Point in case, free flicks at the Des Moines Art Center. Once a month, the museum busts out a massive inflatable screen and invite one and all to bring a blanket and bottle of wine to enjoy a movie under the stars. Lucas and I went with another couple making for a great little double date. We even commented that we didn't feel like we were in Des Moines. The weather was beyond perfect for July and the lawn was the perfect setting for the 1940s classic The Philadelphia Story starring Kathryn Hepburn and Carey Grant. I would guess about 150-200 people joined us for the black and white movie taking us into a messy love pentagon.
So if you're in the mood to get out n about, don't use Des Moines is boring as an excuse. Be open to new things and keep your eyes open. (Juice is a great place to check out events.)