Things to See & Do
Spirit of the Marathon
Meet Spirit of the Marathon director, Jon Dunham, and producer, Melissa Leggittand before watching the film on Saturday, October 18. This special matinee showings will begin at 1 p.m. at the Varsity Theatre on the campus of Drake University.
Purchase your $10 tickets in advance.
Spirit of the Marathon is the first ever nonfiction feature film to capture the drama and essence of the famed 26.2 mile running event. Filmed on four continents, the movie brings together a diverse cast of amateur athletes and marathon luminaries.
As six unique stories unfold, each runner prepares for and ultimately faces the challenge of the Chicago Marathon. More than a sports movie, Spirit of the Marathon is an inspirational journey of perseverance and personal triumph; a spectacle that will be embraced by runners and non-runners alike.
Know Downtown
Visitor Resources
The
Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau is an excellent resource for activities in the greater Des Moines area ranging from shopping, restaurants, lodging and entertainment options for the entire family.
The Downtown Community Alliance, an affiliate of the Greater Des Moines Partnership offers
Know Downtown featuring a calendar of events, maps and activities that take place...well, in downtown Des Moines.
Downtown Activities
Iowa.com has additional information on it's website regarding activities in the Des Moines area.
Desmoines365.com has the latest in the cultural buzz about town, including news and events.
Desmoinesalive.com is dedicated to discovering and promoting fun and exciting things to do in Des Moines.
Absolutedsm.com provides a variety of photo galleries of downtown Des Moines and it's skylines.
Everything you wanted to know about Des Moines, Iowa.
Downtown Nightlife
IMT Des Moines Marathon festivities will be taking place around town as early as Thursday evening. Several restaurants and bars in the Court Avenue District are looking forward to your arrival downtown.
Blues on Grand was recently voted the best blues bar in the country and features national touring acts.
The House of Bricks in the East Village spotlights a wide range of regional acts, including some of the best Des Moines based bands.
If you are looking for a fun place to take the family for food and games, try In-Play featuring the latest video games, kiddie funland and interactive bowling.
The IMT Des Moines Marathon will return to the Hessen Haus for an official German style post race party on Sunday evening!
Downtown Attractions
Saturday morning features a world class Farmers Market on Court Avenue.
The Science Center of Iowa, complete with IMAX theater, is a great family activity that is located near Nollen Plaza and serves as the start line for the Children's Center at Mercy Kids Run.
Hy-Vee Hall is home to the Iowa Hall of Pride, which showcases Iowa athletics through interactive kiosks and displays.
The Botanical Center is a popular downtown destination for visitors, especially on a rainy day.
The Iowa State Capitol and State Historical Building along with shopping in the East Village are a great way to spend an afternoon.
Know Des Moines
The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines has expanded their family-friendly zoo with an enclosed rainforest and tiger exhibit.
The Des Moines Art Center has a reputation as one of the finest modern art museums in the United States.
Salisbury House and Terrace Hill, the home of Iowa's Governor, are two historic houses open to the public for touring. Salisbury House and Terrace Hill appear on the IMT Des Moines Marathon course.
Experience West Des Moines
Want to see how farming in Iowa has changed over the past 100 years? Visit Living History Farms to view a late 19th Century Iowa town and family farm.
If shopping is what you are looking for take a trip to the Historic Valley Junction in West Des Moines for one of a kind shops or visit Valley West Mall and Jordan Creek Town Center with world-class department stores.
Didn't touch on something of interest to you? Email us with what your question or comment. We'd love to hear from you.
