Welcome to the Des Moines
Downtown Neighborhood Association
Slide 2
previous arrow
next arrow

We exist to involve neighbors in a collective effort to enhance and celebrate the quality of residential life in downtown Des Moines.

Why should you join the DNA?

  • Enjoy exclusive member benefits and discounts.
  • Be part of a community that’s trying to make downtown Des Moines a great place to live, work and play.
  • Stay informed about issues that affect local residents.
  • Get your voice heard in order to make a real difference.
  • Socialize and network during events at your favorite downtown hotspots, while also supporting those businesses and organizations.

Join Us for These Upcoming Events:

Wednesday, January 29
DNA Annual Meeting

  • Surety Hotel, 206 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
  • 5:30 pm

Join us for the DNA Annual Meeting at the Surety Hotel! We will be voting for board members, reviewing the past year’s accomplishments and hearing from guest speaker Jesse Bunney, General Manager of LawMark Capital about the development at the Financial Center. And members in attendance will be eligible to win a $50 gift certificate to Mulberry Street Tavern, including a free night’s stay at the Surety Hotel, compliments of the Surety Hotel!

Please RSVP on Facebook to let us know how many to expect.

Saturday, September 20
Downtown End of Summer Block Party

  • 2:00 pm to 6:30 pm
  • Hub Spot, 215 Water St, Des Moines, IA 50309

The Downtown End of Summer Block Party is FREE, family friendly and open to the public, so bring a friend or someone who is interested in joining DNA.

  • Free Giveaways: Show your Membership ID and get a FREE DNA shirt and other DNA swag! Anyone can sign up for a membership on the spot and get a FREE DNA shirt while supplies last.
  • Free Raffle Tickets: All DNA members also get a FREE ticket to enter the raffle to win gift cards and merch from our amazing business partners at Full Court Press, Orchestrate Hospitality and Tupelo Honey. Raffle tickets will be on sale for 1 ticket for $1, 6 tickets for $5, or 10 tickets for $8.
  • Live Music: Two local musicians will be bringing the beats: Mike Aceto (2:30-4:30) and Zachary Freedom (5:00-6:00)
  • Food & Beverages: DNA is providing FREE soft drinks and snacks, but why not mix it up and grab something from one of the food trucks on site!
  • DMFD Fire Engine: Don’t miss your chance to explore a real fire engine and meet the firefighters keeping downtown safe!
  • Games Galore: We have games for all ages planned: bags, giant Jenga, giant Connect Four and sidewalk games like water balloon toss.
  • We’ll have vendors on site with clothing, photography, craft kits, art, candles, and more!

Tuesday, November 11th
DNA Tuesday Together

  • The Empire
  • 223 4th St., Des Moines, 50309
  • 5:30 pm

Join us for a relaxed gathering to connect with your neighbors and each other’s company. There’s no fee and no agenda—just a chance to meet new people and chat about what’s happening in our community. Whether you’re new to the neighborhood or a familiar face, everyone is welcome! Light appetizers will be provided with soft drinks and adult beverages available for purchase.

Wednesday, December 3rd
DNA Board Meeting

  • 6:00 – 7:00 PM
  • iSpace Environments
  • 215 Tenth St, Ste 150., Des Moines 50309

We’re trying something new in December! Instead of meeting at the Central Library for a standard monthly meeting, we’re going to be focused on community presentations. iSpace Environments (215 Tenth St, Ste 150) will be hosting us and providing snacks and beverages for attendees to enjoy.

We’ll be discussing the planned demolition of the Brown Garage at 4th and Grand Ave: where they’re at in the process, what the future of the space might be, and any questions attendees may have. Cody Christensen, Development Services Director for the City of Des Moines, will join us and Doug Den Adel from the Graham Group, owners of Brown Garage, has been invited. Please join us!

Minutes and agendas of previous meetings can be found on our website here, and we will post the agenda for the upcoming meeting on our Facebook page when it’s ready.

Wednesday, August 5
Iowa State Fair Parade

  • 5:00 pm
  • West on Grand Ave. from the Iowa State Capitol to 15th St.

Join us as we show our Des Moines pride by carrying our DNA banner in the Iowa State Fair parade. If you’re a member and would like to walk in the parade, contact us for lineup time and location information.

Want to get involved in the downtown Des Moines community?