Timeline
16:24
Grab a coffee and settle in at Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure. The space features local art and offers a calm spot to prepare for the walk. It is open from 07:00 to 21:00 on weekdays, so it is ready for you an hour before sunset.
16:54
Walk to the Chamberlain House, also known as West Chester. This Jacobethan Revival building designed by William George Rantoul stands as a solid example of historic architecture in the city. Arrive here just before the sun begins its final descent.
17:09
Head to Pappajohn Sculpture Park. As the sun sets toward the WSW, the light catches the sculptures and the Western Gateway Park grounds. This urban revitalization centerpiece is the perfect place to watch the sky change color.
17:39
Dinner at Centro. After the light fades, head to this Italian restaurant nearby for coal-fired pizzas. They specialize in martinis and serve dinner until 22:00 on weekdays, making it a reliable spot for an evening meal.
18:24
End the night at Exile Brewing Company. This brewpub and microbrewery in a historic warehouse offers a casual atmosphere with an outdoor patio. It is open until 22:00, allowing time for a final drink before the evening closes.
Local tip
The walk from the Chamberlain House to the sculpture park takes about 40 minutes. If you want to keep the evening short, take a taxi or rideshare from the landmark to the park to arrive right at sunset.
Check before you go
- Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure is open until 21:00 on weekdays.
- Centro is open for dinner until 22:00 on weekdays.
- Exile Brewing Company is closed on Mondays.
- Check the route for the walk from the Chamberlain House to the sculpture park if you prefer not to walk the full distance.
Worth knowing
- Exile Brewing Company is open at 18:24 only on Tu, We, Th, Fr, Sa, Su
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Des Moines (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).