Captain Roys, Birdland Marina and the NE Side Comeback?

Audio version:

Wade Thompson of Captain Roys came in the studio to discuss Shiver On The River but his comments on a pending East and North side resurgence, Birdland Marina, Highland Park, and Riverview caught our attention. In the last few years development has started and central Iowans have shown an interest in new development including at Birdland Marina. It’s an exciting time for the region, says Thompson.

What is Shiver on the River?

Wade Thompson, owner of Captain Roy’s in Des Moines, is redefining winter entertainment with Shiver on the River, a lively outdoor event designed to bring people together despite the cold. Inspired by Minnesota’s winter culture, Thompson aimed to create a local tradition that embraces Iowa’s frigid months rather than avoiding them. The event, which started as a small gathering, has grown significantly over the past seven years, now attracting hundreds of participants.

Shiver on the River offers an unconventional mix of activities, blending competition with community spirit. Attendees can participate in games like frozen turkey bowling, beer cooler curling, and the new “Hump and Bump Tube Racer.” The event also features live music, making it an all-day celebration. A highlight of this year’s lineup is an exhibition tug-of-war between Des Moines police officers and firefighters, adding a friendly rivalry to the festivities.

Beyond entertainment, the event serves as a fundraiser for Folds of Honor, an organization that provides educational support to military families. By partnering with local sponsors, Thompson has successfully built a winter tradition that not only entertains but also gives back to the community.

Revitalizing Des Moines’ NE Side

As part of the Birdland Master Plan, Thompson is actively involved in improving the Birdland Marina area. Plans include adding 100 new boat slips, relocating Captain Roy’s to a new flood-safe structure, and developing public amenities like playgrounds and a skating ribbon. These upgrades aim to transform the riverfront into a year-round destination, attracting more outdoor enthusiasts and strengthening the city’s connection to its waterways.

Thompson’s efforts reflect a broader push to reshape Des Moines’ relationship with the Des Moines River, positioning it as a hub for recreation and community gatherings, no matter the season.

Other plans in the area include the Highland Park neighborhood revitalization. Burger join LaChelle’s plans to move into the area within the week, joining Highland Bakery and The Slowdown coffee shop. The NE side of Des Moines has been neglected for years, but the river upgrades, in addition to the new Riverview entertainment area seem to be a tipping point in the area’s resurgence.