The 30 Best Theater & Cinema in Des Moines, Iowa

The Des Moines Community Playhouse is a vibrant and inclusive theater institution located at 831 42nd Street in Des Moines, Iowa. Since its founding in 1919, the Playhouse has been dedicated to providing high-quality theatrical productions and educational programs for the community. With a mission to enrich the cultural life of Central Iowa, the Playhouse offers a diverse range of plays, musicals, and other performances that showcase local talent and entertain audiences of all ages. In addition to its mainstage productions, the Playhouse also offers classes, workshops, and camps for aspiring actors and theater enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to participate in a production or simply enjoy a night at the theater, the Des Moines Community Playhouse is a welcoming and dynamic institution that celebrates the power of live performance.

Temple Theater, located at 1011 Locust Street in Des Moines, Iowa, is a historic and iconic institution known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. This beautifully restored theater offers a wide range of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts and comedy acts. With its grand lobby, ornate detailing, and state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, Temple Theater provides an unforgettable experience for patrons of all ages. Whether you're a theater enthusiast or simply looking for a night of entertainment, Temple Theater is a must-visit destination in the heart of downtown Des Moines.

The Des Moines Art Center is a renowned institution located at 4700 Grand Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. As a leading art gallery and museum, it showcases a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art from around the world. The center also features a charming store where visitors can purchase unique art pieces and gifts. With its stunning architecture and vibrant exhibitions, the Des Moines Art Center is a must-visit tourist attraction for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

friends and family for a movie night under the stars with FunFlicks Outdoor Movies in Des Moines, Iowa. Located at 211 Main Street in Minden, Iowa, FunFlicks offers the best projector screen rental service in the area. Whether you're planning a school event, community gathering, or neighborhood block party, FunFlicks has you covered. Our experienced event technicians will set up state-of-the-art equipment for you anywhere in Iowa. From excellent movie theater quality projection to loud high-definition sound, we guarantee a memorable movie-watching experience. Each screen reservation includes delivery, setup, and removal, along with an on-site technician to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Des Moines Onstage is a vibrant performing arts institution located at 2124 Grand Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. We are dedicated to providing a platform for local talent to showcase their skills in a variety of theatrical productions, including plays, musicals, and dance performances. Our mission is to cultivate a love for the arts in our community and support emerging artists in reaching their full potential. With a commitment to excellence and creativity, Des Moines Onstage is a hub for cultural enrichment and entertainment in the heart of Iowa. Join us for a night of unforgettable performances and support the arts in Des Moines!

Des Moines Young Artists' Theatre is a non-profit organization located at 4801 Franklin Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. Our mission is to provide a platform for young artists to explore and develop their talents in the performing arts. We offer a range of training programs and opportunities for students to showcase their skills on stage. Our goal is to empower young people to use their creativity to make a positive impact in their community. Contact us at board@dmyat.org for more information on how to get involved.

Des Moines Performing Arts is a renowned cultural institution located at 221 Walnut Street in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. This vibrant venue showcases a diverse range of performances including Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and more. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to showcasing top-tier talent, Des Moines Performing Arts is a hub for entertainment and cultural enrichment in the heart of downtown Des Moines. Whether you're a seasoned theatergoer or a first-time visitor, you're sure to be captivated by the world-class performances at this esteemed institution.

The Des Moines Civic Center is a premier performing arts venue located at 221 Walnut Street in Des Moines, Iowa. Home to a variety of cultural events and performances, the Civic Center offers a diverse range of entertainment including Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and more. With state-of-the-art facilities and a prime location in the heart of downtown Des Moines, the Civic Center is a hub for arts and culture in the region. Whether you're looking for a night of world-class entertainment or a place to host your own event, the Des Moines Civic Center is the perfect destination for all your cultural needs.

Varsity Cinema, located at 1207 25th Street in Des Moines, Iowa, offers a unique movie-going experience. This institution showcases prestige new releases, art house and international films, curated repertory series, and classic movies. In addition, Varsity Cinema hosts upscale genre and late-night screenings, as well as kids and family film series. On Thursday nights at 10pm, movie buffs can enjoy late-night classics, horror films, and genre flicks. Families can attend curated kids and family film showings on Saturdays and Sundays at 1pm.

Fleur Cinema & Café is a charming movie theater located in Des Moines, Iowa. Situated at 4545 Fleur Drive, this institution offers a unique experience for movie-goers with its cozy atmosphere and delicious café menu. Enjoy a wide selection of independent and foreign films in comfortable seating, or grab a bite to eat at the café before or after your movie. Fleur Cinema & Café is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a film in a friendly and welcoming environment.

Varsity Cinema is a premier movie theater located in Des Moines, Iowa. With state-of-the-art facilities and a wide selection of films, Varsity Cinema offers an unparalleled cinematic experience for moviegoers of all ages. From blockbuster hits to indie gems, there is something for everyone at Varsity Cinema. Visit our website at Varsitydesmoines.com for showtimes, ticket information, and special events. Come and experience the magic of the movies at Varsity Cinema today!

