Road trip tips for Des Moines

Iowa Wild and Wolves

The Wild plays at home next Friday night against the Grand Rapids Griffins, with the Wolves at home next Saturday against the Agua Caliente Clippers. After that, the next chance to see them both at home the same weekend is Jan. 20 (Wild vs. Milwaukee Admirals) and Jan. 21 (Wolves vs. Reno Bighorns).

Tickets: Wolves tickets range from $10-$32, and Wild tickets range from $10-$45. Their websites (Iowa.gleague.nba.com and Iowawild.com) also have courtside and rink-side seating promotions.

Des Moines (About 245 miles south, on I-35)

Where to stay: Numerous downtown hotels offer weekend discounts on travel websites, all within walking distance of Wells Fargo Arena.

Pregame food and drinks: Buzzard Billy's sports bar is two blocks south of the arena, featuring a Cajun Creole menu and two bars, including one called "The Penalty Box."

Nightlife: The 1908 Draught House and El Bait Shop are two popular destinations about a half-mile from the arena. Court Avenue is lined with other bars and restaurants.

JOE CHRISTENSEN