Discover the culinary delight that is Park Street Kitchen & Bar, nestled in the heart of Des Moines at 435 Park St. Indulge your senses with our innovative menu, expertly crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're joining us for a casual lunch, an intimate dinner, or a spirited happy hour, our sophisticated atmosphere and warm hospitality promise an unforgettable experience. Savor our chef's seasonal creations, complemented by an extensive selection of fine wines, craft beers, and artisanal cocktails. Park Street Kitchen & Bar is not just a meal, but a destination for those who appreciate the art of dining. Make your next outing extraordinary—visit us today! 

Park Street Kitchen & Bar

Discover the vibrant flavors of the Big Easy right in the heart of Des Moines at Buzzard Billy’s. Located at 615 3rd St, this lively eatery offers an authentic taste of Cajun and Creole cuisine that will transport your senses straight to New Orleans. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and our famous fried alligator while soaking in the rustic, Southern charm of our welcoming atmosphere. Pair your meal with a unique craft cocktail or a local brew from our extensive drinks menu. Whether you’re here for lunch, dinner, or a special gathering, Buzzard Billy’s promises a memorable dining experience filled with bold flavors and warm hospitality. Join us and let the good times roll! 

Buzzard Billy’s

Discover a culinary gem in Des Moines at Splash Seafood Bar & Grill, located at 303 Locust St. Renowned for its vibrant, coastal ambiance and exceptional seafood, Splash offers a unique dining experience that appeals to both casual diners and seafood enthusiasts. Indulge in our fresh, sustainably-sourced seafood dishes, expertly prepared by our talented chefs. Pair your meal with a selection from our extensive wine list or a craft cocktail from our full-service bar. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a night out, Splash Seafood Bar & Grill promises an unforgettable taste of the ocean in the heart of the Midwest. Come savor the flavors at Splash, where every bite is a splash of delight! 

Splash Seafood Bar & Grill

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 Southern hospitality at its finest at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar, conveniently located at 665 Grand Ave Ste 100, Des Moines, IA. Immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of the South with our flavorful menu, featuring farm-fresh, made-from-scratch dishes that celebrate the vibrant flavors of classic Southern cuisine. From our tantalizing fried green tomatoes to our signature honey dusted fried chicken, each bite takes you straight to the heart of Southern comfort. Enjoy our warm, inviting atmosphere that combines modern charm with rustic elegance, perfect for any occasion. Savor our expertly crafted cocktails and local craft beers while enjoying unparalleled service that makes you feel right at home. Whether it's a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a special celebration, Tupelo Honey promises an unforgettable dining experience. Come and taste the South at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar in Des Moines! 

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

Discover world-class entertainment at the Des Moines Civic Center, located at 221 Walnut St in the heart of downtown Des Moines, IA. As the region's premier performing arts venue, the Civic Center hosts a diverse lineup of Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and family-friendly events. Enjoy unparalleled acoustics and state-of-the-art facilities that make every seat exceptional. Home to the renowned Des Moines Performing Arts, this iconic cultural hub also offers enriching educational programs and community outreach initiatives. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Des Moines Civic Center promises unforgettable experiences that captivate and inspire. Join us for an evening of magic and artistry at one of Iowa's most treasured landmarks. Book your tickets now and be part of the excitement! 

Des Moines Civic Center

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

Experience heart-pounding terror at The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction, the Midwest’s premier destination for spine-tingling scares! Nestled in the historic district of Des Moines at 500 Locust St, this macabre masterpiece plunges you into a nightmare realm of grotesque horrors and chilling thrills. As you navigate through our labyrinthine halls, encounter relentless live actors and mind-bending special effects designed to prey on your deepest fears. Whether you're braving our twisted corridors alone or with friends, each step promises an unforgettable fright. Dare to face the darkness? Join us this Halloween season for a bone-chilling adventure you won't soon forget. Buy your tickets now and prepare for the ultimate haunted experience! 

The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction

Welcome to Fong's Pizza, where East meets West in a fusion of flavors! Located in the heart of Des Moines at 223 4th St, we offer an unrivaled pizza experience. Savor our signature Crab Rangoon Pizza or indulge in our eclectic range of traditional and innovative pies. Our cozy, upbeat atmosphere is perfect for a casual meal or a night out with friends. Pair your pizza with a craft beer from our extensive local selection or sip on one of our exotic tiki cocktails. Whether you dine in, take out, or order delivery, Fong's Pizza promises a uniquely delicious journey that will have you coming back for more. Discover why we're a local favorite and make Fong's your go-to spot for pizza with a twist! 

