Photography courtesy of Surety Hotel
Surety Hotel
PLAY
Exploring Des Moines should begin at the state capitol building, the only capitol building with five domes. A formal tour can be arranged Monday through Saturday. Next, head to the nearby State Historical Museum, where you can learn about Iowa’s role in the Civil War, its contributions to the film industry, and mammoth bones that were found in downtown Des Moines. The Des Moines Art Center houses a collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Georgia O’Keeffe, Edward Hopper, and Ai Weiwei. After visiting the art center, stroll through the 4.4-acre Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Continue your exploration in the walkable East Village neighborhood, which offers an array of eclectic shops, award-winning restaurants, and plenty of nightlife. And if you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss the Blank Park Zoo and the Science Center of Iowa.
EAT
Start your day at Horizon Line Coffee, which prioritizes sourcing high-quality coffee, building relationships with producers, and educating consumers about coffee. Grab the single-origin filter coffee or any of the espresso beverages. For decadent French pastries, head to La Mie Bakery. Clyde’s Fine Diner offers a modern take on the traditional diner experience and makes for a perfect lunch stop. Choose from a menu of salads and sandwiches. (We recommend the CB & J, a grilled cheese with raclette, cashew butter, and smoked apple jam.) You’ll find Veggie Thumper in a repurposed red school bus–turned–food truck, serving up some of the best vegan food in town. Italian-inspired Centro specializes in pizza, calzones, and pasta, though don’t forgo the fried Brussels sprouts and crab cakes. Kathmandu Restaurant is known for its wide selection of momos and biryanis. And for dinner, head to Mulberry Street Tavern, where you can start your night with a charcuterie board or grilled oysters and end it with a smoked pork chop or the famous burger.
STAY
Built a century ago, the 12-story Surety Hotel is housed in what was once the Iowa Loan & Trust Company building. The Beaux-Arts exterior gives way to midcentury modern details inside. With several spaces for gathering with friends and family, the Surety Hotel is a favorite of visitors and locals alike. For those who are staying overnight, Surety offers a curated in-room bar with goodies that highlight Des Moines businesses. There are also several dining options, including a coffee bar that serves a breakfast menu until 11 a.m. and, in warmer months, the Surety Courtyard.
