Mickey's Irish Pub

Mickey's Irish Pub occupies a building at 206 10th Street in the western edge of downtown Des Moines, Iowa, offering a traditional Irish pub experience complete with dark wood paneling, stained-glass accents, and an extensive whiskey wall that forms the back bar's centerpiece. The pub draws a loyal mix of Irish-heritage enthusiasts, downtown professionals unwinding after work, and live-music fans who fill the room on weekend nights. Dress code is casual throughout the week and remains that way even on busier weekend evenings; there is no strict door policy on attire, and the atmosphere is welcoming to everyone from first-time visitors to long-standing regulars.

The drinks programme emphasizes Irish and Scotch whiskies, with a selection spanning dozens of expressions from familiar blends to single malts and American craft whiskeys. Pints of Guinness and other Irish and craft beers are a staple, and the kitchen offers traditional pub fare to accompany the drinks. Live music — typically acoustic sets, folk, and classic rock — runs on Friday and Saturday nights, transforming the space from a comfortable weeknight lounge into a fuller entertainment destination. Background curated music occupies the room on quieter evenings, maintaining the classic pub feel throughout the week.

Weekday hours run from 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM; weekends open earlier at noon and close at 2:00 AM, making it one of the more accessible weekend afternoon options in Des Moines. No cover charge applies on most nights, but live-music events carry a modest door fee of approximately $5 to $10. Reservations are not required for general admission, though private events or large groups can be arranged by contacting the pub directly. The room is busiest between 9:00 PM and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, when the live acts are in full swing.