Gay Bars, Hotels & Venues in Des Moines, IA — 8 LGBTQ+ Spots
Explore 8 LGBTQ+ friendly venues in Des Moines, IA — gay clubs des moines, gay nightlife des moines and more.
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Des Moines, IA has 8 LGBTQ+ friendly venues.
Unlike many cities in this directory, Des Moines' LGBTQ+ scene currently has no listed gay bathhouses, heritage sites, or dedicated arts venues, instead focusing on a practical mix of bars, hotels, and restaurants. Visitors will find a handful of social and accommodation options spread across the city, with the top-rated spot being Blazing Saddle, a bar that earns strong local reviews.
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Blazing Saddle
Blazing Saddle claims the title of Des Moines' longest-running gay bar, open since 1983. It's a leather bar in name, but all are welcome. The vibe is divey, the drinks are cheap and stiff, and the crowd leans local. Patrons report friendly regulars but also occasional rowdy straight groups. Best nights per Yelp are Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. No cover most nights. If you're in the East Village, Buddy's Corral is another option nearby.
The Garden
You might expect a divey video bar, but The Garden throws in a spacious dance floor and house beats. This East Village spot has been under new ownership since 2013, with a revamped drag show lineup on weekends. The bartenders are described as welcoming and polite now, and drink specials run all week. It's a casual, mixed crowd spot where you can catch a show or just dance to the tunes.
Buddy's Corral
Buddy's Corral stands out in Des Moines for its cash only policy and proudly mixed gay-lesbian-straight crowd. This East Village dive bar feels like a neighborhood living room, where jukebox tunes and karaoke set the tone. The bar is open noon to 2am every day, with outdoor seating and a full bar. Service reviews vary, but regulars appreciate the cheap PBRs and relaxed, no frills atmosphere. It's the kind of place you can drop into anytime, especially if you want a genuine local bar without pretense. If the crowd gets too lively, you can always swing next door to Blazing Saddle for a different vibe.
Ritual Cafe
Ritual Cafe is open Monday through Saturday, with hours that accommodate early brunch and lunch crowds. Fondly referred to as the "Girls' Coffee House," it's the only place in Des Moines offering an all-vegetarian menu, featuring hemp nut smoothies and vegan goodies from local bakers. The cafe uses locally roasted organic coffee and has a casual, dog-friendly vibe. It's just behind the city's new sculpture garden. This spot has a chalkboard with an extensive drink list, and staff are happy to make something not listed. Singer/songwriters perform 2-3 nights a week, including a monthly open mic on Thursdays. If you're in the mood for a classic diner experience nearby, Drake Diner is another local option.
Drake Diner
Unlike other diners in Des Moines, Drake Diner brings an upscale 50's diner ambience to your meal. It's been a local landmark since 1987, offering classic American fare like milkshakes and hash browns. The full bar sets it apart from typical diners, and the outdoor seating is dog friendly for your furry companion. You can make reservations to avoid a wait, especially on weekends. The neighborhood spot near Drake University has free wifi and a casual vibe. If you're exploring the area, Ritual Cafe is another nearby option for a different take on American comfort food. Browse photos and reviews.
Shag
Smoke shop meets gay gift store in Des Moines' East Village. Shag (formerly Liberty Gifts) carries t-shirts, incense, body jewelry, and a small adult section. The tagline says it all: 'Everything with a rainbow and some without.' If you're into smoking, there's a nice selection of pipes and related items. They also sell Kratom and CBD supplements. Note that Yelp lists this venue as potentially permanently closed, so call ahead. The vibe is low-key and friendly, with staff known for being helpful. It's small but packed with fun finds, from men's underwear to rainbow gear. Open daily from 10am to 9pm (except Sunday at 12pm-6pm). Parking is street-based in the East Village.
Embassy Suites On The River
Capital City Pride's Ed Fouts calls this all-suite riverfront hotel 'a friendly place to stay' near East Village and the Iowa state Capitol. Guest reviews praise its value and customer service. The venue also offers meeting/event and wedding services, with amenities like a Sunday brunch.
Renaissance Savery Hotel
Yelp reviewers give the Renaissance Savery Hotel 3.5 stars across 122 reviews, noting its historic charm and central location. This 12-story downtown hotel sits right next to the Civic Center, making it a top pick for theatergoers and convention attendees. You'll find urban-inspired rooms, a swimming pool, and an Italian restaurant on the property. The vibe is mixed gay and straight, welcoming all guests. The hotel runs 24 hours a day, confirmed by Yelp's overnight schedule. Its position on 4th Street puts you near the river and downtown nightlife. Need a room after a late show? No problem here. Check ratings and hours.
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What People Are Saying
“Terrible Bar”
I was visiting Des Moines and heard this was the spot to go, even though everyone said all the gay bars were bad. I don't usually believe that because people often think their local bars are lousy. Well, they were correct! It felt like all the masculinity had been drained out of the place. On Saturday and Sunday, the only people there were queens. I doubt they even check IDs, since some of these guys (using the term very loosely) acted like they were 15. On Sunday, besides the queens, there were several drunk straight guys. Don't get me wrong, I like a drunk straight guy now and then, but not these ones. They were way too drunk and way too obnoxious. Save yourself the trouble and don't go.
A local visitor on Blazing Saddle
“should be called ghost town instead of garden..”
The same music has been playing for the past 8 years. Last time I visited was in 2009 and it was dead on a weekend in March. There's only one bartender who is personable and well-mannered; the others are terrible, especially one woman who only caters to her own group and ignores you. The bar now caters more to straight people than gays, which is a shame. The drag shows are bad, and I will never go back to what was once my favorite bar.
A recent visitor on The Garden
“one word to describe this place BORING”
I went there about five times and never again. It's also overrun by straight people. I think there's a conspiracy that straights are taking over gay spaces to push us out. If I opened a gay bar, it would be gays only, no straights allowed. It's bad enough I have to live around them; going out and being around them is unbearable. But Buddy's is a dive, and bar service gets worse as more customers arrive. They care more about money than treating regulars with respect. I haven't set foot in that place since 2007 and never will. I don't party in Podunk DSM at all anymore because of the bullshit. There's too much cliquishness, nobody is nice, and it smells like bad body odor even with the doors open.
A local visitor on Buddy's Corral
Cheese frenchies are the best! Friendly staff, perfect for a date, and delicious food.
A visitor on Drake Diner
Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
How many LGBTQ+ venues are listed in Des Moines?
Des Moines has 8 LGBTQ+ venues listed in our directory.
I'm looking for a bar or a place to stay in Des Moines—what options are available?
Des Moines' listed venues are primarily bars, hotels, and restaurants. For a night out, Blazing Saddle is the highest-rated bar (4.1 stars). For lodging, you'll find two hotels in the mix. There are no gay bathhouses, heritage sites, or dedicated arts venues listed.
Is Des Moines a welcoming city for LGBTQ+ visitors?
Yes, Des Moines has a visible LGBTQ+ scene with several bars, hotels, and restaurants listed. The top-rated venue, Blazing Saddle, is a well-reviewed bar that signals an active social scene. While smaller than some major metros, the options available cover socializing and accommodation needs.