Really cool art-house theater that premiers the latest indie movies and old favorites. For example right now they’re showing Amelie (2001) and the Men Who Stare At Goats. Tickets are $8 so that’s a little less than the chain theaters. Other perks of this theater include their concession stand, immaculately clean facilities, and the kind staff. The lobby’s decorated with old movie posters that add to this theaters ’50-ish, vintage appeal. There's lost of great snacks at the concessions, too.
Things to do
One of the best – most overlooked – places to grab lunch in town. Where else can you chow down on delicious and eclectic food when in the company of groundbreaking 19th and 20th century modern art? The Des Moine Art Center’s modern collection is excellent. It features pivotal works in a variety of mediums by famous names such as Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon, and Jasper Johns. The three-winged building is a sight to see as well. Last but not all, admission is free.
The geodesic dome structure reminds me of something out of the ‘60s psychedelic film Barbarella. It’s pretty amazing. I brought my older family here once and everyone seemed to have an alright time – walking around wasn’t too strenuous and everyone could agree on it being beautiful. Basically what went down was that I kept seeing weird psychedelic images in the flowers and my parents helped my grandparents read the signs. It’s a real utopia in there and at only $4 per ticket you can’t beat it.
Located just outside downtown, Gray’s Lake Park is true Des Moines staple. You can take the Meredith Trail from downtown and enjoy a well-lit, two-mile path with planted flowers all along its way. It’s an excellent urban place for exercise and just another reason I love Des Moines so much (yay for Skywalks!). In the summer the lake’s a real popular attraction for locals who enjoy laying out and swimming. You also can rent paddleboats, hydrobikes, and canoes there.
