Lifestyle Sales and Shows Showpig News
Any swine enthusiast knows that Des Moines, Iowa, is the place to be the first week of June. Not only do the Iowa State Fairgrounds serve as a showpig Mecca, with one of the largest and most competitive shows in the country, but all of this is just part of the largest swine trade show in the world. The World Pork Expo is an experience you shouldn’t miss. But, if you’re looking for venues beyond the swine barn, Showpig.com’s team has you covered.
First is fine dining. Tursi’s Latin King is an ironically named but incredibly delicious Italian restaurant not too far from the fairgrounds. For nearly seven decades, Latin King has served as an East side institution, creating authentic Italian in the heart of the Midwest. You may even forget that you smell like a swine barn while you indulge on classic Italian fare and review their extensive wine list.
If a good ol’ fashion steak house sounds more appealing, look for the big Hereford statue outside of The Big Steer. This restaurant is known to have some of the best prime rib in the Des Moines area, and it was created for carnivores. Their steaks and portions are never lacking in flavor or authentic grill marks.
The buzz, this year, seems to be Zombie Burger + Drink Lab located downtown. Zombie Burger prides itself on its innovative flavor combinations, marrying the convenience of fast food with pure culinary creation. All of this is housed in a self-described “post apocalyptic chic” atmosphere. Grab a burger that can fuel even the walking dead.
Jethro’s BBQ was named the manliest restaurant in the Midwest in the 2011 Men’s Health Magazine. Their smoked barbecue can stand up to your man-sized hunger. But don’t worry, girls are welcome too, and Jethro’s sauces run the gamete from sweet and southern to hot and spicy. Jethro’s BBQ conveniently has several locations around the Des Moines area, and each has its own specialty. Check out their website, to find one close to your hotel.
Last on our good eats list is the Machine Shed. This good ol’ fashioned, home cooking, served family style, is a great stop for a hearty meal and a break to stretch your legs. Check their locations to see if there is one on your route, or stop by the Urbandale, Iowa, location, which isn’t far from the National Pork Board office.
Once your full, if you haven’t seen enough animals in the swine barn, feel free to head on over to the Blank Park Zoo. This zoo houses several animals, including one of their star attractions a baby Eastern Black Rhino named Tumani. June 8 happens to be World Oceans Day, and visitors will be able to watch aquatic team go for a dive in the reef tank.
If you’re looking for less exotic animal entertainment or just have a need for speed, check out the live horse races at Prairie Meadows Race Track, which is open to all ages. A full schedule of the post times for their Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse races are available on their website, and this is a great way to practice your handicapping skills before the Belmont.
For those thrill-seekers who are looking for excitement beyond the grand drive, check out Adventureland Amusement Park.You and your family could take a ride on the newest scream-worthy roller coaster called the Monster, swing 260 feet off the ground at 35 miles an hour on the Storm Chaser, or cool off in Iowa’s largest wave pool and lazy river.
Last but not least, you can walk just a few yards beyond the swine barn, to experience a whole other side of the World Pork Expo. From trade show exhibits to free pork cuisine, the entire Iowa State Fairgrounds is full of things to do and see for swine producers of all ages. Be sure to download the World Pork Expo app, so you can get the most out of your Expo experience.