A wide shot of the vibrant, multi-colored "Dogtown" mural with people enjoying the outdoor patio space in front of it.
Destination Dogtown

Sit, Stay, and Play in the Drake Neighborhood

Whether you visit Des Moines once a year for Relays or live nearby, chances are there’s something new in the Drake neighborhood since your last trip. Warmly known as ‘Dogtown,’ the revitalized entertainment district has a little something for everyone.
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For the Music Lover

Fuel up with a meal at Lucky Horse Beer and Burgers, the site of the former Crazyhorse Guitars shop. While you’re there, don’t forget to snap a picture with the Dogtown mural on their patio to commemorate the day!
A shot of a live musical performance. This venue is a centerpiece of the local arts scene, known for its intimate atmosphere and professional production.
Afterward, enjoy Des Moines’ vibrant music scene with a concert at xBk Live. The 250-capacity venue has shows across nearly every genre—from metal to folk, and electronic to indie—offering something for every kind of listener, with ticket prices as low as $15.
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For Family Friendly Fun

Start your trip to Dogtown with a visit to Dough Co. Pizza for a meal the whole family will love. Split a classic like pepperoni or sausage on their New York-style thin crust or let everyone pick what they like with build-your-own super slices.
The iconic Art Deco facade of the renovated historic theater on 25th Street, which serves as a hub for film lovers in Des Moines.
Next, catch the latest films at The Varsity Cinema. Newly renovated and reopened in late 2022, the two-theater venue offers screenings in the comfort of a historic setting. For just $9 a month, locals can join the family membership and enjoy discounted tickets, free popcorn refills, and members-only invitations.
A close-up of the Drake University Bulldog mascot (Griff) interacting with young fans, highlighting the family-friendly "Drake Hoops" culture.
Finally, support your hometown team at a Bulldog athletic event. For families with children in 8th grade or below, join Spike’s Kids Club presented by Kwik Trip. This free membership gives your kids admission to select Kids Club Days for Drake football, volleyball, and men’s and women’s basketball, plus members-only giveaways. Not to mention, free admission to all men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s tennis, and softball games.
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For the Culture Connoisseur

The interior of the neighborhood coffee shop, showing the menu boards, coffee counter, and seating area where students and locals gather.
Start your visit with a trip to Mars Cafe, a galactic-inspired third-wave coffeehouse offering some of Des Moines’ best specialty brews. While you enjoy your drink and take in the rotating local art on the walls, consider a sweet detour next door—Drake Diner’s classic milkshakes are always worth the stop.

Afterward, venture over to one of Dogtown’s newest businesses, Nos Books, and browse their meticulously curated collection of diverse reads. Spanish for ‘us,’ the family-owned bookstore celebrates the stories honoring our unique pasts and collective futures.

An interior view of this stylish, moody cocktail bar. It’s a popular local "hidden gem" known for its creative drink menu and mid-century aesthetic.
For dinner, indulge in the rich tastes of Italy, Lebanon, Turkey, and the Balkans at Hugo’s Wood Fired Kitchen. Explore bold flavors paired with refreshing seasonal cocktails as you unwind with friends. For a bonus, book a reservation on their spacious patio for Wine-Down Wednesday, when all bottles are half-price.

End the evening with a theatre performance, classical concert, or gallery exhibition through Drake’s Fine Arts program. Many events are free or affordably priced, making it easier than ever to support emerging student artists as they showcase their world-class talents. With events happening regularly during the school year, be sure to check their calendar to see what’s on.

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For the Sports Fanatic

front of the University Library Cafe
Get in the team spirit with a craft beer and award-winning nachos at the University Library Cafe. A staple of the neighborhood for decades, this cozy, around-the-corner bar is the perfect old-school throwback.
An aerial/exterior view of the athletic facility where the Drake Bulldogs play their home basketball and volleyball games.
Cheer on your hometown team at one of Drake’s many sporting venues. Head to Drake Stadium for a Bulldog football game and root for the 2024 Pioneer Football League Champions. Or, visit the area’s newest facility, Mediacom Stadium, for men’s and women’s soccer. Prefer to be indoors? Catch a volleyball or basketball game at the Knapp Center. No matter the sport, there’s no shortage of school spirit.

Spotlight on Dogtown Business Owners

Alec Davis headshot
Alec Davis, Co-Owner, Dough Co. Pizza

Why Dogtown: “We knew that Drake was trying to change its stance towards the neighborhood and really be more of a community partner and invest in projects and support businesses. We felt the potential. The eastern part of campus is now becoming kind of the cultural and economic center of the neighborhood again, and we’re right at the heart of that. So we’re happy to do our part to help grow that.”

A staff member wearing a "Dough Co." shirt holding a fresh, hand-tossed pizza, showcasing one of the area's favorite casual eats.
Drake Connection: Despite not being Drake alumni, Davis and his co-owners feel a close connection to the University. The business regularly supports student fundraisers and has also partnered with the athletics department through NIL deals.

“We just happen to be people who really like being close to the University and have kind of adopted Drake as a home school for us,” said Davis.

Go-to menu item: Pepperoni Popper

Jeff Bruning headshot
Jeff Bruning, Owner, Lucky Horse Burgers & Beer and University Library Cafe

Why Dogtown: “I live in the neighborhood and know people at the University. I want to be part of the neighborhood and to be that place that people think of as, ‘Well, we’re going to be in town, where do you want to meet up?’ I hope that Lucky Horse continues to come up in that conversation.”

The storefront of the restaurant located on University Ave, known for its patio and classic American fare.
Drake Connection: Lucky Horse partnered with Drake’s Marketing Management course in the spring to host a community “Crafts and Craft Beer” event held on their patio.

“You actually have to engage with your fellow citizens and the community, and this was a really good event to do that,” said Bruning.

Go-to menu item: The Dogtown Burger or Italian Flatbread paired with a Frozen Old Fashioned

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