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

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

Wrestling

Discover comfort and convenience at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown, an IHG Hotel. Nestled in the heart of Des Moines at 333 SW 11th St, our hotel offers modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for both business and leisure travelers. Enjoy spacious rooms and suites featuring plush bedding, complimentary Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Start your day with a free, hot breakfast, and maintain your fitness routine in our state-of-the-art gym and indoor pool. Our central location places you minutes from top attractions like the Iowa Events Center, Principal Park, and the vibrant East Village. Business guests will appreciate our proximity to corporate hubs and on-site business center. Experience unparalleled service and make the most of your stay in Des Moines at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown. Book today! 

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown, an IHG Hotel

Welcome to Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center in Des Moines, where comfort meets convenience. Nestled at 929 3rd St, our newly renovated hotel offers easy access to the best of downtown Des Moines. Enjoy stylish, spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and a complimentary hot breakfast to kickstart your day. Whether you're here for business, leisure, or attending an event at the nearby arena, our prime location ensures you'll be just steps away from top attractions, dining, and entertainment. Relax with a refreshing dip in our indoor pool or stay active in our fitness center. For corporate guests, our state-of-the-art event spaces and business services make meetings a breeze. Experience exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere at Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center—your home away from home in the heart of Des Moines. Book your stay today! 

Comfort Inn & Suites Event Center

Flexible to fit events of all types and sizes. A small meeting of 10, to a concert of 17,000! Catch Iowa’s Largest Ballroom! 37 meeting rooms. 150,000-square foot expo hall, divisible by 3. Tax-Exempt convention center! 17,000-seat arena. 1,900 hotel rooms within one mile. Skywalk access to hotels, restaurants and nightlife. Easily accessible from the Interstate & Airport.