Des Moines Art Center

Des Moines Art Center which includes interior views and art
Des Moines Art Center featuring art and interior views
Des Moines Art Center showing interior views
Des Moines Art Center showing outdoor eating, outdoor art and a pond
Des Moines Art Center which includes interior views and art


Spend time admiring the architectural lines of this art and education center before heading inside to view its outstanding collection.

Iowa’s Des Moines Art Center is fascinating, as it brings together the designs of three prolific architects of the 20th century: Eliel Saarinen, I.M. Pei and Richard Meier. Walk around the building to fully appreciate its unique juxtaposition of separate designs consisting of stone, concrete and porcelain on metal.

The building is a combination of art gallery and education center and provides interactive tours for involvement with many of the exhibits. Peruse fascinating temporary and permanent exhibits with a focus on modern and contemporary art. Plan to spend a good part of a day at the center to view its more than 5,000 pieces, including some from individual collections.

Many educational programs offered to students and youth promote self-expression through art. Join other activities for families and adults as well.

Find older pieces of art placed alongside contemporary works for comparison, similar to the way the actual building has been constructed using various designs. View works from artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Eva Hesse, Jeff Koons, Constantin Brancusi, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Sol LeWitt, Donald Judd and many more.

After your tour inside, look outside for the display of sculptures that serves as a continuation of the center’s exhibits. Tour the creative forms in the 4.4-acre (1.8-hectare) John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park that uses land features to highlight more than 20 large works of art. Pieces include a giant spider, white and black snowmen and an immense white ghost.

Stop at the restaurant and museum shop and visit the courtyard and nearby garden that are perfect for relaxing or taking a stroll.

Come to Des Moines Art Center during open hours every day except Mondays and certain holidays. Admission and parking are free. Register for guided or self-guided tours online for the center and the sculpture park. Tours can be arranged for visitors with special visual needs.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

3 out of 5
2650 University Ave., Des Moines, IA
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton

4.5 out of 5
1000 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA
Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton
Des Lux Hotel

Des Lux Hotel

3.5 out of 5
800 Locust St, Des Moines, IA
Des Lux Hotel
Days Inn by Wyndham West Des Moines

Days Inn by Wyndham West Des Moines

2 out of 5
1258 8th St, West Des Moines, IA
Days Inn by Wyndham West Des Moines
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport

2 out of 5
1901 Hackley Ave, Des Moines, IA
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Family-friendly Des Moines Retreat w/ Patio!

Family-friendly Des Moines Retreat w/ Patio!

3 out of 5
Des Moines
Family-friendly Des Moines Retreat w/ Patio!
Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG

Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG

3 out of 5
1050 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA
Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG
Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown

3 out of 5
418 6th Avenue, Des Moines, IA
Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown
Hilton Des Moines Downtown

Hilton Des Moines Downtown

3.5 out of 5
435 Park Street, Des Moines, IA
Hilton Des Moines Downtown
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Des Moines Art Center

At the Des Moines Art Center, visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of activities, including engaging art classes tailored for art lovers. Nearby attractions include thrilling sports events, vibrant festivals, and basketball games. Additionally, the centre serves as a unique venue for auto shows and bachelor parties, while nature enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching in the surrounding areas, making it a well-rounded destination for all interests.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Des Moines Art Center, visit Merle Hay Mall and Valley West Mall, both within 6.4km, offering a range of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, don't miss the Downtown Farmers' Market, also just 4.8km away.

Recreation

At Principal Park, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere while enjoying a game. Val Air Ballroom offers an entertaining music experience just 1.6km away. For relaxation, Raccoon River Park provides a serene environment for leisurely walks and unwinding amidst nature, also located three miles from the art centre.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Air Lanes Bowling Center, located 4.8km from the Des Moines Art Center, where friendly competition awaits. For hiking enthusiasts, the scenic Greenbelt Trail, 6.4km away, offers beautiful outdoor vistas. For karting excitement, visit Pole Position Raceway, 12.9km from the Centre, for an adrenaline rush.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Des Moines Art Center at Hoyt Sherman Place and Lauridsen Amphitheater, both offering captivating performances just 3.2km away. For a more intimate setting, the Des Moines Community Playhouse, located 1.1km away, promises cultural entertainment and family-friendly vibes.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Des Moines Art Center

Visitors to the Des Moines Art Center can enjoy a variety of attractions, including event venues, entertainment arenas, and fairgrounds, making it a vibrant cultural hub. Families will find plenty of outdoor experiences to explore, while art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the creative offerings of the centre. Whether you're looking for cultural enrichment or leisurely activities, the area around the art centre promises a delightful experience for all travellers.

  • Drake University: Located two miles from the Des Moines Art Center, Drake University boasts a vibrant campus atmosphere. Its modern architecture and lush green spaces create a perfect blend of education and city vibes, making it a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll or a quick coffee.
  • Wells Fargo Arena: Just three miles away, Wells Fargo Arena is a hub of family entertainment. Hosting concerts, sporting events, and shows, it promises an exciting experience for all ages, making it an ideal destination for a fun-filled day.
  • Iowa State Fairgrounds: Situated seven miles from the art centre, the Iowa State Fairgrounds offers a lively outdoor experience. Known for its family-friendly events, it’s the perfect place to enjoy local culture, food, and festivities.

Best time to go to Des Moines Art Center

The best time to visit Des Moines Art Center is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January21.7°F (-5.7°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February24.1°F (-4.4°C)No RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
March39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
April50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June71.8°F (22.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November40.5°F (4.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December29.3°F (-1.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Des Moines Art Center

For a budget-friendly visit to the Des Moines Art Center, consider travelling between November and January when accommodation prices are lower. Aim for a Monday stay to save even more, as Saturdays tend to be the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location, and sort results from lowest to highest price for the best deals. Look into package options that combine flights and hotel bookings for additional savings. Also, explore free activities in the area and utilise public transport to keep travel costs down.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Des Moines Art Center are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Des Moines Art Center is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Des Moines Art Center is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To discover the most economical options and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation at the Des Moines Art Center with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.