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.

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Travel plan

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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

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Des Moines

Welcome to the landlocked city where corn and politics thrive, Des Moines! Don't let the lack of ocean fool you, this Midwest gem still has plenty to offer.

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Number of days

1 2 3

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Des Moines in Four: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

A trip to Des Moines on a limited budget can still be enjoyable with a variety of free activities and affordable options. The city offers beautiful parks, art museums, and historical sites for exploration. Budget-friendly restaurants and accommodations are also readily available.

Spend a Romantic Day in Des Moines

Des Moines offers a romantic trip full of nature, culture and memorable experiences. Take a stroll through Pappajohn Sculpture Park, indulge in local cuisine at the food halls and treat your senses to a wine-tasting session at one of the wineries on the Iowa Wine Trail. Des Moines is a perfect destination for couples looking to escape for a while and create unforgettable moments together.

Fun-filled day trip: Des Moines Delights

Des Moines is a vibrant city, rich in culture, history, and entertainment. It is home to notable landmarks such as the Iowa State Capitol and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, as well as numerous arts and cultural events. Visitors can also explore the city's many restaurants, bars, and shopping centers, making it a great destination for a fun-filled vacation.

Discover Des Moines: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Des Moines, located in the heartland of the US, offers a number of budget-friendly attractions. Visitors can explore the state capitol, the award-winning art center, and the botanical gardens all for free. Foodies will appreciate the city's farm-to-table dining scene and the famous Iowa State Fairgrounds where thrifty travelers can enjoy a day at the fair for less than $15.