Heart Des Moines

April 21, 2025

Best Coffee Shops in Des Moines

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.

April 18, 2025April 18, 2025

Des Moines: A Plant Parent’s Paradise

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.

April 17, 2025April 17, 2025

Discover the Des Moines Botanical Garden: A Year-Round Urban Oasis

Written by Drake Student

Nestled along the east bank of the Des Moines River, the Des Moines Botanical Garden offers a lush, immersive experience for plant lovers, families, and curious explorers alike. This 12-acre urban garden is more than just a scenic retreat—it’s a vibrant hub of horticulture, education, and community connection in the heart of downtown Des Moines.

Explore the Conservatory and Rare Plant Collections

At the heart of the garden is its iconic geodesic dome conservatory, which houses more than 1,200 plant species from all over the world. Visitors can wander through towering tropical palms, colorful orchids, and striking succulents, all thriving in a climate-controlled space that provides a warm escape from Iowa’s chilly winters.

The garden’s impressive plant collections include one of North America’s largest Plectranthus (coleus) collections, as well as a historic bonsai display, featuring a Ginkgo biloba tree that dates back to 1865. Outdoor gardens surrounding the dome feature native Iowa plants, water gardens, rose gardens, and seasonal blooms that provide something new to admire throughout the year.

Events and Programs for Every Season

The Des Moines Botanical Garden is alive with activity all year long. Popular seasonal events include “Dome After Dark”, where the conservatory transforms into a glowing tropical escape with music and drinks on Friday nights during the winter months. In spring, the annual Spring Garden Market brings together plant lovers, local vendors, and expert gardeners for a weekend of shopping, learning, and community fun.

Other events include yoga in the garden, live music series, family-friendly festivals, and even botanical-themed art exhibits. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing evening or an educational experience, there’s always something going on.

Learn and Grow with Educational Opportunities

The garden offers a wide range of classes and workshops for all ages. The “Learn on Saturdays” lecture series invites horticulturists, environmentalists, and gardening experts to share tips and insights on sustainable gardening practices, native planting, and more.

They also offer programs for kids and schools, making it a perfect place for hands-on learning outside the classroom.

Plan Your Visit

The Des Moines Botanical Garden is located at 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, just minutes from downtown. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $7 for youth, with memberships available for frequent visitors.

Whether you’re a lifelong gardener or simply seeking a peaceful place to unwind, the Des Moines Botanical Garden is a must-see destination in Iowa’s capital city.

April 17, 2025

Discover the Best Des Moines Restaurants

A Food Lovers Guide

Whether you’re a local foodie or just passing through Iowa’s capital, Des Moines restaurants offer an incredible variety of flavors, atmospheres, and unique dining experiences. From farm-to-table gems to trendy spots downtown, there’s something for every palate in this growing culinary hub.

A Diverse Dining Scene

One of the best things about Des Moines restaurants is the diversity of cuisines available. In the East Village, you’ll find chic cafés and bistros serving everything from Mediterranean small plates to creative vegan dishes. Across the river in the Historic Court District, high-end steakhouses sit next to cozy Italian trattorias, giving visitors plenty of options for a memorable night out.

Casual Favorites and Local Gems

Looking for something casual? Des Moines has you covered. Local favorites like Zombie Burger blend quirky vibes with bold flavors, offering signature burgers you won’t find anywhere else. For tacos, head to Tasty Tacos or Malo, where fresh ingredients and vibrant spices create unforgettable bites. And if brunch is more your vibe, St. Kilda and Tupelo Honey are known for their aesthetic dishes and warm atmospheres.

Locally Sourced and Seasonally Inspired

Many Des Moines restaurants prioritize locally sourced ingredients, reflecting Iowa’s strong agricultural roots. Spots like HoQ and Proof lead the way in sustainable, seasonal dining—perfect for those who value both taste and transparency in their meals.

Save Room for Dessert

From artisanal ice cream at Black Cat to handmade pies at Home Sweet Cone, Des Moines restaurants deliver sweet finishes that are worth every bite.

No matter your craving or budget, Des Moines restaurants offer a dynamic and ever-growing food scene. With new spots opening regularly and long-standing favorites continuing to impress, it’s easy to see why Des Moines is becoming a Midwest food destination. So grab a fork and explore—you just might find your new favorite dish right here in the heart of Iowa.

April 16, 2025April 17, 2025

Sustainability Efforts in Des Moines

Our earth is the only one we are going to get, and there are countless environment sustainability organizations in Des Moines who are determined to make it last. Searching for grassroots non-profits to volunteer for or financially support? Here is a list of the top local sustainability organizations in the area.

Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation

From establishing Iowa’s multi-use trails to protecting untouched prairie, the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation works to protect and restore Iowa’s land, water and wildlife. Their mission is bound by the idea that together, we can do more.

Click here to volunteer!

Volunteers can share their enthusiasm for the natural world by connecting with guests, nurturing plants, educating, or supporting events and activities.

The Brenton Arboretum

The mission of The Brenton Arboretum is to inspire joy through the beauty and knowledge of the natural world of trees. It is home to more than 2,500 trees and miles of hiking trails just minutes west of the Des Moines metro.

Click here to donate or sign up to volunteer today!

Trees Forever

Trees Forever was established in Marion, IA in 1989. Year round, the non-profit works with landowners and communities to improve water quality, aid in wildlife conservation, manage stormwater, reduce soil erosion and decrease pollutants runoff…

Simply by planting trees on road and riversides.

Greater DSM Botanical Gardens

Join a dynamic team helping the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden become one of the most beautiful attractions in Iowa!

Share your enthusiasm for the natural world by connecting with guests, nurturing plants, educating, or supporting events and activities.

Volunteers are essential to the success. Join the team today!

Friends of Des Moines Parks

This non-profit works closely with the community and the Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department to enhance parks and expand recreation opportunities for all residents and visitors of Des Moines.

Their current fundraising efforts are focused on the projects listed on their website which aim to create vibrant, accessible spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Click here to donate!

Volunteer Today

As you can see, Des Moines offers more than the vibrant city life and diverse cultural experiences. Especially for sustainability projects, local non-profits consistently need all the hands they can get! Many organizations invite the public to donate or volunteer for their activities and events.

Find a local non-profit that interests you, and don’t be afraid to try something new. Share in the fun and the stewarding of our beloved environment!