Experience · Des Moines
Sherman Hill Art & Elegant Dinner
Begin your date night with an aperitif at a chic lounge before immersing yourselves in the arts at Hoyt Sherman Place, an exquisite 19th-century manor. Conclude the evening with an upscale American dining experience, perfect for conversation and connection.
A 4-hour Des Moines evening plan for couples — Hello, Marjorie, Living History Farms, Mars Cafe.
- Duration
- 4 hrs
- Cost
- $100–$200
- Stops
- 3 stops
- Area
- Downtown Des Moines + 1 more
- Walking
- Light walking · Total 14.1-mile driving route
- Best time
- 5:00 – 10:00 PM
- Ideal for
- Couples · Solo
The plan
The plan
- 1Hello, Marjorie(45 min)→
- 2Living History Farms(1 hr 30 min)→
- 3Mars Cafe(30 min)
Why this plan works
The stops span roughly 14.1 miles across Des Moines, so plan on driving — the order below keeps that driving in one direction. Living History Farms is the main event and takes the biggest block of time; the other stops are built around it. It finishes at Mars Cafe — a short, low-effort stop you can skip if you're ready to call it. Best suited to couples and solo who want a planned Des Moines outing without improvising between stops.
The story
Overview
Begin your date night with an aperitif at a chic lounge before immersing yourselves in the arts at Hoyt Sherman Place, an exquisite 19th-century manor. Conclude the evening with an upscale American dining experience, perfect for conversation and connection.
The itinerary
3 stops, one great day
- 145 minHello, Marjorie
Nightlife · Downtown Des Moines
Creative cocktails, craft beer & wine served in a chill space decorated like a '70s-era living room.
What to do — Start your evening at Hello, Marjorie with a handcrafted cocktail or mocktail, enjoying the unique ambiance.
7.7 mi · 20 min drive
Then Drive a short distance west to Hoyt Sherman Place.
21h 30mLiving History FarmsArts & Culture
Iowa farming-history exhibits on a 500-acre site with an 1875 village & educational programs.
What to do — Check the schedule for a performance or exhibition at Hoyt Sherman Place and immerse yourselves in the cultural offerings. Allow time to admire the historic mansion itself.
Scout Side QuestPick your favorite piece of historic decor and make your case for why it belongs in your living room.
6.4 mi · 17 min drive
Then Short hop over to Mars Cafe.
3Optional 30 minMars CafeFood & Drink · Drake Park
Space-themed artisanal coffeehouse featuring panini, soups, desserts, wine & beer, plus local art.
What to do — Split something sweet at Mars Cafe to end the night.
Scout Side QuestSplit a treat, then take turns rating it out of ten on three ridiculous, made-up categories.
Scout Stories
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The route
On the map
Common questions
Planning this outing
- Is this a good Des Moines itinerary for couples?
- Yes. It's built for couples and solo and runs about 4 hrs across 3 stops, starting at Hello, Marjorie.
- How long does this outing take?
- Plan on 4 hrs door to door, including time between stops.
- How much does this Des Moines itinerary cost?
- Roughly $100–$200 per person, before parking and tips. Free and low-cost stops are marked on each card.
- Is this itinerary walkable?
- Not entirely. The stops cover about 14.1 miles, so you'll drive or rideshare between at least one pair.
- Do I need reservations?
- No. Every stop on this plan takes walk-ins, though weekends move faster if you arrive early.
Keep exploring
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Different moods, same city.
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- Cost
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- Duration
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- Cost
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- Ideal for
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Date NightDes MoinesSherman Hill Arts & Drinks DateBegin your date with cocktails and shared plates in a stylish setting before heading to the historic Hoyt Sherman Place for a captivating performance. Conclude the evening with a nightcap at a chic downtown lounge.
- Duration
- 3h 40m
- Cost
- $70–$150
- Ideal for
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