Name: The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar
Address: 321 E Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA

Discover elegance and sophistication at The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar, located at 321 E Walnut St, Des Moines, IA. Nestled in the vibrant heart of the city, our bar is a sanctuary for cocktail enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs alike. Savor expertly crafted cocktails that blend innovative techniques with classic refinement, or explore our curated selection of fine wines from around the world. The intimate, stylish ambiance provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night out, whether you're enjoying a romantic date or a lively evening with friends. Join us at The New Northwestern, where every sip is a journey and every visit is an experience to cherish. 

The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar

Everyone loves an underdog. In Greater Des Moines, it’s our competitive advantage. From our humble beginnings as a quiet insurance town, we’ve worked hard to create a home field advantage as an unexpected sports mecca in the heart of the Midwest.

The country’s largest skatepark. An iconic track and field venue. The longest running minor league affiliation in baseball. There’s a reason we were named #1 Minor League Sports Market in the nation and that NBA Hall of Famer Reggie Miller said, “Des Moines is the best site I’ve ever been a part of.” 

Whether we’re hosting marquee sporting events like the NCAA Tournament and Dew Tour, or a youth soccer tournament in the suburbs, our fans show up loud and proud. We’ve got the venues, the people, and the passion to ensure that your next sporting event will be a winner. Big or small, let’s play ball!


Catch Des Moines

Step back in time at Ken's—Des Moines' not-so-secret speakeasy located at 215 E 3rd St #100. Nestled in the heart of the city's vibrant East Village, Ken's transports you to an era of sophisticated charm and clandestine gatherings. Unwind in our vintage, dimly lit ambiance where expertly crafted cocktails meet exceptional service. Whether you're mingling with friends or indulging in a quiet evening, Ken's promises an unforgettable experience. Join us for an evening of elegance and rediscover the art of secret indulgence. Your enchanted night awaits at Ken's. 

Ken's - a not so secret speakeasy

Experience the heart of Iowa at The Iowa Taproom, located at 215 E 3rd St #100, Des Moines. This iconic venue celebrates the rich brewing heritage of the Hawkeye State by offering a meticulously curated selection of 120+ Iowa-crafted beers. Immerse yourself in the warm, rustic ambiance while savoring delicious, locally-sourced food that pairs perfectly with your brew. From casual outings to special gatherings, The Iowa Taproom provides the ultimate setting for making memories. Join us in raising a glass to Iowa’s finest – where every sip tells a story! 

The Iowa Taproom

Discover HoQ Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Des Moines' vibrant East Village at 303 E 5th St. Savor farm-to-table dining with a focus on sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients. Our menu features a delightful fusion of contemporary and classic flavors, crafted with fresh produce and ethically-raised meats from trusted local farms. Enjoy the warm, inviting ambiance that reflects our commitment to community and sustainability. Perfect for intimate dinners, business lunches, or special gatherings. At HoQ, we turn farm-fresh ingredients into memorable culinary experiences. Come taste the difference! 

HoQ Restaurant

Discover an unforgettable dining experience at Lucca, one of Des Moines' premier culinary destinations located at 420 E Locust St. Nestled in the vibrant East Village district, Lucca offers an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Savor our expertly crafted dishes that combine modern elegance with timeless Italian flavors, prepared using the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in our thoughtfully curated wine list and impeccable service that transforms each meal into a memorable event. Whether it's a romantic dinner, a celebratory gathering, or a quiet evening out, Lucca promises a taste of Italy in the heart of Iowa. Join us and elevate your dining experience to new heights. 

Lucca

Discover an elevated experience at The Republic on Grand, Des Moines' premier rooftop lounge located at 401 E Grand Ave. Nestled in the vibrant East Village, The Republic offers unparalleled panoramic views of the downtown skyline and beyond. Our chic, contemporary setting is perfect for any occasion, from intimate gatherings to lively celebrations. Indulge in our creative, handcrafted cocktails and savor delectable bites, all crafted with the finest ingredients. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long day or celebrate a special moment, The Republic on Grand promises an unforgettable atmosphere. Join us and elevate your evening! 

The Republic on Grand

Discover Liberty's at 101 E Locust St, Des Moines – your ultimate destination for an exquisite dining experience. Nestled in the vibrant heart of the city, Liberty's offers a culinary adventure that combines local flavors with international flair. Our menu boasts a diverse selection of gourmet dishes, crafted with the freshest ingredients and a creative touch. Enjoy a cozy, elegant ambiance perfect for intimate dinners, business lunches, or weekend brunches. With exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere, Liberty's is the go-to spot for food enthusiasts and social gatherings alike. Join us and savor the essence of Des Moines at Liberty's – where every meal is a celebration! 