Walmart Home Theater Installation is a premier service provider located at 6365 Stagecoach Drive in West Des Moines, Iowa, United States. Our expert technicians specialize in setting up and installing state-of-the-art home theater systems to enhance your entertainment experience. Whether you're looking to upgrade your existing setup or starting from scratch, we are here to help. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, Walmart Home Theater Installation is your go-to destination for all your home theater needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and bring the ultimate cinematic experience into your home.

The Des Moines Film Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and celebrating the art of cinema in the Des Moines community. Located at 1207 25th Street in Des Moines, Iowa, the society offers a diverse range of film screenings, discussions, and events for film enthusiasts of all ages. Through its programming, the Des Moines Film Society aims to educate, entertain, and inspire audiences while fostering a greater appreciation for the power of storytelling through film. Join us in exploring the world of cinema at the Des Moines Film Society.

Walmart Home Theater Installation is a one-stop destination for all your home entertainment needs in Des Moines, Iowa. Our expert technicians are dedicated to providing top-notch installation services for your home theater systems, ensuring a seamless and immersive viewing experience. Located at 5101 Southeast 14th Street, our convenient location makes it easy for you to upgrade your entertainment setup with ease. Trust Walmart Home Theater Installation to bring the magic of the big screen right into your living room.

Stoner Theater, located at 221 Walnut Street in Des Moines, Iowa, is a vibrant cultural institution that showcases a diverse range of performances and events. From live theater productions to musical performances, comedy shows, and film screenings, Stoner Theater offers a dynamic and engaging entertainment experience for audiences of all ages. The venue's state-of-the-art facilities and prime location in the heart of downtown Des Moines make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking for a night of laughter, drama, or musical talent, Stoner Theater has something for everyone to enjoy.

Sylvan Theater, also known as Greenwood Park Outdoor Theater, is a picturesque outdoor venue located in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, this charming theater provides a unique and enchanting setting for a variety of performances and events. Whether you're looking to enjoy a live concert, theater production, or outdoor movie screening, Sylvan Theater offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is sure to delight audiences of all ages. With its serene atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings, this venue is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the magic of outdoor entertainment.

Des Moines Metro Opera is a renowned opera company located in Indianola, Iowa. Situated at 106 West Boston Avenue, this institution is known for its high-quality productions and talented performers. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1973, Des Moines Metro Opera has become a cultural hub for opera enthusiasts in the United States. Whether you are a seasoned opera-goer or a newcomer to the art form, this institution offers a diverse range of performances that are sure to captivate and inspire audiences of all ages. Experience the magic of opera at Des Moines Metro Opera.

The Science Center of Iowa, located at 401 West Martin Luther King Junior Parkway in Des Moines, is a dynamic institution that aims to engage and inspire a love of science in visitors of all ages. As a museum, school, and tourist attraction, SCI offers hands-on exhibits, special-format theaters, and unique programming that encourages learning and fun. Centrally located in Downtown Des Moines, SCI is a hub for science education and exploration in the state. With daily visitors, statewide educational outreach programs, and an NAEYC-accredited preschool, the Science Center of Iowa serves over 300,000 people annually. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist passing through, a visit to SCI is sure to spark curiosity and excitement about the wonders of science.

Located at 1420 Locust Street in Des Moines, Iowa, Django is a cozy brasserie-style restaurant that offers a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy delicious French cuisine. The restaurant features an interactive chef station where guests can indulge in fresh seafood and artisan cheese plates. One of the highlights of Django is their unique "NO CORKAGE DAILY" policy, allowing guests to bring their own bottles of wine to enjoy with no corkage fee, with a limit of two bottles per party. Additional bottles can be enjoyed for a small corkage fee of $15 each.

The Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park is a stunning outdoor venue located at 2251 George Flagg Parkway in Des Moines, Iowa. This state-of-the-art amphitheater offers a picturesque setting for a variety of events, including concerts, performances, and community gatherings. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking a tranquil lake, the Lauridsen Amphitheater provides a unique and memorable experience for all who visit. With top-notch sound and lighting systems, as well as ample seating and parking, this venue is perfect for hosting a wide range of events. Whether you're looking to enjoy a live music performance or simply relax in the beautiful surroundings, the Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park is a must-visit destination in Des Moines.

Drake University Theatre Arts is a prestigious institution located in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. Our campus at 2505 Carpenter Avenue is home to a vibrant community of aspiring actors, directors, designers, and technicians. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, students at Drake University Theatre Arts have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of productions, from classical plays to contemporary works. Our dedicated faculty members are industry professionals who provide hands-on training and mentorship to help students develop their craft and prepare for successful careers in the performing arts. Whether you're interested in acting, stage management, or costume design, Drake University Theatre Arts offers a comprehensive education that will set you on the path to a fulfilling and rewarding future in the world of theatre.

