There’s nothing better than to get you in the spirit of Halloween than a themed pop-up bar, and Greater Des Moines has des best of the best. Find frighteningly good choices below and plan your visit before they disappear for the season!
Nightmare on Ingersoll
Where: The Station on Ingersoll
When: October 1 – November 2
What: The OG of The Station’s pop-up bars, Nightmare on Ingersoll has returned for another year. With dozens of choices for seasonal drinks, you are sure to find something hauntingly good. If you’re looking for trivia nights, Nightmare on Ingersoll has you covered on anything from Hocus Pocus to horror movie trivia, and more. Plus, they have lunch reservations if you’re looking for a midday scare! Learn more here.
Nightmare at Jordan Creek
Where: Jordan Creek Mall
When: October 1 – November 2
What: After the success of Nightmare on Ingersoll, owners have found space in Jordan Creek Mall for a 2.0 version, Nightmare at Jordan Creek. Enjoy haunted photo ops, spooky cocktails and mocktails, and delish bites. Try a Carrie’s blood bag, served in a literal IV bag. Or try a fun fall themed mocktail like Casper’s caramel apple soda. Nightmare at Jordan Creek will be hosting trivia nights and other fun events all season long, so don’t be afraid to make a reservation here.
Wicked Heights
Where: The Republic on Grand
When: October 1 – November 2
What: Head to the top of the AC Hotel in the East Village for The Republic on Grand’s Halloween rooftop experience that is sure to frighten. Welcome to Wicked Heights, a pop-up full of seasonal cocktails like Morticia’s Nightcap or Evil Queen. Looking for a specific event to celebrate spooky season? Don’t miss out on their Til Death Do Us Party, an evening full of costumes, music from DJ cdisiac, and more on October 26. Wicked Heights is a first come, first served experience, so don’t get nightmares about missing out.
Disturb
Where: Good News Darling
When: October 2 – November 2
What: Head to the back of Hello, Marjorie towards Good News, Darling, Des Moines’ coolest speakeasy for Disturb, back for another year. Called a chilling cocktail experience, Disturb is sure to shake you to your core. With an extensive menu featuring nearly 20 seasonal cocktails, creep it real with a Twilight Zone or a Fall Daiq. Reservations are not available but be sure to check in with the host at Hello, Marjorie for availability.
The Haunting
Where: Exile Brewing Co.
When: October 1 – November 2
What: Exile has double the scares with their haunted pop-up, the Haunting. Located on both the first and second floors of Exile, you just have to hit this one twice. On your first trip, grab a Skull Crusher, and next time be sure to try the Transylvanian Thirst Trap, garnished with gummy fangs. Plus, they are hosting a pumpkin carving contest all month long, so be sure to bring in your best work by October 26 for the chance to win a $150 gift card. Grab a reservation before they disappear here!
