
What we’re about
Are you new to the area? Did you recently return but your friends no longer live here? Have you just been too busy with work to make friends?
This group is for anyone -- single, married, divorced, attached -- anyone who would like to meet other people in the area, make friends, and do some activities. This is not a singles group, though single people are welcome. It's not a hookup group. Just people who would like the opportunity to meet and make friends and perhaps do fun activities.
I envision activities as simple as going out to different restaurant, patios, kayaking somewhere locally, exploring museums, enjoying a picnic lunch somewhere, going to museums, taking a tour of local wineries, etc. The options are limitless and will give us a chance to explore Des Moines as well.
Let's explore Des Moines and its surrounding areas, meet interesting people and have a little fun!
There are some immuno-compromised members and others who spend time with those who are vulnerable, children, or unable to receive the vaccine. With respect for them and the CDC recommendations, you must be fully vaccinated to participate in these meetups. Proof of vaccination for each attendee must be provided at the meetup.
Please note: there is a free 60 day trial period; after that there is $10 annual dues to help offset the costs of using the Meetup site. Using the site is not cheap, but it is useful and allows everyone to participate and communicate with each other.
Who's ready to make new friends?
Upcoming events (4)
See all- Tom Archer's Poor Man's Country Club (underneath the Val Air Ballroom)Val Air Ballroom, West Des Moines, IA
Tom Archer's Poor Man's Country Club is a new restaurant just this year, located underneath the Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines. Thought we'd try it out and see what it's like.
Tom Archer's Poor Man's Country Club
Menu — Tom Archer's Poor Man's Country Club
#### Tom Archer’s Poor Man’s Country Club is nestled beneath the beautifully restored Val Air Ballroom, in West Des Moines, Iowa.
Our supper club blends history, community, and refined classic dining honoring the legacy of a Des Moines music visionary, Tom Archer. More than a dining destination — Tom Archer’s is a tribute to the golden era of live music, where food, drinks, and nostalgia come together.



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Tom Archer (1895-1963) was a major player in the big band and the ballroom movement of the 1930’s - 40’s. At his peak, he operated nine ballrooms across the Midwest, Val Air being his flagship property. He was a founding member of the National Ballroom Association and worked on a national level to improve laws for the music industry as well as fellow ballroom operators.
Upon his sudden death in 1963, a band leader wrote, “No one did more to keep people dancing in the Midwest than Tom Archer."PARKING -- is on site and free; they have a large parking lot.
Note: Bill Murray and his Blood Brothers are playing at the Val Air Ballroom that night; available tickets appear to be $350-$500+ if you are interested in the 7:30 show. Link below.
- Tullpa -- Peruvian Restaurant3708 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines, IA
Tullpa Peruvian Restaurant – Latin American Food in Des Moines
## Best Latin American Food in Des Moines
Conveniently located at 3708 Merle Hay Rd. Tullpa Peruvian Restaurant is a culinary gem that delights patrons with its mouthwatering selection of delicious Peruvian and Latin American cuisine.
From traditional Peruvian ceviche to savory empanadas, Tullpa offers an authentic dining experience that transports guests to the vibrant flavors of Peru and beyond.
This restaurant is located two doors south of the Verizon store on the corner of Douglas Avenue and Merle Hay Road.
Tullpa serves alcoholic drinks. They have red and white wines, beers, sangria, mojitos, long island iced tea, traditional alcoholic beverages from Peru, etc.
Although they serve food in a beautiful style, the dress is casual...no need to dress up unless you want to, of course!
- KPOT -- Korean BBQ and HotPotKPot, West Des Moines, IA
The Best Korean BBQ and Hot Pot - KPOT
New restaurant near Jordan Creek Mall. They have 3 tables of 8, plus other smaller tables, but they do NOT take reservations so there could be a wait.Both hot pot and Korean barbecue provide interactive, communal dining experiences. The hands-on cooking is part of the fun.
For hot pot, groups sit around a shared simmering pot, dropping in ingredients, swirling them in the broth, seasoning to taste. It’s joyful and conversational with everyone participating in cooking their meal.
At Korean barbecue, diners grill their own slices of marinated meat and veggies on the tabletop grill. The sizzling meat hot off the grill and wrapped in lettuce is deeply satisfying. KBBQ is highly social, with lively table chatter amidst the sounds and smells of the cooking.
So whether you want to dip ingredients in a flavorful broth or have a hand in grilling your own food, both hot pot and Korean barbecue offer fun and culinary delights with friends and family.
NOTE: THE WHOLE TABLE MUST CHOOSE THE SAME OPTION: either HotPot, Korean BBQ or both.
$30.99 for HotPot or Korean BBQ. $5 more for both.All-you-can-eat Korean BBQ or Hot Pot or both --
Freshly prepared ingredients
Unlimited access to our Hot Appetizer Bar & Sauce Bar
Complimentary dessert and ice cream*
Premium selections of meats and seafood
*Dessert options may vary based on locationsBecause the whole table must order the same, please come with an open mind and consideration for your table mates. Remember to be flexible. It's part of the shared experience.