Liberty's

Welcome to Zombie Burger + Drink Lab at 300 E Grand Ave, Des Moines! Dive into a thrilling culinary adventure where gourmet meets gore. Our eclectic menu features creatively monstrous burgers, each crafted to perfection with unique toppings and bold flavors. Wash it down with our ghoul-worthy drink concoctions, including boozy milkshakes and exclusive craft brews. Our vividly eerie ambiance, adorned with apocalyptic décor, provides an unforgettable dining experience that’s both fun and freaky. Ideal for thrill-seekers, foodies, and families alike—Zombie Burger is the perfect place to satisfy your hunger and your need for adventure. Bite into the extraordinary at Zombie Burger! 

Zombie Burger + Drink Lab

Discover the creative oasis of RAYGUN, located in the heart of Des Moines at 505 E Grand Ave. Renowned for its bold and witty apparel, home goods, and locally inspired merchandise, RAYGUN is more than a store—it's a cultural hub. Our unique collections reflect the spirit of Iowa and beyond, blending humor with a dash of Midwest charm. Step inside to find an array of high-quality, eco-friendly products that make perfect gifts or standout additions to your personal collection. Each piece tells a story and sparks conversation, ensuring you leave with a smile. Visit RAYGUN today to experience innovation, creativity, and community in every corner. 

RAYGUN

Explore Iowa's rich heritage at the State Historical Building, located at 600 E Locust St, Des Moines. Nestled in the vibrant East Village, this iconic landmark offers a captivating journey through time. Marvel at captivating exhibits showcasing Iowa's Native American roots, pioneer days, and pivotal role in American history. Enjoy interactive displays, panoramic murals, and rare artifacts that bring history to life. The building also hosts educational programs, special events, and workshops suitable for all ages. With its grand architecture and engaging experiences, the State Historical Building is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike. Discover Iowa's past and be inspired by the stories that shaped its present and future. Your adventure into history begins here! 

State Historical Building

Discover winter magic at Brenton Skating Plaza, located at 520 Robert D. Ray Drive in the heart of Des Moines, IA. Embrace the enchanting atmosphere of our open-air ice rink, where smooth ice and twinkling lights create a perfect setting for skaters of all ages to glide and twirl. As the premier ice skating destination in the city, Brenton Skating Plaza offers a unique, family-friendly experience with skate rentals, cozy warming areas, and delectable concessions. Whether you're planning a fun family outing, a romantic date under the stars, or looking to learn a new skill with our professional skate lessons, Brenton Skating Plaza promises joyous winter memories. Open seasonally from November to March, come create your quintessential winter wonderland experience with us! 

Brenton Skating Plaza

Discover the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates, a breathtaking tribute to global food security heroes, located at 100 Locust St in the heart of Des Moines, IA. This iconic, century-old building offers an immersive experience where you can explore the inspiring stories of those who have made monumental contributions to feeding the world. Marvel at stunning exhibits, interactive displays, and beautiful artworks that celebrate innovation and dedication. Nestled along the picturesque Des Moines River, the Hall of Laureates also features sumptuous event spaces perfect for weddings, corporate events, and more. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a supporter of sustainable agriculture, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates is a must-visit destination that enriches and inspires. Join us to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future of global food security! 

World Food Prize Hall of Laureates

Get ready for two action-packed days of junior college basketball at the **2026 ICCAC JUCO Jam**, taking place October 3–4, 2026, at the **515 Fieldhouse** in Grimes, Iowa!

The weekend tips off with the **women’s JUCO Jam on Saturday, October 3**, followed by the **men’s JUCO Jam on Sunday, October 4**. Don’t miss the opportunity to see some of the top junior college talent from across the region compete throughout the weekend!

📍 **515 Fieldhouse**
1220 NE Station Crossing Dr.
Grimes, IA 50111

2026 ICCAC JUCO Jam

The 2026 National Corncob Classic is a wrestling tournament taking place Sunday, October 11, 2026, at the EMC Expo Center in Des Moines, Iowa. Competition starts at 8:00 AM on Sunday. Wrestlers can register online through October 10, with no onsite registration available; registration fees vary by deadline.&#x20;

2026 National Corncob Classic

The Missouri Valley Conference crowns its 2026 Cross Country champions at the annual MVC Cross Country Championship on October 30, 2026. All eleven MVC member schools send their top distance runners to battle for individual and team titles. Hosted by Drake University on a championship course, the meet showcases elite endurance athletes from Belmont, Bradley, Drake, Evansville, UIC, Illinois State, Indiana State, Murray State, Northern Iowa, Southern Illinois and Valparaiso, with live recaps and highlights airing across MVC digital channels.

2026 The Missouri Valley Conference Cross Country Championship

The annual Grand View Open returns on Saturday, November 14, 2026, bringing one of the nation's largest collegiate wrestling tournaments to the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex in West Des Moines, Iowa. Nearly 50 teams from across multiple collegiate divisions and close to 800 wrestlers are expected to compete throughout the day, showcasing some of the top talent from around the region and beyond. Competition will begin at 9:00 a.m., with athletes battling across multiple mats in a full day of high-level wrestling action. The Grand View Open has become a premier early-season event on the collegiate wrestling calendar, attracting nationally ranked programs and providing fans with an exciting opportunity to watch elite competition in one venue.

The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar

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