Rachel Wermager came to Des Moines in 2014 to attend Drake and now describes herself as a “Des Moines Captive” in the most loving way possible. We’re so happy that she is because she now helps us write some amazing articles that are lined up for this fall. We knew that Rachel’s relaxing Saturday in Des Moines would be one to recreate, so we asked her to write it down. If you’re new to the area, or just need an excuse to have a relaxing Saturday, this is a must-read! 

Written by: Rachel Wermager, Des Moines Girl Contributor

The first step to starting my Saturday morning right is making sure that I have a nice and quiet Friday night. I may only be 25, but my hangovers have already started kicking my butt and I’ve come to the realization that I’d much rather feel well-rested and hydrated on Saturday morning versus popping ibuprofen and chugging glasses of water from my nightstand.

(Not to say that still doesn’t happen on occasion, like I said, I am only 25.)

I also like to wake up a little early on Saturday to really take advantage of the day—the more of my favorite things I can fit in the better. So, without further adieu, here’s what you can find me doing on my ideal day in the fall in Des Moines.

The Perfect Relaxing Fall Day in Des Moines

1. Take a yoga class at PowerLife (or your favorite local yoga studio!)

I love to start my Saturday with some light movement. I’ve only been doing yoga since February, but it has quickly grown into one of my favorite things that I do to show my body and mind some love. I enjoy that yoga is a challenge that I can continue to work at, plus I know my muscles could use the stretching. I’ve also done the sunrise yoga at The Rose Farm and highly recommend it if you too need some (free!) morning movement. Rooted Yoga + Fitness is also amazing in Beaverdale.

2. Grab coffee.

My crippling coffee addiction doesn’t let me be awake for long without coffee before a dull headache sets in. Immediately after sweating it out at yoga, I drive to the Starbucks on Locust Street and get an iced coffee or cold brew to kickstart the day. I also love supporting Horizon Line Coffee, just south of the Pappajohn Sculpture Garden, and used to go frequently when I worked at Meredith. 

That first sip really does give me life. Simply driving home on a sunny Saturday morning through downtown Des Moines makes me happy and excited for the rest of the day. Add some upbeat music and I’m enjoying all the good vibes. 

3. Make breakfast and read outside.

Once I get home, it’s time for breakfast. I have been on a big smoothie kick lately, so I’ll pull the blender out and make a mixed berry smoothie to enjoy on my balcony while I read. The slight chill of morning air is the best weather to read in. Whether you have a balcony, backyard, or if you head to Gray’s Lake and spread out a blanket in the grass, reading outside is a relaxing addition to your weekend.

4.  Avoid Gray’s Lake and take a bike ride around Easter Lake instead!

The trail from my apartment—which is right next to Mullets—to Easter Lake is probably my favorite to bike lately. It’s so quiet and uncrowded. I’m a big fan of Gray’s Lake, but if you’ve ever tried to bike around that area you know how busy and almost impossible it is. So I recommend biking to and around Easter Lake for a solid bike ride and workout. The kayaking at Easter Lake is also great if you want to paddle around before biking back.

5. Get Food From Des Fresh

Since Des Fresh is only open Friday-Sunday, I make it one of my top destinations if I’m going to eat out over the weekend. Everything is amazing there, but I especially like the sushiritto, so I’ll grab that to-go, or sit out on one of their picnic tables to eat. It just feels nice and a little special to treat myself to a meal that I really love and don’t get to have very often.

6. Go Out for Drinks with Friends

If I do have a quiet Friday night at home, I typically am in the mood to get dressed up for a night out on Saturday. My ideal night of drinking would probably be some casual beers at Lua Brewing, or a few ranch waters and palomas at Coa Cantina in the East Village.

Rachel’s Other Favorites

We asked Rachel for some of her other favorite places to pop into in the Des Moines area. Here’s what she said:

Want more itineraries like this from cool people around DSM? Have a cool idea story?

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