The Garden Nightclub image

The Garden Nightclub

Bar Lounge Night club Live music venue Gay bar

One of the Most Reviewed Lounges in Des Moines


Address

525 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (516 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Sunday: (Easter), 2 PM to 2 AM, Hours might differ
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 4 PM to 2 AM
  • Thursday: 4 PM to 2 AM
  • Friday: 4 PM to 2 AM
  • Saturday: 2 PM to 2 AM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: show (12) people (9) drag (9) time (8) great (7) staff (6) friendly (6)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Jeff I. 3 years ago on Google
    This was my first time to visit here. It finally reopened on May 1st. There's lots of people watching all the shows. I enjoyed watching the shows myself. I would say it was standing room only. They serve food that is reasonablely priced. The drinks are not outrageously priced either. I found the staff to be very friendly. I think the owners have done a great job of reopening the Garden. The people watching the shows seem to be very friendly to everyone. There is a wide range of people in this LGBTQ facility. I was really impressed of the upstairs patio which also has a bar, plenty of tables and chairs and a smoking section. The smoking section is not the entire patio. It's in a small far off corner away from majority of the tables. As of this writing I've been to the Garden twice now and I have enjoyed it each time. One of the owners I met Bird, he's friendly and you can see him going around visiting with all the customers. If he recognizes a new face he will go up and introduce himself and welcome you to the Garden. The first time I was there I had the grilled chicken sandwich and it was good, onion rings. The second time I had the chicken tenders which were just as good. They will bring the food out to your table. I feel this is a safe place for people to visit and I would recommend it.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 SE W. 1 year ago on Google
    On 6/3/23, my boyfriend and I had the pleasure of attending a drag show at the blazing Saddle. It was a fantastic event filled with talented performers and a vibrant atmosphere. However, there was an unfortunate incident that I feel compelled to share. During the show, a remarkable moment occurred when an elderly lady with a walker was enjoying the performances. She was incredibly kind, tipping the drag queens and adding to the wholesome spirit of the evening. As the venue became more crowded, she found it difficult to navigate through the crowd. It was then that a young man, who happened to be standing near her, graciously lifted the rope of the VIP area so she could exit through the designated walkway. To our surprise, one of the drag queens nearby, Lieza Diamond, reacted negatively to this act of kindness. She made a scene, expressing her disapproval loudly and causing discomfort for many attendees. This behavior was disappointing, especially considering this drag queen had recently received recognition for her talent at the Garden Nightclub. It is essential to remember that the actions of one individual do not represent an entire community. The drag community and the LGBT community, in general, are built on inclusivity, love, and acceptance. This incident should not overshadow the countless moments of compassion and support that we have witnessed within these communities. Let us use this incident as a reminder to continue embracing the values that make our community so special. It's important to uplift those who exemplify these values and contribute positively to our shared experiences. Together, we can create a space that celebrates diversity, kindness, and understanding.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 marianne s. 2 years ago on Google
    Was our first time at new location, there was good seating and great bartender. Show was almost more performance art than Drag show and everyone enjoyed all the performers.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Draven H. 2 years ago on Google
    Great spot for a solid drink and to watch a show! I wasn't sure about finding some LGBTQ+ friendly bars when I moved here a few months ago but am so happy to find such an open and fun spot to go out for drinks! Definitely encourage you to go out, take in a show, bring some dollar bills and have a blast!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Desiree G. 2 years ago on Google
    Went recently to the Saturday night show(s) - we stayed for multiple. We had gone for a friends birthday. I can’t express in words how much fun we had that night. Every single performer was uniquely beautiful and talented. The entire staff was amazing and incredibly kind. The new location was easy to find as well. I recommend to ANYONE to go and enjoy a show! I’ll be back very soon!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Yency G. 1 year ago on Google
    I love the shows but when it comes to food. They over charge for food. We got maybe 10 small pieces of onion rings for the price of 8 + dollars and when I asked why I was told by a bartender honey I don't make the ruler an a role eye! Don't take advantage of people!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pike H. 2 years ago on Google
    I performed here for "Translucent" and had a blast! Everyone was nice, including staff and patrons. The rooftop was lovely! I can't wait to come back! 💜
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Teran C. 1 year ago on Google
    We had a BLAST here! My cousin Shane hooked us up with a front table and we had so much fun. Can't wait to go back.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 E F. 2 years ago on Google
    5$ a short for well vodka? Their alcohol is grotesquely overpriced. Not really a great vibe either. Also the bartender said some really rude thing to us and was stingy on the alcohol. They also have a credit card use fee.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Johnny F. 2 years ago on Google
    Having never really been in many clubs or vars, it felt small. The people were nice but the atmosphere was dark and not that inviting to me. Didn't try the food but it looked ok. Good drink selection and there is an upstairs bar and balcony area.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Patrick mcnitt J. 2 years ago on Google
    I forgot this man name he is a awesome dancer does anyone know his name ?

  • 5/5 Iowa City B. 2 years ago on Google
    The new owners were just what the Garden needed. Friendly and fun staff, nice bar food and I love the spacious show lounge.

  • 3/5 Robin K. 1 year ago on Google
    The old tired man bartending downstairs 8/13 needs to liven up a bit. If I'm going out to unwind, it's not to see or hear grouchy people especially those that are pouring me a drink. Maybe hire people that actually want to work and understand how to treat customers a little nicer? A simple smile would have suffice. I'll give this place another try but I'm avoiding that bartender from now on. Now I understand why their bar was empty, and rooftop was busier.

  • 5/5 Kimberly T. 2 years ago on Google
    Nice place to relax and unwind. Especially when the rooftop is open

  • 3/5 Jack C. 1 year ago on Google
    The drinks were good and I enjoyed the shows, but the bartender was rude, unfortunately I didn't get a name, but, this being my first time there, I felt pressured to quickly order something, and when I asked if he could do a rum bucket, he acted like I was stupid. Won't stop me from coming back but definitely gonna steer clear from him in the future.

  • 4/5 jake e. 4 years ago on Google
    Great club vibe! Love going here on busy nights. It’s setup is perfect! The owners and staff are friendly. Great patio area. The dance area was a little weird setup for my vibe. I think they should move the tables and chairs after the show for people to have an actual dance setup. It’s not really that busy that often. Plus, there’s a cover and the drinks are weak.

  • 5/5 Karin H. 1 year ago on Google
    Once again, the incredible performances left me in awe! The talent here is staggering! The service is amazing, and I felt so welcome here; thank you so much for making an old gal's night! Jade, you are in your element performing and MCing...your improv skills are 2nd to none! Ginger Diamond, you floor me with your dance moves and impeccable style! The beautiful gal who did the Death Drop...holy sh#t!! Every single thing you did on stage was worthy of an award!! Thank you all...what a great time!

  • 5/5 Bryan W. 1 year ago on Google
    Great club, friendly staff and patrons, great entertainment, clean and safe. One of the best in Des Moines.

  • 5/5 Danielle M. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing drag show, great drinks and food. 100% will be back again

  • 5/5 Bree Ann F. 10 months ago on Google
    I have been to a late night drag show, a drag brunch, and an all ages drag show here. I had a great time at all three events!


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Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Dancing
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Happy hour drinks
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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