Halloween in Iowa – Spooky Bars and a Horror-Themed Pubcade

You don't have to wait until October to enjoy this horror movie-themed bar & restaurant... it's ALWAYS spooky season at Monsterama Pubcade!

About Monsterama Pubcade

With Halloween on the way, Only in Your State recently published an article about Monsterama Pubcade, a unique business in Des Moines that's centered around classic horror movies and infamous monsters. The article reads:

"Festooned with a macabre decor that pays homage to some of the most famous and beloved horror movies of all time, the arcade is home to obscure video games and pinball machines themed after horror icons ranging from the Creature from the Black Lagoon to Count Dracula."

Monsterama is owned and operated by Iowa-natives Michele and Chris Pruisner, who also own Lucky Gal Tattoo. Their website says that the idea for the pubcade was all thanks to Chris' "lifelong love of all things spooky, quirky, and fun." It officially opened for business in 2022.

The Food

In addition to the pinball machines, arcade games, and other fun activities at Monsterama, they also have a food menu, all with horror-themed names. You can choose from the Tenderloin of Terror, the Frankenpatty, Werewolf Fingers, Terror Tots, and more! And, for drinks, there are a number of specialty cocktails and shots, like the 'Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice,' 'Vampire's Kiss,' or 'The Grave Digger.'

Hours

Monsterama Pubcade is open year-round from Wednesday through Sunday. The official business hours are:

• Wednesday & Thursday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Friday & Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
• Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

All ages are welcome at Monsterama Pubcade until 8 p.m. After 8, you must be 21 or older.

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READ MORE: 25 Haunted Attractions to Check Out This Fall in Iowa [GALLERY]

Halloween Pop-Ups

As far as temporary Halloween-themed bars & restaurants go, there are a few of those open right now, too! Here are a few of the Iowa pop-ups you can check out this month:

• Nightmare on Ingersoll at The Station on Ingersoll, Des Moines

• Wicked Heights at The Republic on Grand (Rooftop), Des Moines

• The Haunting at Exile Brewing Co., Des Moines

• Alice in Wonderland Pop-Up at The Spot Bar & Lounge, Davenport