Live Music Venues in Des Moines You Should Check Out

Music is an entertainment form that transcends age, language and lifestyle. It can lift you up and put a bounce in your step no matter what mood you're in. Many a friendship has been forged over little more than a common appreciation of music.

With live music venues, you can get a different experience each time you visit. Here are some of our favorite music spots in Des Moines. Check one of them out this weekend and see what we mean!

Wooly's
504 E. Locust

Wooly's casual saloon-type ambiance features state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems that turn every show into a sensory experience. Their calendar includes a wide spectrum of acts that range from national artists to up-and-coming local bands. The cash-only box office charges no service fees and you can call ahead to reserve a booth for up to six people.

Vaudeville Mews
212 - 4th Street

This cutting-edge nightclub has hosted mega-stars like Macklemore before the rest of the country knew who they were. Enjoy a change of pace with the burlesque acts and comedy shows that occasionally appear on the calendar.

Blue Moon Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant
5485 Mills Civic Parkway

Find out why dueling pianos is one of the hottest entertainment trends around. Join in the fun as you sing along to your favorite tunes. Blue Moon has a menu of appetizers, sandwiches and pizza along with a full bar. Stop in on Tuesdays for their popular Trivia Nights.

Gas Lamp
1501 Grand Avenue

Gas Lamp has a no-frills vintage look that perfectly suits their eclectic schedule, from experimental to bluegrass to punk. Indulge your rock-star fantasies during their open mic nights. Patrons rave about Hole in the Wall, their kitchen which serves food unlike any you will find in most bars like duck meat loaf and Cracker Jack with corn bread pudding. There is also a street window where you can get orders to go.

Ritual Café
1301 Locust Street

When you're in the mood for music that soothes your soul instead of raises your pulse, Ritual Café is the place to be. This cozy vegetarian restaurant and coffee shop offers live concerts along with poetry readings, open mic nights, and other events. It's also a great place to start your day with a breakfast burrito or pecan sticky bun. They have Wi-Fi so bring your laptop or tablet.

When you head out for a night of music, do you like to put your dancing shoes on or just sit back and groove? Share your favorite musical memories with us!