Good morning, Des Moines.

Des Moines’ first-ever board game cafe, The Rook Room—set to offer a restaurant, cafe, bar and events space with over 800 board games and puzzles—will open this spring in downtown after owners Tony Tandeski and Annelise Tarnowski leased the former St. Kilda Cafe and Bakery despite delays in the downstairs construction.

On Thursday afternoon, Des Moines Police responded at 4:25 p.m. in Watrous South to an unknown problem and later encountered a man attacking a woman near S.W.

Ninth Street and Rittenhouse Street, and around 4:35 p.m. during an attempt to detain him the officer fired his handgun, resulting in both him and the suspect being taken to hospital—while the Iowa Department of Public Safety Division of Criminal Investigation leads the review.

One person was injured by gunfire near S.W.

10th Street and Wade Street on March 20th at about 4:30 p.m.—the Des Moines Police Department is investigating the incident and expects an increased police presence.

Adam Shirley of Iowa's County Conservation System said a recent study found outdoor recreation is the state’s top tourism source with $8 billion in annual economic output and $3 billion from parks—remarks made during a Capitol celebration on March 20 where Iowans honored their parks, trails and outdoor spaces.

U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst visited Kemin Industries in Des Moines on Wednesday and held a roundtable with business, education and industry leaders to discuss the need for more STEM guidance.

She introduced a bill to create a national STEM week that will encourage students from every background to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math.

The Polk County Election Office is leaving its historic downtown location for River Place (2309 Euclid Ave) to offer more parking and space for in-person voting.

County officials said the move will happen in late summer (if renovations finish on schedule) to prepare for upcoming elections.

A House bill passed on Wednesday now requires public school districts to let private school students join sports when their schools have not offered the sport for at least the past two school years — covering students living in district or contiguous boundaries — and does not allow charging fees above those for public school athletes.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

This FUNctional fitness class will increase your strength for everyday living!!

Great Train Show 2025

The Great Train Show features a wide array of trains, accessories, and activities for enthusiasts of all ages at the Iowa Events Center.

Great Train Show 2025

The Great Train Show features over 200 tables of trains for sale, large model train displays, and offers free workshops and demonstrations.

Texas Legends vs Iowa Wolves

6:30 PM | Iowa Events Center | Ticket prices vary | Witness the excitement of the NBA G League clash between Texas Legends and Iowa Wolves.

Bowl For Kids' Sake

Bowl for a Cause with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa! Bring your team together for a fun-filled event that supports life-changing mentoring programs while giving your company the spotlight it deserves!

Erma Bombeck: At Wit’s End - A Biographical Play

A heartwarming and humorous play that celebrates the life of renowned humorist Erma Bombeck, highlighting her unique voice as a chronicler of everyday women's experiences.

Trivia Night at Exile Brewing

6-8 p.m. | Exile Brewing Company | Free entry | Come have fun and test your knowledge with a night of trivia.

The Remember Balloons Concert

2-4 p.m. | Des Moines Performing Arts | Ticket details not provided | Experience the vibrant performance of The Remember Balloons in the heart of Des Moines.

Building Show of Iowa

9 AM - 6 PM | Iowa Events Center | Free entry | Connect with local building experts for your remodeling and construction needs.

Senior Living Awards Showcase

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. | 3717 6th Ave, Des Moines | Free entry | Celebrate the best in senior living with awards for meals, activities, and community friendliness.

Crafting for Adults: String Art

3:30-5:00 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Registration recommended — Create a unique string art piece or progress on your current project.