Fong's Pizza

Discover the culinary delight that is Local Bites, conveniently situated at 700 Locust St, Des Moines, IA. Local Bites specializes in bringing you the freshest, most delectable dishes crafted from locally-sourced ingredients. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast, a quick and satisfying lunch, or a decadent dinner, our diverse menu caters to every taste and occasion. Enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, where contemporary design meets cozy comfort, perfect for casual meetups or business lunches. Our friendly staff are dedicated to providing exceptional service, ensuring a memorable dining experience every time you visit. Stop by Local Bites, where every meal celebrates the flavors of Iowa. Join us and taste the difference that local makes! 

Local Bites

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

Discover a slice of British charm right in the heart of Des Moines at The Royal Mile. Located at 210 4th St, this beloved pub transports you across the pond with its authentic atmosphere, extensive selection of craft beers, and a menu brimming with classic British fare. Whether you’re craving a perfectly flaky fish and chips or a savory shepherd’s pie, The Royal Mile promises a taste sensation that pairs perfectly with their impressive draught list. With cozy wooden interiors, friendly staff, and regular live music, it's the ultimate destination for an unforgettable night out. Join us at The Royal Mile and immerse yourself in the warmth of British pub culture, no passport required! 

The Royal Mile

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 ISAA Pro-Am 2026 is one of the premier archery tournaments in the country, returning to the centrally located EMC Expo Center in downtown Des Moines, Iowa, from December 18–20, 2026. This prestigious event welcomes archers of all ages and genders, featuring combined classes like Amateur Money Bowhunter Freestyle and Amateur Money Freestyle, as well as a Trophy division with medal awards for 2nd and 3rd place. Proceeds support Iowa Archery in the Schools Programs, college scholarships, and youth initiatives, including donations to the John Stoddard Cancer Center and Retrieving Freedom. Join top competitors and enjoy a weekend of elite archery action in the heart of Iowa.

ISAA Pro-Am 2026

Chow's Winter Classic is a USA Gymnastics-sanctioned invitational gymnastics competition hosted by Chow's Gymnastics Booster Club on January 9–10, 2027, at Hall C of the EMC Expo Center at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines, Iowa. Club gymnasts compete across vault, bars, beam, and floor using professional competition equipment, with session-based medals, team recognition, and level-specific awards. Gymnasts registered before November 1, 2026 receive a custom Plum leotard, making this event a strong choice for participating gymnastics clubs and athletes seeking a well-equipped competitive meet.

Chow's 24th Annual Winter Classic

he Iowa State 8-Ball and 9-Ball Championships, organized by the Iowa State Poolplayers Association (ISPA), are premier amateur billiards tournaments held annually in Des Moines, Iowa.&#x20;

These championships feature a range of divisions, including singles, doubles, and five-person team events, accommodating various skill levels for both men and women. To qualify, players must have participated in at least six weeks of league play under the same League Operator.

The tournament is renowned for its well-organized structure, generous prize pools, and a vibrant atmosphere that attracts pool enthusiasts from across the region. Attendees can also enjoy raffles and giveaways throughout the event.

For more information and registration details, visit the official ISPA website: [https://ispa-billiards.org](https://ispa-billiards.org/)

31st Annual Iowa State Pool Players Association Tournament

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 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.

Grand View Open

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.

EMC Expo Center

Air Conditioning

Bleachers

Chairs

Cleaning Station

Concessions

Futsal Goals

Gymnastics Equipment

Hand Sanitizing Station

Heat

Lighting

Locker Room

Parking

Restrooms

Retractable Hoops Nets

Rugby Posts

Scoreboard

Speakers

Tables

Tumbling Mats

TV’s

Video

Volleyball Nets

Wheelchair Accessible

Wifi

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!


EMC Expo Center

About EMC Expo Center

Photos

Sports

Amenities

Spaces

Quick Links

Featured & Upcoming Events

Contacts

Upcoming at this facility

Near EMC Expo Center