There's lots of great places to eat, shop, and have fun in and around Des Moines. Here are just a few of our favorites that should be good for this time of year.

Drive about 10 minutes to West Des Moines and explore Valley Junction to eat, shop, and even visit a cat cafe: https://valleyjunction.com/

Love dogs? Go to Paws and Pints and check out the indoor/outdoor dog parks, all while eating and drinking on the heated outdoor patio or inside the restaurant. They also have a great coffee and bagel shop inside: https://pawsandpintsdsm.com/

Want to stay close to the hotel and venue? We love the East Village! Be sure to check out Ray Gun for some really fun t-shirts and accessories. Grab a drink with a view at The Republic, or head to the Tap Room for all Iowa-based beers and great food. Make sure to stop next door at Molly's Cupcakes for a treat. Like old school arcade games? Head to Up/Down and also grab a great slice of pizza while you are there. Want some really unique pizza? Fong's is where it's at. These are just a few of the many places we like to go in the East Village. More info: https://eastvillagedesmoines.com/

Breweries! Des Moines has a bunch of them and many have won big awards. Our favorites: Big Grove, Exile (this place has the BEST food), and Confluence.