Iowa is a heartland state of rolling prairies, covered bridges, and charming small cities anchored by a surprisingly vibrant Des Moines arts and food scene. Home to the world-famous Iowa State Fair, Grant Wood country, the Field of Dreams movie site, and the historic Amana Colonies, Iowa rewards visitors who look beyond the cornfields to find genuine Midwestern character.
Iowa's nightlife centers on Des Moines and Iowa City. Des Moines has a maturing craft beer and cocktail scene with venues in the East Village, Court Avenue, and Ingersoll Avenue neighborhoods. Iowa City's Ped Mall and nearby streets form a dense bar district energized by University of Iowa students. Cedar Rapids' NewBo district has a growing evening scene. Outside these cities, nightlife options are limited to local bars and occasional live music at county venues.
Nightlife districts
Where the action happens after dark.
Bars & pubs
Where locals drink.
Beechwood Lounge
Known for: Craft cocktails and local beer in a cozy neighborhood setting
2172 NW 86th St, Des Moines, IA 50325
Exile Brewing Company
Known for: Award-winning Iowa craft brewery with rotating taps and excellent bar food
1514 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309
George's Buffet
Known for: Iowa City's oldest bar (1942); cheap beers, pool tables, and no-pretense atmosphere beloved by writers and students
312 Market St, Iowa City, IA 52245
Mickey's Irish Pub
Known for: Traditional Irish pub atmosphere; live music on weekends; large whiskey selection
206 10th St, Des Moines, IA 50309
El Bait Shop
Known for: Over 260 craft beers on tap and in bottles; tackled fishing theme decor; one of the US's best beer bars
200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Shorts Burger & Shine
Known for: Voted best late-night bar in Iowa City; local craft beers, Hawkeye game broadcasts, and moonshine cocktails
18 S Clinton St, Iowa City, IA 52240
Clubs
For dancing into the early hours.
Wooly's
Cover: $10-35 (≈$10-35) depending on artist
Hours: Open on event nights; check woolysdm.com for schedule
The Mill Restaurant
Cover: $5-15 (≈$5-15) for live music nights
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9:00 AM - 2:00 AM
Vaudeville Mews
Cover: $8-20 (≈$8-20)
Hours: Open on event nights only; check vaudevillemews.com
Nightlife tips
Stay safe and have fun.
Most venues warm up after midnight — earlier arrivals get easier entry and shorter queues.
Carry ID, even if you look older — bouncers check at most venues.
Plan your ride home before you go out — last transport runs earlier than the clubs close.