What to know before attending the 2024 Iowa high school girls state basketball tournament
Are you ready for this year's Iowa high school girls state basketball tournament? Teams tip off on Monday, and if you haven't already started planning for your trip, now is the time.
Luckily for those descending upon Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines has plenty of options when it comes to food, parking and things to do in between matches.
Here's everything you should know if you're attending the 2024 Iowa high school girls state basketball tournament:
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When is the 2024 Iowa high school girls state basketball tournament?
The girls tournament quarterfinals begin at 10 a.m. Monday and the final game that evening should end around 10 p.m.
Tuesday follows the same schedule, while Wednesday's quarterfinals begin at 10 a.m. and should end around 9 p.m.
The semifinals begin at 10 a.m. Thursday and are expected to end that night around 8:15 p.m. Friday's semifinals begin at 10 a.m. and should end around 4:45 p.m.
Friday is also when the Class 5A and 3A state finals will be played, which begin at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., respectively.
On Saturday, the 4A title game begins at 2:30 p.m., the 2A title game will be played at 4:45 p.m. and the 1A title game will tip off at 7 p.m.
You can find the full schedule here.
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How to get tickets for the 2024 Iowa high school girls state basketball tournament
Tickets are sold by session at hyveetix.com. Children not yet in school do not need tickets for events. Tickets are general admission.
Wells Fargo Arena's clear-bag policy
Wells Fargo Arena has a clear-bag policy that fans must follow. Fans are allotted one of the following: A clear plastic bag (no larger than 12" x 12" x 6"), a small purse (no larger than 4.5" x 6.5") or a one gallon clear plastic freezer bag.
Diaper bags and binoculars (without a case) are allowed, but only after an inspection.
Wells Fargo Arena prohibits items such as umbrellas, oversized bags, signs, selfie sticks, laptops, iPads and knives. Click here to see the arena's full bag policy.
Downtown Des Moines parking
Parking in the downtown area of Des Moines uses a digital meter system.
Since 2022, traditional meters have been replaced by the ParkDSM payment system. Drivers can download the ParkDSM app or use a nearby kiosk. Using the app, customers can select their specific spot and pay directly from their phone using a card. The app will alert you when your time is almost up, and you can add additional time directly from your phone instead of walking back to the meter and adding change.
There are also free and paid surface parking lots and paid garages nearby. Free parking is also available on bridges over the Des Moines River but that is a longer walk to Well Fargo Arena.
ICYMI: How to pay for street parking in downtown Des Moines
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Downtown Des Moines restaurants
There are a handful of Des Moines' downtown restaurants within walking distance of Wells Fargo Arena if you're hungry for a bite or need to organize a Valentine's Day date in the middle of all of the tournament chaos.
The city has just about everything. Whether you're feeling a burger, sushi or something outside the box (like fried alligator), Des Moines has you covered.
There are many dining options across the river in East Village, as well.
More: Here are 5 restaurants to try near Wells Fargo Arena in downtown Des Moines
Food options in the downtown Des Moines skywalk
You won't need to grab a jacket or even walk outside to find some meal options in Des Moines.
The downtown Des Moines skywalk, which connects directly to Wells Fargo Arena, spans more than four miles across the city. You'll find pizza, sandwiches, and even Chinese food.
More: 2024 Des Moines skywalk dining guide: Where to find food downtown (without having to go outside)
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Coffee shops in downtown Des Moines
Need some energy before attending one of the earlier state wrestling matches? Or even an afternoon pick-me-up?
Downtown Des Moines boasts coffee shops, breakfast joints and doughnut shops.
More: A handy guide to coffee near Wells Fargo Arena, and how long it takes to get there
Hotels in downtown Des Moines near Wells Fargo Arena
If you're planning for a longer stay in downtown Des Moines, the city offers a variety of hotels and countless Airbnb rentals near Wells Fargo Arena. Click here to see a list of some nearby.
More: Plot your stay at one of 14 hotels near Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa high school girls state basketball tournament 2024: What to know
