Bring on the hoops–it’s time for March Madness in Des Moines. From frothy beers and savory shareable apps, to premium seating, big screens and private party rooms and buses, check out these five hotspots to watch all the big b-ball action–and see Iowa Hawkeyes’ own Caitlin Clark continue to make history on the court.
For five spots to watch Hawkeyes games,click here.
March 19: Singles March Madness Mixer at BeerStyles Taproom & Gastropub
It’s nothing but net at the Singles March Madness Mixer hosted by Smitten Singles on Tuesday, March 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. Enjoy a casual atmosphere, bar snacks and a selection of more than 100 beers on tap, wine and cocktails. Guests are encouraged to support their favorite team by sporting NCAA team jerseys and themed colors. And who knows, you may just be a winner in more ways than one this March Madness in Des Moines.
Cost: $15.
Tickets: eventbrite.com.
March 21 to March 23: Hoops and Hops
If there ever was a perfect combo for March Madness, it’s basketball and beer. Downtown Des Moines in Cowles Commons will host the seventh-annual Hoops and Hops presented by Willis Nissan. Enjoy all the NCAA Tournament in an oversized heated tent with large-screen televisions, music, food from Big Red Food Truck, 2nd Avenue Sandwiches and Hotsy Totsy, and two basketball courts for when the inspo strikes and you just need your own shootaround. The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day, and all ages are welcome.
Cost: Free.
For more information: desmoinesperformingarts.org.
Johnny’s Hall of Fame
All NCAA tournament long, head to Johnny’s Hall of Fame, the first sports bar in Des Moines (established in 1962!), for game-day action. Enjoy shareable apps, including jalapeno popper dip and pretzel bites, and work your way through menu items named after sports greats, including Hayden fried cheddar nuggets, Warner wings, Dallas Clark rarebit burger and more. Pair your eats with a selection of rotating beers from Iowa-based breweries.
For more information: johnnyshalloffame.com.
Gilroy’s Kitchen
If ice-cold beer and spice-tossed chicken wings are calling your name, head to Gilroy’s Kitchen to watch March Madness in Des Moines. The family-friendly venue offers premium seating and a sports-watching experience for fans of all ages. Enjoy a variety of American game-day grub, including chicken nachos, cheese curds, burgers, cheesesteaks and spinach-artichoke dip. To wash it all down, check out Gilroy’s extensive list of bourbons and rye, signature cocktails and beers on tap.
For more information: gilroyskitchen.com.
The Front Row
Eat, drink and cheer on your favorite teams at The Front Row, a hotspot to watch March Madness in Des Moines. Riding solo? The Front Row is renowned as the premier Hawkeye bar in the state and a hub for sports fans so you’ll be in good company watching the games on over 20 high-definition TVs. With a group? Make it a March Madness to remember by renting a party bus and room.
For more information: frontrowbar.com.