Up-Down DSM

📍 Gay bars in Des Moines

9.0

Up-Down DSM is a standout destination in the city's gay bar scene, offering a unique blend of nostalgic arcade gaming and modern entertainment. The venue boasts an impressive selection of arcade games, ranging from classic favorites to newer titles, all meticulously maintained. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, making it an ideal spot for both group outings and casual dates. The extensive drink menu, featuring craft beers and creative cocktails, complements the fun-filled environment perfectly.

With two floors of gaming fun, homemade pizza by the slice, and a dedicated staff, Up-Down DSM ensures a memorable experience. The venue's versatility extends to hosting special events, such as wedding receptions, with excellent service and attention to detail. Whether you're a gaming enthusiast or simply looking for a good time, Up-Down DSM delivers a high-energy, engaging experience that keeps visitors coming back for more.

Features and services of Up-Down DSM

Service options

  • Delivery
  • Takeaway
  • Dine-in

Highlights

  • Bar games
  • Fast service
  • Great beer selection
  • Great cocktails

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Arcade games
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Food
  • Food at bar
  • Happy-hour drinks
  • Spirits
  • Wine

Dining options

  • Seating

Amenities

  • Toilet
  • Wi-Fi

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Trendy

Crowd

  • Groups
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Tourists
  • Transgender safe space

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Parking

  • Paid street parking

Up-Down DSM is in position 1 out of 11 in gay bars in Des Moines

Customer Reviews

★★★★★
★★★★★

Up-Down DSM has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on over 1874 reviews on Google

Dylan Rion

If you’re in downtown Des Moines and looking for a fun night out, Up-Down Des Moines is hands down one of the best spots to go. The arcade game selection is massive, from classic throwbacks to newer favorites, and everything is kept in great condition. The drink selection is impressive too, with tons of craft beers and creative options to choose from. The whole place has an upbeat, nostalgic vibe that makes it easy to relax and have a good time whether you’re out with friends or on a casual date or even just by yourself It’s one of those places you can spend hours at without even realizing it. Definitely a must-visit in the city.

Dylan Rion ☆ 5/5
UnshornKeyboardist

My friend and I had a blast at this place! So many different choices of video games! The neon lights add to the 80s/90s theme, and the drinks and pizza are really good too! If you’re looking for an arcade with classic arcade games with pizza that has stretchy gooey cheese, this is the perfect place for you! I know I enjoyed it! Only thing I would’ve changed was for them to play more 80s music and less modern crappy music. Other than that, perfect night out!

UnshornKeyboardist ☆ 5/5
Tera Sheetz

Fun atmosphere, good is OK. The gumbo was thick and similar to gravy. I like my gumbo slightly less than gravy consistency. Overall it was good.

Tera Sheetz ☆ 3/5
Margie Adams

Omg 21+ video game themed bar! Homemade pizza by the slice! But 2 floors of FUN!!

Margie Adams ☆ 5/5
Addie

my roommate and i come here just about every weekend and we’re always served very well by the bartenders. we especially love the guy with the mandala tattoo in his elbow pit, but i’ve never gotten his name! he’s great though, as are all the servers. they’ve got so many fun games and lots to do. highly recommend! they’ve got deals every day of the week

Addie ☆ 5/5
Sarah Mayberry

We had our wedding reception at Up Down. Jess was wonderful to work with. She answered all my questions and made sure everything went perfectly. The staff was awesome too. All of our guests had a blast and told us it was the most fun wedding reception ever. Thank you for making our day memorable and, most importantly, fun 😊

Sarah Mayberry ☆ 5/5
Kyle Wright

Very nice two story arcade in downtown DSM. Started coming here two years ago as it has become a post convention staple for Assembly Required, a local toy show 100% worth checking out. Pizza is great and slices are large. Beer list is good and there is a solid spread of beer types. Only caveat was they must have sold or swapped the GI Joe cabinet with another location. The bartender downstairs had no clue what I was talked about when I asked if it was somewhere else in the arcade. Might be good to train the team on what games are on site. I’ll be back again! Three beers, two slices, and a fiver for games put me at $30 with tip for the night.

Kyle Wright ☆ 4/5
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Information about Up-Down DSM

Address

Up-Down DSM is located at 500 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, United States

Phone

The phone number of Up-Down DSM is +1 515-243-4322

Website

The website of Up-Down DSM is: updowndsm.com

Business Hours

Monday: 17:00–02:00
Tuesday: 17:00–02:00
Wednesday: 17:00–02:00
Thursday: 17:00–02:00
Friday: 17:00–02:00
Saturday: 14:00–02:00
Sunday: 14:00–02:00

Contact Up-Down DSM

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