Top 7 Breweries in Des Moines, IA

Top breweries

#1 - Confluence Brewing Company

Located just south of downtown Des Moines near Gray's Lake, Confluence Brewing Company offers a spacious taproom with both indoor and outdoor seating. The brewery is known for its 'Beer-A-Week' initiative, releasing new beers weekly alongside their annual favorites. Their outdoor beer garden and deck are dog-friendly, and there's ample bike parking with access off the Gray’s Lake bike trail. Food trucks often visit the venue, offering a variety of food options to complement the beer selection. Confluence Brewing Company has been recognized for its quality craft beers, earning accolades such as 'Best Local Craft Beer' in CITYVIEW’s Best Of Des Moines poll for 2022.

Source

#2 - Big Grove Brewery & Taproom

Brewery · $$

Located in Des Moines' Sherman Hill neighborhood, Big Grove Brewery & Taproom offers a spacious patio with covered seating and fire pits, ideal for both warm and cool evenings. The menu features a variety of craft beers and a selection of prepared foods. Notably, the brewery has achieved platinum certification from the Iowa Green Brewery Certification program, reflecting its commitment to sustainable practices.

Source

#3 - Lua Brewing

Brewery · $$

Located in Des Moines' Sherman Hill neighborhood, Lua Brewing is a microbrewery and restaurant known for its industrial-chic ambiance and spacious outdoor patio. Their menu features standout items like the Smushburger and a variety of craft beers, including sours and IPAs. In 2025, they were named the best brewpub in the United States by USA TODAY.

SingleSpeed Brewing Co - DSM TapRoom photo

Source

#4 - SingleSpeed Brewing Co - DSM TapRoom

Brewery · $$

Located at 303 Scott Avenue, SingleSpeed Brewing Co's Des Moines taproom offers a spacious indoor area and a sizable outdoor patio adjacent to the bike trail, making it a popular spot for cyclists. The menu features unique items like the vegetarian Reuben with pastrami-flavored cured beets and a variety of house-brewed beers. The industrial-chic space, formerly a tire shop, has been thoughtfully renovated to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company photo

Source

#5 - Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company

Brewery · $$

Nestled in the historic Saddlery Building, this Des Moines staple has been brewing its own beers since 1996. The space boasts high ceilings, exposed brick, and a brewing area visible through glass, offering a cozy yet upscale vibe. Their menu features American-style dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and locally inspired fare. For those seeking non-alcoholic options, they also craft their own sodas using all-natural ingredients like locally sourced Iowa honey.

Source

#6 - Exile Brewing Company

Brewery · $

Located in a repurposed early 20th-century warehouse, Exile Brewing Company offers a rustic yet modern atmosphere with exposed brick walls and industrial elements. Their beer selection ranges from sours to lagers, brewed with high-quality ingredients and a creative spirit. The menu features pub classics like Chicken Spiedini and Meatball Sub, designed to complement their house-made beers. The spacious beer hall and adjoining beer garden provide ample seating, making it a popular spot for both casual lunches and evening gatherings. A standout feature is the rooftop artwork—a life-size replica of the Statue of Liberty's copper crown—adding a unique touch to the venue.

Source

#7 - Twisted Vine Brewery

Brewery · $$

Located in Des Moines' East Village, Twisted Vine Brewery occupies a restored 150-year-old warehouse, blending industrial charm with modern comforts. The spacious taproom features reclaimed wood and brick vaults, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. An expansive 5,000 sq ft outdoor patio offers ample space for gatherings, with picnic-style seating and views of the Iowa Capitol. The brewery crafts a variety of beers on-site, including popular selections like Bob’s Ale and Westown IPA. For non-beer drinkers, options such as cider, root beer, and local canned wines are available. While food offerings are limited, plans for frozen pizzas and snacks are in the works. The venue is pet and child-friendly, making it a versatile spot for all.

Explore more in Des Moines, IA

Explore by vibe

Rooftops in Des Moines, IA Dive bars in Des Moines, IA Cocktail bars in Des Moines, IA Night clubs in Des Moines, IA Speakeasies in Des Moines, IA Pubs in Des Moines, IA Breweries in Des Moines, IA Sports bars in Des Moines, IA Romantic Bars in Des Moines, IA Bars With 20s Crowd in Des Moines, IA Classy Bars in Des Moines, IA Fun Bars in Des Moines, IA Bars With 30s Crowd in Des Moines, IA Cozy Bars in Des Moines, IA Dance Bars in Des Moines, IA Bars For Groups in Des Moines, IA Live Music Bars in Des Moines, IA Bars For A First Date in Des Moines, IA Bars For A Date Night in Des Moines, IA Bars For A Girls Night in Des Moines, IA Bars For A Guys Night in Des Moines, IA Bars For After Work in Des Moines, IA Cheap Bars in Des Moines, IA Bars With No Cover Charge in Des Moines, IA Bars With Outdoor Seating in Des Moines, IA Bars With A Patio in Des Moines, IA Bars With A View in Des Moines, IA Bars With Dance Floors in Des Moines, IA Bars With DJs in Des Moines, IA Bars With Games in Des Moines, IA Busiest Bars in Des Moines, IA