptitude Fitness includes programs for everyone but is known for their female focused work. For example, they have a women’s self defense course and a three month nutrition program focused on cycle optimization. 

8. Greenwood Park

Greenwood Park is a beautiful 80 acre area in the Gray’s Lake Neighborhood including amenities such as an accessible playground, amphitheater, tennis courts, pool, rose garden, and so much more. 

9. Trixie’s Salon and Spa

Trixie’s Salon and Spa is inspired to make sure their clients look and feel their best. They offer a wide variety of services such as haircare, skincare, and massages. They have four locations across Iowa and have been a constant dependent for wellness.

10. Mindful Mental Health Counseling 

Mindful Mental Health Counseling in Des Moines practices Processed Based Therapy, which targets the major processes of psychological alterations. Clients focus on mindfulness and other general health habits. 

11. Des Moines Art Center

The Des Moines Art Center is an art museum, sculpture park, and teaches a wide variety of art classes and admission is free to all. Visiting art museums and participating in art classes has been shown to reduce stress and increase emotional intelligence and empathy, which is very beneficial for personal wellness.

Small-Town Charm in Eastern Iowa

Driving through the heart of eastern Iowa you will find a small town called Mount Vernon. It is full of history, charm, and lots of energy. You start to wonder what Mount Vernon, Iowa is known for you are in the right spot. It is a town that will leave a lasting impression on its visitors and the locals. It is full of life and a community that loves it so very much.

Historic Downtown

One of Mount vernon’s biggest claim to fame is its historic downtown, it is filled with unique shops, buzzing coffee shops, and local restaurants. Walking down First street feels like you are stepping back in time as you will be surrounded by 19th-century buildings. This year Mount Vernon will celebrate the 20th year of chalk the walk, which is iowa’s largest chalk art festival.

Natural Beauty

If you love the outdoors Mount Vernon has a lot to offer you. It is very close to the Cedar River and Palisades Park. Both of these places offer beautiful places to hike, swim, fish, or just relax. Whether you are taking a peaceful walk through one of the parks or planning a picnic for your people, the natural beauty of the area creates the perfect scenery for all kinds of activities.

Community Events

Mount Vernon has a very strong sense of community. This is showcased at their annual events. Celebrations like Heritage Days brings the town together with parades, live music, and lots of food. The Lincoln Highway Arts festival and the antique festival are two others that draw people from near and far to show what the town has to offer.

Local Food

Mount Vernon may be small, but it has a vibrant food and dining scene. This makes people from near and far want to keep coming back for more. The downtown area has a variety of cute coffee shops, delicious bakeries, and unique restaurants. A very popular dinner spot is the Lincoln Wine Bar. It is known for their outstanding wood fire pizza and live music nights. Many of the restaurants in town like to partner with local farmers to make sure that most of the food on the table is fresh and locally found. Whether you are grabbing a morning coffee from fuel or sitting down for a farm to table meal, Mount Vernon’s food scene will leave you wanting to come back for more.

Why people live in Mount Vernon

Whether you are visiting for a day trip, attending a festival, or simply exploring the outdoors it is easy to see why Mount Vernon holds a special place in people’s hearts. The town perfectly blends small-town charm, historic preservation, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Des Moines has a wide variety of coffee shops. For caffeine lovers and college students looking for a cozy spot for studying, there are many coffee shops to choose from. If you are looking for good vibes and a yummy drink these are the places for you. 

Vibrant Coffeehouse and Kitchen is a popular choice among Iowans. The cozy vibes of this shop attract many people with their large variety of coffees and energy drinks. This shop also carries food and merchandise that many customers like to indulge in. VIbrant is very well known for the welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu. 

Mars Cafe is another hit for college students on Drake’s Campus. This space themed coffeehouse also has another very diverse menu including cold drinks, hot drinks, paninis, desserts, wine and beer. This is such a fun way for students and visitors to come and enjoy a beverage of their choice. The main goal of this coffee shop is to explain that Martians were on a search for the world’s best coffee and this is what they came across. 

Next up is Scenic Route Bakery in the East Village. This establishment has so many delicious pastries, hot foods, and coffee. What makes this spot so popular is the amount of seating throughout the building where people can stay and visit or even take some time to get work done in a relaxing environment. As a business that is built from a father daughter duo, this business is not just about what is served but about creating customer service so genuine it makes you forget all about the separation of the counter. 

St. Kilda Cafe is an Aussie style cafe in the downtown area. This shop is seen as a key place to hit when in the mood for a strong coffee, an endless brunch menu, smoothies, and a full bar. 

Lastly, one of the most popular spots Horizon Line Coffee sits in the West End artist district of Des Moines. The vision of this establishment was simple, serve good coffee and care about others. Horizon Line is known for its specialty drinks and minimalist vibe. The group this shop attracts the most is more of a younger crowd like students or young professionals.

No matter where you are in the city of Des Moines there is a coffee shop that can fit your specific vibe. From a trendy vibe to a cozy vibe both will have a delicious menu with high quality service to fit your needs. 

Discover the Best Plant Shops, Botanical Gardens, and Plant-Inspired Cafes in Des Moines!

Calling all plant lovers! Although your mind might not go to a city as a plant parent’s paradise, Des Moines is a unique location for plant lovers. Des Moines is a hot spot for plant stores, exhibits, and gardens, providing ample options for anyone with a love for flora. Choose something from this list to mix up your weekend, or plan a weekend plant getaway to escape the urban metropolis.

Botanical Garden

The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a fan favorite. Locals and tourists alike visit to experience the beauty of lush nature year-round. They offer classes for children and adults, host events—including book clubs, yoga, and craft nights—and display sculpture exhibits among the plants. Get your nature fix in during the long winter months, and stop by the gift shop for the perfect plant souvenirs.

Purchasing Plants

On the hunt for a new houseplant? Renovation Jungle has everything you need. The owner knows her stuff, since her store came about because of her propagating obsession. She sells plants that will brighten up any home. Stop by to get tips, trade advice, and pick up another piece of greenery.

Plants n’ Coffee

For all the coffee-loving planters out there, Barista’s Bouquets will be your new obsession. This coffee shop is beautifully delicious and offers handmade flower arrangements and floral-inspired drinks. It also serves fresh pastries from The Bake Shoppe and uses housemade coffee syrups. Stop by to grab a little pick-me-up or to squash that coffee craving… or plant craving.

Plant Loving Crafters

If you’re looking for a crafty way to tend to your plants, check out Art Terrarium. Here, you can pick up all the supplies you would need to create a beautiful plant masterpiece. They sell stunningly unique pots and every plant you can imagine. Art Terrarium is dedicated to their customers’ plant dreams. From hosting workshops to giving simple advice in the store, they work hard to ensure everyone leaves with a beautiful terrarium they love—and can actually take care of.

Outdoorsy

Clare and Miles Mills Rose Garden is the perfect plant excursion for a beautiful day. This historic garden is a must-visit location for strollers and gardeners. Take an afternoon to stop and smell the roses, there are plenty here. The fields of flowers provide the perfect backdrop for Insta pics, but also serve as a mind-clearing oasis in the chaos of the world.