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Top Picks for Des Moines Rehearsal Dinner Venues for Your Perfect Iowa Wedding Celebration

Writer's picture: The Team at The VineyardThe Team at The Vineyard

Planning a rehearsal dinner can be just as thrilling as getting ready for the wedding day. In Des Moines, couples can choose from a rich variety of unique and charming venues. Each location offers its own special atmosphere and delicious cuisine, allowing you to create an unforgettable gathering for family and friends. Whether you want something cozy or grand, you'll find the perfect spot for your rehearsal dinner in the Des Moines metro area.



The Machine Shed is a well-loved local chain offering a rustic ambiance and hearty comfort food. Located just outside Des Moines in Urbandale, this venue is ideal for gathering your loved ones before the big day.


The restaurant offers private and semi-private dining options that can host groups ranging from 20 to 100 guests. Guests can enjoy classic menu items like succulent prime rib, savory chicken served with homemade sauces, and a variety of seasonal sides made with fresh, local ingredients.


Machine shed, urbandale

The dedicated staff ensures each dinner is personalized, going the extra mile to meet your specific needs and create lasting memories.


The Des Moines Art Center


For couples seeking a distinctive venue, the Des Moines Art Center adds a cultural touch to your rehearsal dinner. This location is more than just a dining spot; it puts you in the midst of art and creativity.


The center has several private event spaces, including gorgeous gardens and modern indoor areas, creating a stunning backdrop for your special evening. You can enjoy a delightful four-course meal crafted with seasonal ingredients, appealing to a variety of palates.


This venue is perfect for those wanting to blend fine dining with artistic flair, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone.


Exile Brewing Company


If craft beer and a lively setting appeal to you and your partner, Exile Brewing Company is a fantastic pick. This brewery offers a casual and vibrant environment, perfect for a fun rehearsal dinner.


Exile's spacious event area can accommodate larger groups with ease. Their menu features an array of delicious appetizers, pizzas, and entrees, all made fresh in-house. Plus, the brewery’s selection of house-brewed beers can keep everyone refreshed.


Exile Des Moines
Prominent brewing kettles at Exile Brewing Company showcasing craft beer production.

Exile Brewing Company is great for those looking to foster a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere among friends and family.


801 Chophouse


Couples who desire an elegant dining experience should consider 801 Chophouse. This venue is celebrated for its upscale atmosphere and top-quality steaks, ensuring that your guests leave impressed.


The sleek design, coupled with attentive service, creates a stylish and enjoyable dining experience. With multiple private dining options able to hold anywhere from 10 to 60 guests, you can customize your gathering to reflect your desires.


This restaurant is ideal for couples seeking a fine dining experience that elevates the traditional rehearsal dinner.


Eateries on the East Village


The East Village area is known for its colorful mix of restaurants. This trendy neighborhood offers many dining options with delicious cuisines and lively atmospheres. Consider eateries like Tasty Taco, where you can grab flavorful Mexican bites, or Fong’s Pizza, known for their unique take on classic dishes.


Choosing a restaurant in the East Village provides a more casual rehearsal dinner where guests can mingle and enjoy quality time. Each restaurant features menus accommodating various tastes and dietary needs, providing a practical option for diverse guests.


The RiverWalk


For couples seeking a scenic venue, the RiverWalk area boasts numerous charming establishments along the water. Many restaurants offer outdoor dining with beautiful views of the Des Moines River, setting a picturesque scene.


Hosting your rehearsal dinner here not only enhances the ambiance but also creates fantastic opportunities for photographs. With a romantic and laid-back atmosphere, this setting is perfect for couples who want to embrace nature on their special day.


The Bridge


Another flexible option is The Bridge, which offers stunning views of Des Moines with both indoor and outdoor setups. You can customize the layout to suit either a formal sit-down dinner or a cocktail-style reception.


The Bridge features a remarkable menu focused on local Iowa ingredients, ensuring your guests enjoy a delicious and memorable meal.


Wrapping Up Your Rehearsal Dinner Venue Search


Des Moines presents countless options for a memorable rehearsal dinner. From the rustic charm of The Machine Shed to the artistic ambiance at the Des Moines Art Center, there's a venue for every couple's style.


When planning your Iowa wedding celebration, think about what atmosphere and dining experience work best for you. Selecting the right venue helps set the stage for an unforgettable evening filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments. Happy planning!



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Thank you for stopping by our blog! We hope that you will consider hiring a locally owned wedding venue for your big celebration. Locally owned wedding venues provide the best wedding experience, they tend to have little to no turnover, they support the local economy and they are part of the community. Choosing a locally owned wedding venue means the world to our small owned wedding venues. In an effort to support locally owned wedding venues, we will feature five small business wedding venues in each of our blogs. 

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