Downtown Farmers Market

The Downtown Farmers Market is the weekend ritual of Des Moines. From spring through autumn, on Saturday mornings, streets in the historic Court District fill with hundreds of vendors selling vegetables, fruit, flowers, cheese, meat, baked goods and crafts. The market is popular with locals and visitors, and it feels like a block party built around food. It is a quick and delicious way to see what Iowa grows and who is making things in the region.\n\nWalk the aisles and you find sweet corn in summer, apples and pumpkins in autumn, early greens in spring and honey, jams, breads and pastries year-round. Street musicians play, food stands sell breakfast burritos, doughnuts and coffee, and local politicians and visitors alike stroll the crowds. Many stalls offer samples, so a morning here can turn into an informal breakfast tour.

Arrive early, around the opening time, if you want first pick and easy parking. By mid-morning the crowds build and the streets become packed. Bring cash and a bag, though many vendors accept cards and mobile payments. Dogs are often present but crowded streets can be hard on pets, so check current rules before bringing one.

\n\nStrollers are common, but the crowds can make movement slow. Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, since the shade is limited. The market runs rain or shine, though weather can reduce vendor numbers. A good approach is to walk the whole route once to see everything and then circle back to buy.

\n\nFood is a highlight. Look for local breads, handmade pastries, farm eggs, fresh cheeses and sausages. Try anything with seasonal fruit, and sample sweet corn when it is in season. If you are staying in a hotel without a kitchen, the market is a fine place to assemble a picnic for the Sculpture Park or the riverfront.

\n\nThe market's dates and hours change slightly from year to year, and a winter market may operate in a different location, so check the schedule before you go. The market is run by a downtown partnership that also hosts other events, including holiday and summer series.

The tourism board website is a good place to confirm current plans. \n\nCombine the market with a walk along the Principal Riverwalk, a visit to the Sculpture Park and lunch on Court Avenue or in the East Village. It makes an easy half-day plan that suits families, couples and solo travelers equally.\n\nCome hungry and plan a route.

Many regulars start at one end with coffee, work through the stalls for fruit, cheese and bread, and finish with a hot breakfast sandwich or pastry from a food stand. Ask vendors about their farms and growing methods, because most are glad to talk, and you may pick up recipe ideas or a recommendation for dinner.

Bring a cooler bag if you will be walking for hours in summer heat, and keep perishable items out of a hot car. Late in the season, look for pumpkins, apples, squash and cider, which give the market an autumn mood.\n\nFinally, remember the neighborhood itself. The Court District has historic brick buildings, bars and restaurants that open for brunch on market days, so you can turn the morning into a full meal and a walk without moving the car.

Locals often meet friends here, which gives the market a friendly, unhurried feel even when it is crowded.