It goes without saying that every planner strives to create an event that is memorable. And while an interesting menu or trendy lighting certainly helps, to make a lasting impression we recommend starting with a spot that’s out of the ordinary. Don’t know where to begin? We suggest you consider one of these distinctive Iowa venues:
DRAMATICALLY DIFFERENT
RiverCenter | Adler Theatre
What makes it different: Your guests will applaud the gorgeous spaces available at the RiverCenter and the Adler Theatre. The RiverCenter includes two large exhibit halls, 10 breakout rooms, executive boardroom and the historic art-deco Adler Theatre. Opening in 1931, The Adler Theater features a gold leaf ceiling, crystal light fixtures, and black ebony, walnut, and marble details.
Why we love it: Located just two blocks from the banks of the Mississippi River in the heart of downtown Davenport, The RiverCenter is one of the largest meeting/convention facilities in the Quad Cities. The venue is connected to the Hotel Blackhawk, Radisson Quad City Plaza, and the historic Adler Theatre.
FINE ART
Des Moines Performing Arts Center
What makes it different: Des Moines Performing Arts Center consists of four venues, the Des Moines Civic Center for up to 2,700 guests, the Temple Theater for as many as 299, the Stoner Theater which seats 200, and Cowles Commons, an expansive outdoor space.
Why we love it: The Civic Center features a proscenium stage with a fan-shaped continental seating area. The Temple Theater is an intimate space where guests feel like part of the performance. The Stoner Theater is a flexible black box theater offering audiences an up-close and personal experience. The newly renovated Cowles Commons is an outdoor space with sculptures, dramatic lighting, zero depth fountain, and beautiful landscaping.
Figge Art Museum
What makes it different: The gleaming, luminous glass building overlooks the Mississippi River and features five dramatic spaces for events and gatherings. The Grand Lobby has an open floor plan with striking river views for up to 400. Host a reception for 100 in the Dining Room and Bar, a more intimate space. Gather your group of 140 in the John Deere Auditorium or hold a cocktail party for 110 in the Community Gallery. Finally, the Nobis Boardroom Suite is perfect for meetings of 20.
Why we love it: The Figge, as it’s called, has over 4000 works of art. It is best known for its extensive collection of Haitian, Colonial Mexican, and Midwestern Art, making a stroll through its galleries an effective means of getting guests to engage and interact with one another.
MAKE HISTORY
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
What makes it different: The unique exhibits, galleries, and outdoor spaces offer an intriguing backdrop for any event. The Mississippi River Center Discovery Center accommodates up to 250, while the Boatyard, an open-air greenspace with waterfront views, is ideal for up to 200 guests. The historic Train Depot is perfect for smaller functions, while the Mississippi River Plaza Pavilion can accommodate 200 and the Journey and 4D Theaters will hold 135.
Why we love it: An affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium encourages visitors to explore the history, culture, animals, and conservation found along the Mississippi River and other American rivers. The 14-acre campus includes dynamic aquariums, historical exhibits, a boatyard, dredge boat, and wetland area.
Living History Farms
What makes it different: Living History Farms is an interactive outdoor museum which educates, entertains, and connects people to Midwestern rural life experiences. Its beautiful and unique venues include Church of the Land, a “Prairie Gothic” Church; Flynn Barn, built in 1871 and perfect for gatherings of up to 280; Flynn Mansion, built in 1870 with its elegant formal parlor, library, sitting room and dining room; plus more.
Why we love it: There are several outdoor spaces available on the stunning 500-acre farm, including the Walnut Hill Gazebo or the Walnut Hill Picnic Shelter. The latter includes electricity and picnic tables for up to 200, modern restrooms, water, and an outdoor stage.
BACK TO NATURE
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
What makes it different: Located along the Principal Riverwalk just north of downtown Des Moines, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a breathtaking place to hold your event or gathering. Several meeting room options all feature natural lighting with views of outdoor gardens and the opportunity for your guests to stroll and enjoy the grounds.
Why we love it: Your guests will benefit from the Garden’s many amenities, including complimentary admission for event guests during public hours, free parking, and free WiFi. You’ll love the complimentary AV system, dance floor, and dedicated event staff to ensure an event your guests will never forget.
A FAIR DEAL
Adventureland
What makes it different: The theme and water park is the perfect place to bring your peeps, whether for a corporate outing, company picnic, or team building gathering. Meeting facilities are available for as many as 1,000, and include The Clubhouse, The Gazebo, The Palace Theater, and The Festival Grounds. Private catering is available for groups of 75 or more.
Why we love it: The theme park features thrill rides, family rides, kids’ rides, and water rides, while the Adventure Bay Water Park’s thrilling water slides, lazy river, wave pool and more are a refreshing experience on a hot day. The Adventureland Inn has 185 guest rooms, 3 large pools, a swim up bar, hot tubs, and free WiFi.
Arnold’s Park Amusement Park
What makes it different: With kids rides, family rides, thrill rides, and a raceway, your crew will find plenty of activities to amuse themselves at Arnold’s Park. A long-standing tradition in Okoboji, Arnold’s Park also offers concerts, food, midway games, shopping, a maritime museum, movies in the park, plus a beach and rental of jet skis, boats, paddle boards, parasails, and more!
Why we love it: Venue options are charming and abundant here. The Majestic Pavilion with 6000 square feet of space and the iconic Roof Garden are both ideal for large gatherings. The Queen II, modeled after the steamboat, The Queen, is designated the “Flagship of the Iowa Navy” with a capacity for 200. Finally, Preservation Plaza is a lovely outdoor facility with tables, chairs, a large tent for 300, fully staffed bars and catering options.
