The 5 Best Small Live Music Venues in Des Moines

A wonderful advantage to living at your Springs Apartment Home in Des Moines is the access to local, live music in the area. The numerous options and venues provide something for everyone, but which places are the best? Here are our top five picks for small live music venues in Des Moines.

1. Gas Lamp
1501 Grand Ave, Des Moines
515.280.3778
12 miles from Springs at Jordan Creek

If you are in the mood for some local, live music then check out Gas Lamp. Open Tuesdays – Sundays, they offer a unique mix of live music in a vintage-style neighborhood venue. They have a designated parking lot but there is plenty of street parking, too. This is a great place to hear everything from Americana to reggae, so check their upcoming shows and times before you head out.

2. Noce Jazz Cabaret
1326 Walnut St, Des Moines
515.770.4210
13 miles from Springs at Jordan Creek

Feeling jazzy? Step into the beautiful Noce Jazz Cabaret and enjoy everything from jazz soloists to big band to show tunes. Order a cocktail from their jazz-age inspired bar and then enjoy the music in one of the 100 seats in the venue. When you want something extra special, book VIP tickets to get up-front seating and complimentary champagne. Showtimes vary based on the performance schedule, but remember 21 and over only after 9 p.m.

3. Wooly's
504 E Locust St, Des Moines
515.214.0550
16 miles from Springs at Waukee

Whether you’re in the mood for country or hard rock, Wooly's offers a colorful mix of artists and genres. Tickets can be purchased with cash only at the box office or online with a credit card. Call ahead and reserve a booth for parties up to six. Although under 21 shows are common, Wooly's isn't recommended for children.

4. Vaudeville Mews
212 4th St, Des Moines
515.243.3270
15 miles from Springs at Waukee

Offering a wide-range of live music almost nightly, Vaudeville Mews is sure to satisfy any music craving. Open 5 p.m. until 1:30 a.m. daily, there is a full bar, upstairs seating and a patio area. Showtimes vary based on the artist, so check their event schedule for times and ticket sales. Capacity is 230 people so it can get crowded for an in-demand show.

5. Inspired Grounds Cafe
117 5th St, West Des Moines
515.633.2326
7 miles from Springs at Jordan Creek

Feel free to bring the kids along to Inspired Grounds Cafe to enjoy a variety of food, drinks and live music. Check out their Facebook page to keep up to date with events ranging from live acoustic musicians to poetry nights, and if you have the urge to burst into song, don’t miss out on their open mic nights. If the little ones get bored, there are books and games to keep them happy while you sit back and enjoy. Inspired Grounds closes at 5 p.m. most days, but remains open until 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

After heading out to enjoy Des Moines live music, make sure to let us know which venue is your favorite!