11 Des Moines-area dive bars to visit on Thanksgiving Eve
If you’re looking for a place where the drinks are strong, the vibes are nostalgic and the décor includes everything from graffiti to prosthetic limbs, Des Moines has a dive bar for you. And what better night to hit these neighborhood haunts than Thanksgiving Eve, the unofficial holiday when hometown crowds flock to their favorite bars before the big feast? These dives are more than watering holes — they’re community institutions, each with its own quirks, characters and cocktails. Often dimly lit with inexpensive drinks, a local clientele and a lived-in feel, they offer a sense of nostalgia and connection. From murals that haven’t changed in half a century to game-show mornings and impromptu dance parties, Des Moines’ dive bar scene is as colorful as it is welcoming. Let’s take a tour. Alpine Taproom: A whiskey revival on Ingersoll The Alpine Taproom has long been a favorite for locals who appreciate a good jukebox, a game of pool and a no-nonsense drink. This Wisconsin-style dive bar on Ingersoll Avenue got a fresh jolt of energy thanks to Cory Wendel of Lachele’s Fine Foods, who took the reins in June 2025. He didn’t mess with the soul of the place —
