Wooly's
Wooly's Information
Wooly's is a concert venue in Des Moines, Iowa. Located in a historic building, this approximately 680-capacity venue hosts intimate concerts featuring local, regional, and national touring acts. It's previously hosted artists like Andrew McMahon, The Struts, Jade Bird, Ice Nine Kills, The HU, and Grouplove.1
The venue is located in Des Moines' historic East Village. This neighborhood, stretching from the Des Moines River to the Iowa Capitol Building, is filled with restaurants, shopping, and entertainment venues, including live music venues like Wooly's.2
If you're hoping to catch a concert at this unique venue, get your Wooly's tickets at AXS.
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Venue Information
Wooly's Policies
Before your first show at Wooly's it's important to review the venue's rules and policies, so you're prepared for your visit.
- Re-Entry & Smoking: Re-entry is not permitted for guests aged 20 and under. Guests age 21 or older can re-enter with a wristband. Re-entry policies may vary by event. Smoking is not permitted in the venue.
- Payment Options: Wooly's is primarily a cashless venue. Credit and debit cards, and digital payment methods are accepted.
- Prohibited Items: Backpacks, professional cameras, audio recording equipment, and laser pointers are prohibited in the venue. Refer to the policy page for a complete list of prohibited items.
- Age Restrictions: Many concerts at Wooly's are all ages. However, some events may have age restrictions. Check the AXS event listing to learn about available ticket options.
For the most up-to-date guidance and information on regulations, including bag policies, check the official Wooly's policy page.
Discover other Venues in the Area
Wooly's isn't the only unique venue in Des Moines, Iowa.
- Val Air Ballroom: Another historic concert venue, Val Air Ballroom was originally built as an outdoor dance venue in the 1940s. It was later enclosed and became an indoor venue for music, dances, and other events. Today, the venue has a capacity of 2,500 people for standing room-only events.3
Wooly's Parking and Directions
With plenty of public parking and public transportation options, it's easy to get to Wooly's for a concert or other show.
Public Transportation: To get to Wooly's without a vehicle, you can utilize the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART), which has a stop close to the venue.
Driving: Wooly's is located at 504 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309. If you opt to drive to the venue for a concert, it's easy to find nearby parking options. The Capitol Complex Lot is a free parking lot near the venue. Street parking, other parking lots, and garages are also available near Wooly's.
- Capitol Complex Lot: Des Moines St, Des Moines, IA 50309
- Parking Garage: 308 E 6th St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Food & Drink at Wooly's
Outside food and drinks are not permitted in Wooly's. The venue does not sell snacks but offers a variety of water, beer, spirits, soft drinks, and other beverages for purchase at the bar.3
About Wooly's
In 1950, a Woolworth's department store had its grand opening in the building that today houses Wooly's. Woolworth's remained at this location for a little over 20 years. The building saw multiple uses over the next several decades. By 2012, the building had most recently been home to a headquarters for Occupy Des Moines.4
Wooly's was renovated, and a bar, green rooms, lighting, and a stage were added. It opened in 2012 as a music venue. It rapidly became one of Des Moines' most popular, hosting 12 to 20 shows a month.4