This expansive farmer's market runs every Saturday from 7am–12pm. Browse local vendors, hear live music, and grab something to eat and drink.

Take a scenic two-mile walk around this lake, just minutes from downtown Des Moines.

Sample local beers (Easy Eddy is Claire's favorite!) and unwind on Big Grove's spacious patio or inside the sprawling brewery. A full food menu is available, too.

Another local brewery with a great patio.

Spacious indoor-outdoor brewery with high quality bar food like burgers on pretzel buns and fried pickles.

Grab breakfast, brunch, or lunch at Homegrown, which is right next to Big Grove and Lua Brewing.

Step inside a Victorian home built in 1880, where delicious homemade pastas, seafood, and more modern cuisine awaits. This is one of Claire's all-time favorite restaurants in Des Moines.

Nestled in the historic East Village, Lucca serves modern Italian fare in a sleek setting. You can't go wrong with a meal here.

Craving pizza and pasta? Snag a table at Centro and pop open a bottle of wine.

Pull up a stool at this local eatery specializing in—you guessed it—cheese! Think epic charcuterie boards, mac & cheese, grilled cheese...plus wine and beer pairings, of course.

Get your fix of Southern comfort food at Bubba, a beautiful multi-level restaurant with plush leather sofas and crystal chandeliers. Indulge in chicken and waffles or white cheddar grits.

Crab rangoon pizza? We know it sounds weird, but hear us out: This Asian pizza joint serves up eclectic and delicious slices in a casual setting. During happy hour, slices are just one dollar when ordered with a drink. Or, snag a slice late night after Hello Marjorie.

Kick back at a picnic table on this dive bar's lively patio. Food trucks often park here on the weekend, so you can pair your beer with a bite.

Grab a cup of joe at Claire's favorite coffee shop.

This retro-inspired restaurant serves eclectic dishes like breakfast egg rolls, s'more donut holes, and four different bloody marys. All the classics are on the table, too.

Grab a pastry and coffee at this airy and bright bakery in the heart of the East Village.

Modern coffee shop that brews specialty lattes, americanos, and more.

Tiki time! This colorful bar (and its tropical drinks) will transport you to a beach vacation.

Play a round of cornhole, giant Jenga, or Connect Four at this spacious open-air bar.

Grab a quick sandwich, salad, or pasta salad (Claire loves the orzo option) at this yummy local deli. The ginger molasses cookies are to die for.