The Capitol Room

315 East 5th Street

Des Moines, Iowa  50309

515.237.5500

 
   

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Capitol Room?

The Capitol Room is an approximately 4,000 sq. ft. facility located in the heart of Des Moines' historic East Village. Opened in the fall of 2006, it is the ideal choice for anyone who wants a tastefully-designed venue for any family event, reception, meeting or other special event. We are not located in Iowa's State Capitol building. Please see our map and directions.

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How can I see The Capitol Room?

The Capitol Room is shown by appointment. Please call 515.237.5500, or email us at info@capitoliowa.com to make arrangements.

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How many guests will The Capitol Room accommodate?

Depending on your seating arrangements and how the room is set up, we can host up to 275 guests for a seated dinner, or up to 420 guests standing for a cocktail reception.

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Do I have a choice about who I may use as a caterer?

That's one of the many beauties of The Capitol Room! You may use the caterer of your choice as long as it is licensed and insured in the state of Iowa, and is pre-approved by the Capitol Room.

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How do I book the date I want for my event?

All is takes is The Capitol Room's signed agreement and half of the rental fee.

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How long can my event last?

The Capitol Room allocates 5 hours for your actual event. Additional time is provided for set-up, decorating and clean-up.

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What does set-up and decorating consist of?

Set-up means arranging the tables and chairs according to where you want them for your event. Decorating is up to you, but most people have commented that The Capitol Room is so beautiful that the don't feel a lot of decorating is necessary.

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How many guests can sit at one of the round tables?

Eight (8) guests fit very nicely at our five-foot round tables. The Capitol Room also has a few tables of various size and shape.

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May I use candles?

Yes, candles are permitted as long as they are in votives, hurricanes or floating.

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When do I set-up and decorate for my event?

The Capitol Room provides up to a two (2) hour block of time for set-up and decorating.

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What clean-up am I required to do?

Clean-up means that whatever came into The Capitol Room for your event goes back out with you and that the area is reasonably clean and trash-free. The Capitol Room staff handles the sweeping, mopping and vacuuming.

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When does everyone need to be vacated from The Capitol Room?

Clean-up needs to be completed and everyone out of the building by no later than 12:00 midnight.

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Can I have a DJ or a band?

Yes. The Capitol Room has a dance floor, and most of the events held at the The Capitol Room have had some type of music. All vendors must be pre-approved.

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Is there a security/damage deposit required?

A refundable security deposit of $500.00 is required. If no deductions are required for damage or cleaning, your deposit will be returned within thirty (30) days following your event.

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Do I need to have security for my event?

If alcohol is served a Des Moines Police Officer is required to be present for the entirety of your event.

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Can I bring in my own alcohol?

The Capitol Room holds a state-issued liquor license and all alcoholic beverages must be purchased through The Capitol Room. View our Beverage Service Information.

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May I serve red wine?

Yes. Red wine is served by our bar.  View our Beverage Service Information.

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Will I need to bring cups for the bar and soft drink beverages?

The Capitol Room will provide appropriate-sized cups for the various types of beverages.

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Where do we park?

Parking spaces are abundant in the East Village. Street parking is free in the evenings and on the weekends. Various solid surface parking lots are available also throughout the East Village. Make sure to heed restrictions at the various lots.

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Does the Capitol Room accept credit cards?

Yes, we accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, PayPal and American Express for room rental, deposit and any pre-paid alcohol purchases.

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