Hello!
Ok, well, restaurants here range from the ethnically eclectic to the very mainstream/cookie cutter eateries to everything in between. So, yes, I would say that in my opinion, there are definitely lots of cool restaurants, although, the authentic Chinese and Vietnamese restaurants are lacking. Ok, I am a hardcore carnivore, but even as a vegetarian, I don't think that you'll have too much of a problem finding suitable cuisine around here. Many restaurants offer meatless dishes. It's just a matter of scanning the menu and exploring. Here are some of my favorite places:
Ethnic/unique: Nut Pob (Thai, S. DSM), Aguila Real (Mexican, WDM), China Chef (great cheap lunch, S. DSM), China Cafe (great cheap lunch, Johnston), House of Hunan (good take-out/delivery, WDM), Ohana (Japanese, WDM), Mezzodi's (Italian, S. DSM), Cosi Cucina (Italian, Urbandale), Waterfront (seafood, best clam chowder, WDM), Felix and Oscar's (delicious deep dish pizza, N. DSM), 801 Steakhouse (pricey but delicious, DT DSM), Noodle Zoo (make your own noodle dish plus sandwiches, WDM), Stella's (50's diner with best malts, Urbandale)
Chains: Cheesecake Factory, P.F. Chang's, Buzzard Billy's, Cucina Brava Italiana, Granite City, Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Cracker Barrel, Rock Bottom Brewery, Baker's Square, Panera, Panchero's
The list of restaurants goes on and on, and I still have many, many more restaurants on my list that I have yet to try. You may also consider picking up a city guide at the grocery store for more options.
As for coffee shops, there are plenty of non-chain ones that I always drive past and forget. It is my goal to actually refuse Starbuck's for one of these places. It's been hard for me to find a shop that compares to the Mill in Lincoln, NE.
It seems like there are lots of trails that you would be able to hike, but I can't give you very much info about the outdoor winter activities. You may have to travel a little further north in Iowa but I don't think you'll find anything near Colorado quality. That may be something worth Googling and then exploring.
Hope I could be of some help!