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The High Life Lounge

About

High Life Lounge is more than just a bar; it’s a real journey through time that transports you to the atmosphere of 1960s American taverns. Located in Des Moines, Iowa, USA, this unique spot was created by local enthusiasts from Full Court Press with a profound love for detail and authenticity.

The High Life Lounge. Illustration.
Source: Kupi.com AI

Traveller photos:

Upon entering, you will immediately feel the spirit of the mid-last century. The interior of the High Life Lounge has been carefully recreated down to the smallest detail: from the characteristic formica bar counter to the vintage wallpaper and wood-paneled walls. Retro lamps softly illuminate the space, while vintage Miller beer advertisements throughout add character and recall the golden age of American advertising.

The star of the show is undoubtedly Miller High Life beer. This drink, which held cult status in the 60s and 70s, still retains its appeal today. It holds a place of honor at the High Life Lounge, where you can fully enjoy its taste in a setting that perfectly matches its history. This place is a real find for fans of retro aesthetics and those who want to dive into the unique atmosphere of the past.

Contacts

To find out current information about events at the High Life Lounge, reserve a table, or ask the management other questions, you can use the following contact details. An electronic contact form is also available on the official website.

How to contactContact
Address200 SW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
Phone+1 515-280-1965
Websitethehighlifelounge.com

What to Do

Immerse yourself in the past at the High Life Lounge, a unique venue in Des Moines that recreates the spirit of a 1960s American bar. The main star here is undoubtedly the famous Miller High Life beer, which is incredibly popular with patrons. This is a place where you can feel nostalgic and enjoy classic American hospitality.

In addition to the iconic Miller High Life, fans of retro drinks will find other landmark brands of the era. You can try beers like Hamm's, Pabst Blue Ribbon, or the original Schlitz recipe. It’s a wonderful opportunity to expand your beer horizons and compare tastes popular in the middle of the last century.

But High Life Lounge is about more than just drinks. You can also enjoy a great meal here. The establishment takes pride in the quality of its food, offering guests a diverse menu. Whether it's a light snack or a full dinner, you'll find something to your liking. Furthermore, High Life Lounge offers catering services, so you can order their signature dishes for your own event, from small gatherings to large parties.

Getting There

High Life Lounge is conveniently located in the heart of Des Moines at 200 Southwest 2nd Street. The establishment is situated in the historic Court District, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring this part of the city.

There are several ways to get to High Life Lounge. If you prefer public transport, Des Moines has an extensive bus network; you should check for the stops closest to the Court District. Many routes pass through the city center, from which the lounge is within walking distance.

For those who value comfort and speed, a taxi or popular ride-sharing services are excellent options. A trip from most areas of Des Moines to High Life Lounge won't take long. If you are traveling by private car, keep in mind that parking in the city center, especially in popular districts, can be challenging, so it is worth looking into nearby parking options in advance.

Nearest city: Des Moines

History & Facts

The High Life Lounge in Des Moines is more than just a bar—it’s a true journey through time. It was created by the local company Full Court Press as a 1960s-style tavern. The core concept was to pay homage to mid-20th-century American bar culture, with a particular focus on Miller High Life beer, which was a truly iconic beverage of that era in the USA.

The bar's name, High Life Lounge, is inextricably linked to the famous beer. It is derived from the legendary Miller High Life slogan, "The Champagne of Beers." This slogan perfectly reflected the drink's special status in American culture during the 1960s and 1970s, and the bar strives to capture that atmosphere of exclusivity and nostalgia.

The interior of the High Life Lounge is an attraction in itself. It meticulously recreates the setting of a mid-century American bar. Here, you will find characteristic design elements of the time: formica-top tables, vintage wallpaper, wood-paneled walls, and, of course, retro lighting that creates a cozy and authentic atmosphere.

The location of the High Life Lounge adds further historical value and a unique vibe. The bar is situated in the historic Court District of Des Moines. This proximity to other significant city landmarks makes a visit to the lounge even more interesting, allowing for a deeper immersion into the history and culture of Iowa's capital.

Time Needed

When planning an evening at the High Life Lounge in Des Moines, keep in mind that as a night club or lounge-style venue, the time you spend here will depend on your plans and mood. On average, visitors spend from two to three hours to most of the evening here.

If your goal is to stop by for a couple of drinks, soak in the atmosphere, and socialize for a bit, 1–2 hours might be sufficient. However, if you plan to fully relax, enjoy the music, dance (if the program allows), or spend time with a group of friends, you can easily enjoy 3–4 hours or more at the High Life Lounge. Much will depend on the evening's entertainment and your desire to immerse yourself in the Des Moines nightlife.

Working Hours

High Life Lounge in Des Moines is happy to welcome guests according to the following schedule: Friday through Saturday, the doors are open from 11:00 AM until midnight (00:00), and on other days, from Sunday through Thursday, you can visit from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. These operating hours allow you to enjoy the lounge atmosphere both on weekdays and weekends.

While there is no specific information regarding the need for advance table reservations or ticket purchases, it is recommended to check ahead for popular evening hours or if you are planning to visit with a large group. You can always visit the official High Life Lounge website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information regarding holiday hours, special events, or visiting conditions.

DayOpening hours
Monday11:00 – 23:00
Tuesday11:00 – 23:00
Wednesday11:00 – 23:00
Thursday11:00 – 23:00
Friday11:00 – 12:00
Saturday11:00 – 12:00
Sunday11:00 – 23:00

Nearby

A visit to the High Life Lounge in Des Moines is just one part of what this vibrant district has to offer. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere, discover hidden gems, and make your trip even more fulfilling and memorable. Don't miss the opportunity to broaden your horizons and visit other interesting places located in the immediate vicinity.

There are many other attractions near the High Life Lounge that might interest you. Below is a list of some of them, including distances, to help you easily plan your route.

NameDistance
Science Center of Iowa0.2 km
Downtown Farmers' Market0.3 km
World Food Prize Hall of Laureates0.5 km
Ricochet0.5 km
Cowles Commons0.5 km
State Historical Museum1.1 km
Iowa Events Center Arena1.1 km

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