Livable 515

05/29/2026

What fun -

☀️🍻 Patio season is officially ON!

Looking for a fun way to kick off your Friday afternoons this summer?

The Summer Patio Tour Series returns with stops at some of Des Moines' best patios, featuring:
🎶 Live broadcasts from Nash FM
🍹 Drink specials & sampling
🎟️ Post Malone & Jelly Roll ticket giveaways
👕 Free commemorative t-shirts for the first 30 attendees
🎁 Grand prize package worth chasing all summer long

Stops include:
🍺 el Bait Shop
🍕 Fong's Pizza
🍻 The Iowa Taproom
🐔 The Chicken Orilla
🇮🇪 Royal Mile
🥨 Hessen Haus..and more!

Many of these Full Court Press establishments have been longtime BIKEIOWA supporters, helping fuel Iowa's cycling community for nearly two decades.

👉 Check out the full schedule:
https://www.bikeiowa.com/Feature/2138/summer-patio-tour-series

Ride. Stay. Play. Then grab a patio seat. 😎

05/26/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17VrPf1atQ/

Save the date! Join us at the Iowa State Capitol on Friday July 3 for our annual Yankee Doodle Pops! Learn more about the concert at bit.ly/2026-yankee-doodle-pops! 🎆🇺🇸

05/26/2026

Summer 2026 - Free Outdoor Music Events -

If you're looking to enjoy the outdoors and some live music in summer 2026, central Iowa has plenty of outdoor concert series — and many are free.

05/15/2026

Be there -

04/29/2026

Central Iowa riders, the Des Moines Mayor's Annual Ride is this weekend! Join in the fun and help support Des Moines area trails.

https://www.dsm.city/departments/parks_recreation/activities/special_events/mayors_ride.php

04/28/2026

A transformational investment in the near north side - WTG City of Des Moines - Government. Mayor & City Council! https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18kNy6JqEZ/

The Des Moines City Council has approved a $54 million plan to revamp Birdland Park and Marina, bringing new recreational facilities and upgrades to the historic site.

04/18/2026

Thank you Jeremy Lewis for all you’ve accomplished helping to create a more livable and age-friendly greater

Last Friday we said goodbye to our beloved Jeremy Lewis. During his 12 years of devoted service, he grew our programs and expanded our reach with heart, strategy, and clear-eyed vision. His impact on the sector was immortalized by MPO's new data bikes, named "Jeremy" and "Lewis." Thank you for your service, Jeremy!

Photo courtesy of Carol Maher

02/26/2026

Excellent Opportunity for a talented young person .

https://www.facebook.com/share/1DDCu6j5cP/?mibextid=wwXIfr

AARP is hiring a Livable Communities Intern (May start) in Des Moines, Iowa. Review all of the job details and apply today!

02/12/2026

As people age, their housing needs change based on such factors as household composition, caregiving responsibilities, finances and mobility. Yet in many US communities, housing options remain limited.

This Housing for All Ages infographic illustrates how a range of housing options can respond to these evolving housing needs. Using one family’s experience, the infographic highlights the importance of expanding housing choices—from accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and duplexes to multifamily and senior housing—to strengthen housing supply, promote age-friendly communities, and ensure residents can remain connected to family, services, and opportunity as they age.

https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/ppi/topics/livable-communities/housing/housing-for-all-ages.doi.10.26419-2fppi.00387.001.pdf

Livable 515

02/11/2026

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1325513242954302&id=100064869153722

✨ Dome After Dark at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Every Friday evening from January through late March, the tropical conservatory and beautifully updated Gardeners Show House glow with soft lights, lush plants, and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for both family outings and cozy date nights.

Whether you’re in Des Moines for the weekend or planning a winter road trip stop, this warm, glowing oasis in the heart of the city is a can’t-miss seasonal favorite.

📍Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
📍 909 Robert D. Ray Dr, Des Moines, IA 50309
🗓️ Fridays, Jan–Mar • 6–10 pm
🎟️ Tickets available online or at the door (members get discounts!)