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

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 4-Day Family Adventure!

Des Moines, located in the heart of the United States, offers a delightful family-friendly getaway. With its wide range of attractions, families can explore interactive museums like the Science Center of Iowa, take a stroll through the Pappajohn Sculpture Park to admire unique artworks, and enjoy outdoor activities at the popular Gray's Lake Park. Moreover, the city's vibrant food scene, including farm-to-table restaurants, caters to the diverse tastes of all family members.

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.

4-Day Romantic Escape to Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines is a charming city located in Iowa, United States, that is perfect for a romantic getaway. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural attractions, and cozy restaurants, couples can indulge in a wide range of activities to spark romance. From strolling through the Pappajohn Sculpture Park to enjoying a scenic hot air balloon ride, Des Moines has something to offer every couple looking for an unforgettable experience.