The Downtown Des Moines Farmers Market shouldn’t be written off as somewhere to only buy produce or just a place for locals. Market visitors can indulge in a wide selection of handmade and homegrown items fresh from the Iowa farms while they enjoy music plus the sights and sounds of one of the greatest farmers markets in the country.
For the last ten years I’ve been one of the thousands of regular visitors who stroll around the Historic Court Avenue District munching on delicious pastries and other prepared onsite goodies as I peruse the endless stock of fresh produce, flowers, plants, eggs, Iowa wines, cheeses, meats, baked goods, crafts…I could keep going, but I’ll let you be surprised on your visit.
The market is over 11 blocks and set up laid out like a giant # mark so wear your walking shoes. And you’ll want to visit every corner because no two vendors are alike. A variety of entertainers are set-up around the market to enjoy as well. When you need a rest there are plenty of benches and tables set-up, but they go fast. You can also pop in to one of the local restaurants for breakfast or lunch and enjoy a little people watching while you dine. Plenty of restaurants in the district offer patio seating which is perfect on a warm summer morning.
The market is open from 7 am to Noon every Saturday, rain or shine, from May to October. Get there early if you want to indulge in one of their famous breakfast burritos or breakfast pizza and be prepared for a line, but don’t worry, it moves pretty fast. The Downtown Des Moines Farmers Market is the perfect place to get together with friends, relax and enjoy summer in the city.
Colleen Murphy, Iowa Tourism Office
3 comments:
I agree, this market is one of the best!
I had always been to a farmers market and when you hear those words you think ok, maybe 15-20 vendors selling fruits and vegetables. I WAS WRONG!! This is like a small fair that takes up 5 blocks on downtown des moines! I will be making plans to go back a couple times this summer! And get there EARLY!!!
Colleen you are so right! I had heard so much about Des Moines Farmers Market - including your post - that my husband and I went there last weekend. We spent the night downtown , had a wonderful dinner and woke early to attend the market. What an event! Music everywhere, amazing produce, as well as special items. We bought steak knives made in Iowa, yard art, as well as produce...and of course a yummy breakfast! If you haven't been yet to the Des Moines Farmers Market...make it a great overnight getaway.
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