DSM Tips:

The city is pretty small, but it has a lot to offer! I would plan for at least 2 full days to enjoy yourself or a long weekend if possible!
DSM is truly in the heart of Iowa. It is 2 hours from Omaha, Nebraska and 3 hours from Kansas City, Missouri, so you could easily spend a week or two doing a Midwest road trip in this area!

Lua Brewing: A superb brewery making incredible beers. They have a full food menu with delicious eats, and cocktails as well. Their patio space is great and their team is incredibly nice!
El Bait Shop: An insane beer bar with 260+ taps and great dive-bar vibes. They also have a food menu and a large patio space. Incredible spot!
Big Grove Brewery: A great brewery with several locations across Iowa. Their DSM taproom has a fantastic patio space and robust food menu, along with cocktails as well. Located downtown right across from Lua!
- Don’t miss their Neighborhood Beer that benefits the communities they are located in via microgrants!
Paws & Pints: This off-leash dog park and bar is a super fun spot for dogs and their humans. I was really impressed with the care and attention they put into making everyone feel comfortable—with attendants watching over the dogs, a full restaurant onsite, TVs for watching sports, a gift shop, and more. Mosaic and I loved it!
Surety Hotel by Marriott: A great stay in the heart of downtown. The hotel is incredibly nice with a luxurious bathroom and beautiful touches throughout. They are dog-friendly, and they also have an onsite bar/restaurant Mulberry Street Tavern.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park: A unique park with a variety of sculptures and nice grassy area with skyline views.

Confluence Brewing Company: This brewery has a massive tap list and a large garden located right off Gray’s Lake.
- Gray’s Lake Park: A nice beach and walking trails on a small lake.
Iowa Taproom: Another beer bar option full of brews from across Iowa.
Royal Mile: A fun British-style pub with tasty cocktails, British beers, and a full food menu. A great spot for watching sports, and they have a side alley patio space that is popular as well.
Daisy Chain Coffee: Solid spot for morning coffee, and they also have honey!
Scenic Route Bakery: Cafe offering morning pastries and afternoon sandwiches.