The Ultimate 3-Day Stag Do Getaway to Des Moines

Experience the ultimate guys' escape in Des Moines, USA.

22 April 2023

A stag do trip to Des Moines offers a mix of traditional American fun and modern entertainment options. Some popular activities include brewery tours, axe throwing, and clubbing at popular nightclubs. Des Moines is a great destination for a memorable stag do weekend with friends.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Burgers & Brews

  • Check in at the funky Hotel Renovo, complete with a record player in every room
  • Start the night with juicy burgers and craft beers at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
  • Take a stroll around the charming East Village, full of boutiques, galleries and coffee shops
  • End the night at Up-Down, a vintage arcade bar with a rooftop patio and a huge beer selection
  • Challenge the guys to skee-ball, pinball or giant Jenga, while sipping on local IPAs
Day 2

Art & Sports

  • Grab breakfast at Scenic Route Bakery, famous for their homemade croissants and cinnamon rolls
  • Visit the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a stunning outdoor museum with over 30 sculptures by world-renowned artists
  • Head to Principal Park, home of the Iowa Cubs minor league baseball team, and catch a game
  • Indulge in Iowa-style pizza at Fong's Pizza, a quirky joint in the Historic Court Avenue District
  • Dance the night away at the Gas Lamp, a downtown music venue with live bands and DJs every weekend
Day 3

Brunch & Breweries

  • Sleep in and then brunch at Americana, a trendy spot with a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar and dishes like goat cheese omelets
  • Explore the vibrant Western Gateway Park, home to the Des Moines Art Center and the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
  • Do a craft beer crawl along the Ingersoll Avenue Corridor, stopping at Confluence Brewing Company, Exile Brewing Co. and 515 Brewing Company
  • Have dinner at Jethro's BBQ n' Bacon Bacon, known for their massive portions and bacon-wrapped appetizers
  • End the stag do on a high note with a private party at Smash Park, a state-of-the-art entertainment venue with games like pickleball, shuffleboard and giant Connect Four

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Des Moines by plane is to fly into Des Moines International Airport, which is located five miles southwest of downtown. Major airlines that operate at this airport include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.

Car

Driving is a convenient way to get to Des Moines as many major highways, including Interstates 35 and 80, run through the city. It is important to note that traffic congestion can be an issue during rush hour periods.

Train

There is no direct train service to Des Moines, so taking a train is not a recommended mode of transportation to get to the city.

Boat

Since Des Moines is not a coastal city, traveling by boat is not possible. However, boat tours are available on nearby rivers, such as the Des Moines River.

Bus

Taking the bus is an affordable way to get to Des Moines. Greyhound Lines and Jefferson Lines operate bus services to Des Moines, with the bus station located in downtown Des Moines at 100 Cherry Street.

More travel plans

Five Days of Fun in Des Moines

Des Moines is the capital of Iowa and a hidden gem in the Midwest. Visitors can explore the city's rich cultural offerings, such as the Des Moines Art Center or the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, or take in a show at the historic Civic Center. The city is also home to delicious local cuisine, including the famous Iowa sweet corn and award-winning craft breweries.

Des Moines Unlocked: A Two-Day Budget Adventure

Des Moines offers plenty of options for frugal travelers on a budget. Start your day by visiting the historic Pappajohn Sculpture Park and then walk over to the State Capitol for a free tour. End your day by exploring the East Village, which is filled with local boutiques, restaurants, and colorful street art.

Des Moines Delights: A 5-Day Family Adventure Extravaganza!

Des Moines, United States offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its blend of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and vibrant communities. Explore the Blank Park Zoo, where kids can enjoy up-close encounters with animals, or visit the Science Center of Iowa for interactive science exhibits that are both educational and entertaining. The city also boasts beautiful parks and green spaces, such as Gray's Lake Park, where families can picnic, bike, and even rent paddle boats.

Des Moines on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Des Moines is a charming city in the heartland of the United States. Despite being the state capital of Iowa, it's possible to experience the best of the city on a limited budget. From visiting the free Des Moines Art Center and the Iowa State Capitol building, to strolling through the scenic Gray's Lake Park, there's plenty of affordable activities for any budget-conscious traveler.