Let’s Bring Japanese Hanami to Des Moines
In Japan, the early spring is celebrated when flowering cherry trees bloom. This is called Hanami. Given that Iowa is sister state to Yamanashi Prefecture in Japan, is this a practice that could benefit us here?
Hidden History : Edna Griffin
The story of how a Des Moines woman became a civil rights pioneer and won a legal case against an establishment that would not serve her because she was black.
Get a Clue, Mr Hidden
Mr Hidden and company stop the murder of Mr Boddy during a CLUE themed escape room at Breakout Games in Urbandale.
“Get out of your own way, Mr Hidden.”
The story of how 2024 New Year’s Resolutions were made in the home of Matthew “Mr Hidden” von Schenkel.
Foxcroft Estate
What makes a place special? Mr Hidden ponders this at the metro’s most sought after new bed and breakfast Foxcroft Estate, which is more than just a pretty place to rest one’s head.
Tell the Newcomers About AE Dairy
Mr. Hidden calls upon the longtime residents of Des Moines to sing the praises of AE Dairy, the longtime local dairy producer and symbol of Iowa pride. In today’s post we try some of their products and share a recipe for Mr. Hidden’s French Toast.
In Review : Des Moines Poetry Workshop’s “Rest”
Mr. Hidden recounts a day of introspective artistic discovery while viewing “Rest”, a series of readings organized by the Des Moines Poetry workshop at the Des Moines Art Center.
Welcome to my E.D. Talk
A raw, honest, and introspective look into overcoming dysfunctional eating as a content creator living in Des Moines, Iowa.
Mr. Hidden Visits the Varsity Cinema
Serendipity prompts a Saturday matinée at an 85 year-old establishment in the Drake Neighborhood.
Comedian Matt Banwart Returns to Central Iowa
Mr. Hidden ponders the art-form of a stand up comedian ahead of a visit by native Iowan Matt Banwart to record his first album at Teehee’s comedy club in the Western Gateway.
Coral Thede at XBKLive : Authenticity on Display
Mr. Hidden recounts an evening of laughs, live music, and personal growth hosted by Des Moines’ own Coral Thede at xBkLive near Drake University.
Mr. Hidden and the Secret of the Equitable Spire
The gothic revival Equitable Building is one of Des Moines’ most famous landmarks. Take a deep dive into the hidden symbolism that has towered over Locus Street for almost a century, and read about my tour of the off-limits parts of the building.
HobNob Coffee and Wine bar Reviewed
A little background on Hobnob Coffee and Wine Bar, one of Des Moines most elevated spots for a cuppa’. This is part of my series Return to the Palace on Walnut Street in which I journal my thoughts on the prestigious and recently reopened Hotel Fort Des Moines.
Series : Return to the Palace On Walnut Street
Mr. Hidden shares some background on the recently reopened Hotel Fort Des Moines in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa. Managed under the Hilton umbrella and owned by Hawkeye Hotels of Coralville, this property is the premier example of historic rehabilitation in the state of Iowa.
Mr. Hidden Goes Car-Free
Thoughts on trying a car-free lifestyle in Des Moines, Iowa.
Mr. Hidden and The Art of Hiding Behind a Coffee Cup
Author Matthew von Schenkel recounts what it is like to make content for HDSM without being noticed. During a visit to Hotel Fort Des Moines, he uses a little green to-go cup to blend in.
Hi, I’m Mr. Hidden
Meet the creator and eye of HDSM.
Tomorrow, Hidden in Des Moines
Get to know the Rook Room, a business hosting a metro-wide scavenger hunt called Treasure Quest on Saturday, May 28th.
What’s with this gigantic swiss cheese?
Playful statuary by artist Nate Page is on display at the Botanical Gardens to promote awareness for water quality and rainscaping in Polk County and beyond.
I Had a Drink With Max Wellman
Reviewing an Iowa song bird’s performance at the Tea Room on March 5th, 2022.