Des Moines City Guide

Des Moines has a growing and diverse food scene with local dishes like pork tenderloin. International options include Mexican, Italian, and Asian. Vegetarian and vegan options are increasing. Late-night food is limited mostly to fast food.

Nightlife centers around downtown and East Village with bars, breweries, and live music venues. The scene is modest but active.

The city has a strong coffee culture with specialty roasters and local shops focusing on quality brews.

Tipping is expected in most services. Restaurants usually 15-20%. Taxis and rideshares 15-20%. Spa and hair services similar.

SIM cards are available at AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile stores, and Best Buy. eSIMs are widely offered. No ID or passport needed for prepaid SIMs.

Des Moines is generally clean with well-maintained streets and regular waste pickup.

Some 24/7 pharmacies and convenience stores. Emergency rooms open all day. Night food mainly fast food.

Supermarkets like Hy-Vee, Fareway, and Aldi cover daily needs. Several international stores offer Asian, Hispanic, and African products. Farmers' Market runs in warmer months.

Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Cash is rarely needed but accepted.

ATMs are common at banks like Wells Fargo and US Bank, credit unions, convenience stores, and supermarkets. Out-of-network fees can range from $2.50 to $5.00.

Des Moines Public Schools is the main district with primarily English instruction. Private schools exist but no dedicated international schools.

The digital nomad scene is small but growing, with coworking spaces and cafes catering to remote workers.

Large parks and riverside trails offer abundant green space and shaded walking routes.

Good running routes like Principal Riverwalk and Gray's Lake Park. Safe and scenic with active running clubs.

Several gyms and sports facilities serve common fitness and sports needs.

Public and private tennis courts available. Booking varies; mostly hard courts.

Padel courts are rare in Des Moines, mostly limited to private facilities.

Several yoga studios offer various styles and drop-in classes with English-speaking instructors.

Several gyms offer martial arts like BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Karate, and Taekwondo, all with English-speaking instructors.

Small ski hills like Sleepy Hollow Sports Park within Des Moines; other resorts are about an hour away. Mostly beginner to intermediate slopes with snowmaking.

Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding available on local lakes with rentals during warmer months.

No surfing spots since Des Moines is landlocked.

No traditional ocean diving. Some freshwater diving is occasional but uncommon.

Hospitals like Iowa Methodist and MercyOne have English-speaking staff. Care quality is generally high but depends on insurance. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are common.

Tap water is safe to drink and meets all federal and state standards.

The city has many parks, playgrounds, museums, and attractions suitable for families.

Des Moines is generally accepting with strong community groups and annual Pride events. Legal protections are in place.

Many pet-friendly parks, restaurants, and vets available. Dog parks and pet supply stores serve animal needs.