Entry No. 8 — the Des Moines file — filed under: witchy

Ancient Ways

An eclectic 'ancient mysteries' shop on University Ave near Drake, open since 1997, packed with ethnic drums, books, music, herbs, incense, crystals, tarot and jewelry. Beyond the merch it hosts drum sessions and intuitive/metaphysical classes, giving it more of a longtime-community feel than a tourist boutique.

The move: Browse the curated clutter of drums and herbs, then come back for one of their drum circles or intuitive classes together for a hands-on, slightly trance-y night out.

📍 Before you go You'll find it as a street-level storefront on University Ave in the Drake neighborhood, right in the walkable Dogtown district just east of Drake University (roughly between 23rd and 25th). Street parking out front is the norm and walk-ins are welcome, so daytime through early evening is easiest for unhurried browsing. The drum circles and intuitive classes are scheduled evening events on a rotating calendar, so check ahead for the next one and ask whether you need to sign up rather than just dropping in. It's a small, longtime local shop rather than a big attraction, so pair it with the surrounding Dogtown coffee houses, cafes, and the Drake campus to round out the outing.

• 📍 Drake
• 💸 $
• ⚡ Up for anything
• 🌗 Indoors

Where: 2420 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311

Hours: Hours vary; verify before visiting

⚠ Seasonal or scheduled — always check before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: Yelp · evendo.com

last checked: 2026-06-06