Best Places in Des Moines for Al Fresco Dining

There are so many great places in Des Moines to eat outside.

If you’re feeling you need to enjoy a patio other than your own, we’ve gathered a few of our favorite patios around Des Moines to make your planning a bit easier. Whether you want a friendly-family patio or you’re planning a date night, these top outdoor dining options in Des Moines will help you enjoy nice views and fresh air with your meal!

// RECOMMENDED READ 10 Best Patios for Drinks //

Moms Night Out Patio

What: Eatery A

Where: Ingersoll, Des Moines

Why: Eatery A is your Des Moines destination for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Perfecting simple dishes that focus on local, quality ingredients. With a great happy hour featuring half-price pizza, wine, and beer, this is sure to be a fun time for your next mom’s night out! 

Family-Friendly Patio

What: Smash Park 

Where: Jordan Creek, West Des Moines 

Why: If the kids have energy to burn and you have no energy to cook, head out and enjoy some fun and games at Smashpark. Play a little Pickleball and take the time to enjoy gathering with family and friends in an environment made for playing.

Most Unique Patio

What: The Hall + The Foundry

Where: Valley Junction, West Des Moines

Why: There’s nothing else quite like this in the metro. Not quite an outdoor patio, not quite an indoor restaurant, The Hall DSM at The Foundry is a giant beer hall serving delicious drinks and a mouthwatering array of grub from local food trucks.

Rooftop Patio

What: The Dam Pub 

Where: Beaverdale, Des Moines

Why: Enjoy an intimate dinner or a night out with family and friends for drinks on the rooftop overlooking historic charm of the neighborhood. If heights aren’t your thing, enjoy the fresh air on the Dam Pub patio that spills out onto Beaver Avenue. The menu boasts creative takes on pub fare and are bound to please all who venture into this new establishment. 

Downtown Patio

What: The Rooftop

Where: East Village, Des Moines

Why: Grab your heels for a night on the town as you enjoy this alfresco patio bar located atop Happy Burrito. Soak in the downtown views, swanky menu, and an extensive wine and drink selection.

Riverside Patio

What:  Mullets

Where: Across from Principal Park, Des Moines

Why: The two-tiered patio at Mullets boasts scenic views of downtown as well as the Des Moines River. This riverside roadhouse doesn’t take itself too seriously and offers American fare at decent prices. Stop here before or after an I-Cubs game or in the middle of a long day on the bike trail!

Enclosed Patio

What: Drake Diner

Where: Drake Neighborhood, Des Moines

Why: The Drake Diner has been a Des Moines landmark since its opening in 1987. This classic diner has hosted many celebrities and politicians passing through Des Moines. Enjoy a stack of their mouthwatering pancakes in the enclosed patio. (This choice is family-friendly, too!)

Western Suburbs Patio

What: Gilroy’s Kitchen + Pub + Patio

Where: West Des Moines

Why: Wrapping the entire east and south side of Gilroy’s looking out onto West Des Moines’ historic 8th Street, this patio includes a full-service staff. Enjoy the live music series on Wednesday nights from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and relax with one of Gilroy’s famous Moscow Mules.

Best for Biking Patio 

What: The Chicken 

Where: Orilla Rd., West Des Moines

Why: The Chicken is a classic roadhouse joint in the Des Moines metro just south of the Highway 5 Bypass in what was once Orilla, Iowa. Located right off the Great Western bike trail, it’s the perfect stop mid-ride. Their menu has something for everyone, serving southern chicken specialties. 

What are your favorite patios in Des Moines?

We work hard to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information before heading to a restaurant, since things may change.