Grand View University Viking Events Center is a state-of-the-art facility located in Des Moines, Iowa. It serves as the hub for all events hosted by Grand View University, including athletic competitions, concerts, guest lectures, and community gatherings. The center is equipped with top-notch amenities and technology to ensure a memorable experience for all attendees. With its convenient location on East 14th Street, the Viking Events Center is easily accessible to both students and the general public. Whether you're a sports fan looking to cheer on the Vikings or a student attending a conference, the Viking Events Center is the perfect venue for all your event needs.

Gateway Dance Theatre is a premier dance institution located at 900 Keosauqua Way in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. With a focus on excellence in dance education and performance, Gateway Dance Theatre offers a wide range of classes for all ages and levels, from beginners to advanced dancers. The institution is dedicated to fostering creativity, discipline, and a love for dance in its students. With experienced instructors and state-of-the-art facilities, Gateway Dance Theatre provides a supportive and inspiring environment for dancers to grow and thrive. Whether you are looking to pursue a career in dance or simply want to learn a new skill, Gateway Dance Theatre is the perfect place to unleash your passion for dance.

Staplin Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art facility located at 3650 Woodland Avenue in West Des Moines, Iowa. It serves as a hub for the performing arts in the community, offering a wide range of programs and events for all ages. The center features a spacious auditorium with top-notch sound and lighting equipment, as well as multiple rehearsal spaces and classrooms for workshops and classes. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just looking to explore your creative side, Staplin Performing Arts Center has something for everyone. Come experience the magic of live performance at this premier institution in the heart of West Des Moines.

Iowa Dance Theatre is a renowned institution located at 2100 Southeast 5th Street in Des Moines, Iowa. As a premier dance academy in the United States, we offer exceptional training in various dance styles such as ballet, contemporary, jazz, and more. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to nurturing the talent and creativity of our students, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the world of dance. With state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive community, Iowa Dance Theatre is the perfect place for dancers of all ages and levels to grow and thrive. Join us today and experience the magic of dance!

Iowa Stage Theatre Company, located at 221 Walnut Street in Des Moines, Iowa, is dedicated to producing truthful, relevant, and intimate theatre that inspires, enlightens, and entertains. In 2024, the company is introducing a themed season focused on the power of women, featuring plays such as The Glass Menagerie, Melancholy Play, Witch, and A Christmas Carol. The Golden Ticket Package offers exclusive benefits, including tickets to opening nights and special events. Iowa Stage Theatre Company is a vital part of the arts community in Iowa, striving to transform both the state and its citizens through the magic of live theatre.

Franklin Jr High is a renowned educational institution located at 4801 Franklin Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. With a focus on academic excellence and holistic student development, Franklin Jr High offers a wide range of programs and activities to cater to the diverse interests and talents of its students. The school is known for its dedicated faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and innovative teaching methods that ensure a dynamic and engaging learning environment for all students. Franklin Jr High is committed to preparing students for success in high school and beyond, fostering a love for learning, and instilling values of respect, responsibility, and community involvement. Visit Franklin Jr High to discover a vibrant and supportive educational community dedicated to empowering students to reach their full potential.

Horizon Events Center is a premier event venue located at 2100 Northwest 100th Street in Clive, Iowa. Situated in the heart of the Des Moines metro area, our center is conveniently located next to the Greenbelt Bike Trail, offering easy access for guests. At Horizon Events Center, we offer a full range of services to meet all your event needs. Whether you are planning a wedding, corporate event, or community gathering, our experienced team is dedicated to providing exceptional service and creating unforgettable experiences.

Sheslow Auditorium, located at 2507 University Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa, is a stunning 775 seat facility used for concerts, recitals, guest speakers, and campus programs. Renovated in 1992, the auditorium features 35 tons of hand-applied plaster on the ceiling and beautifully restored stained glass windows. Audience members have praised the venue for its acoustics and ambiance, making it a favorite spot for performances. Whether you're enjoying a piano recital, a classical concert, or a guest speaker event, Sheslow Auditorium offers a memorable experience for all who attend. With its rich history and elegant design, this institution continues to be a cultural hub in the heart of Des Moines.

Cinemark Century Jordan Creek 20 and XD is a premier entertainment destination located in West Des Moines, Iowa. This institution offers a unique blend of food, meal takeaway, movie theater, and restaurant experiences all under one roof. With 20 screens showcasing the latest blockbuster films in stunning XD technology, moviegoers can enjoy an immersive cinematic experience like never before. In addition, guests can indulge in a variety of delicious dining options from the on-site restaurant, making it the perfect place for a fun night out with friends or family. Conveniently located at 101 Jordan Creek Parkway, Cinemark Century Jordan Creek 20 and XD is a must-visit destination for movie lovers and food enthusiasts alike.