Discover the Artistic Treasures of Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Explore over 30 monumental sculptures in the heart of Des Moines at Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a vibrant outdoor art destination.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines offers a stunning outdoor experience featuring over 30 monumental sculptures. Perfect for art lovers and casual visitors alike, this vibrant park invites you to explore, relax, and appreciate the creative expressions of renowned artists in a picturesque setting.
A brief summary to Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- 1330 Grand Ave, Des Moines, Downtown Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, US
- +1515-237-1386
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-12 am
- Tuesday 6 am-12 am
- Wednesday 6 am-12 am
- Thursday 6 am-12 am
- Friday 6 am-12 am
- Saturday 6 am-12 am
- Sunday 6 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or later in the evening for a quieter experience and beautiful lighting for photos.
- Check the park's calendar for special events and guided tours to enhance your visit.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawns, as there are plenty of benches and open spaces to relax.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will likely do a fair amount of walking to explore the entire park.
- Don't miss the opportunity to take photos with the sculptures; they make for excellent backdrops.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from any location in Northwest Iowa, take I-80 East towards Des Moines. Follow I-80 for approximately 90 miles until you reach the exit for I-235. Merge onto I-235 East and continue for about 10 miles. Take exit 8A for 2nd Avenue toward Downtown Des Moines. Continue on 2nd Avenue and then turn left onto Grand Avenue. Pappajohn Sculpture Park will be on your left at 1330 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309. There is free street parking available in the vicinity.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
For travelers using public transportation, check local bus services that operate in Northwest Iowa, such as the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART). You can take a bus to the Downtown Des Moines area. Once you arrive at the Downtown area, you can either walk or take a short taxi ride to Pappajohn Sculpture Park located at 1330 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309. Please check the DART website for current bus routes and schedules.
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Rideshare
Another option for reaching Pappajohn Sculpture Park is to use a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft. Simply input the destination as Pappajohn Sculpture Park, 1330 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, in the app. The cost will vary based on your starting location in Northwest Iowa and the time of day, but expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50 for the ride depending on distance.
Discover more about Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden
0.2 km
Explore the Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden in Downtown Des Moines for a peaceful experience filled with stunning flora and innovative gardening inspiration.
Temple Theater
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting Temple Theater in Downtown Des Moines, a premier venue for performing arts, concerts, and community events.
Saint Paul's Episcopal Cathedral
0.6 km
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Saint Paul's Episcopal Cathedral, a hidden gem in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa.
Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker
0.7 km
Discover the legacy of resilience at the Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker, a tribute to Des Moines' vibrant Black business district history.
Herndon Hall
0.7 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of Herndon Hall, a captivating landmark in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa.
The Des Moines Building
0.9 km
Experience urban living at The Des Moines Building, where comfort meets convenience in the heart of Downtown Des Moines.
Polk County Historic Courthouse
1.0 km
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Court District
1.3 km
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Mahnke House
1.5 km
Discover the Mahnke House, a historical landmark in Des Moines, Iowa, showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage amidst serene gardens.
Witmer House
1.9 km
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State Historical Society of Iowa
2.3 km
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Middlesex Plat Historic District
2.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Giant Garden Trowel
0.4 km
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Des Moines Sky Walks
0.9 km
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The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction
0.9 km
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Cowles Commons
1.2 km
A vibrant downtown Des Moines public space featuring art, events, and an interactive fountain for community engagement and enjoyment.
Terrace Hill Historic Site
1.2 km
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Science Center of Iowa
1.2 km
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Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market
1.2 km
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Des Moines Civic Center
1.3 km
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World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
1.4 km
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Rotary Riverwalk Park
1.5 km
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Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
1.6 km
A stunning pedestrian bridge in Des Moines honoring Iowa's influential women, offering scenic views and a unique architectural experience.
Fort Des Moines II - Birthplace of Des Moines Memorial Cabin
1.6 km
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Gray's Lake Park
1.6 km
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Des Moines Historic District
1.6 km
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Augmented Reality Mural -interactive- on Northern-most half pike
1.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Americana
0.1 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Americana in Downtown Des Moines - where great food meets vibrant atmosphere.
Django
0.1 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Django in Downtown Des Moines – where culinary artistry meets elegant dining.
Allora Cafe
0.1 km
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The Walnut
0.2 km
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A Dong Restaurant
0.3 km
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Centro
0.4 km
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Proudfoot & Bird
0.5 km
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Bubba
0.5 km
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Malo
0.6 km
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Basil Prosperi
0.6 km
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801 Chophouse
0.6 km
Experience the finest steaks and seafood at 801 Chophouse in Downtown Des Moines - where culinary excellence meets elegant ambiance.
Aposto at the Scala House
0.6 km
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Mash + MARROW
0.7 km
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Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
0.8 km
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La Mie Elevate
0.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Plaza Shoppe
0.5 km
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Funky Finds Vintage & Retro
0.5 km
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Domestica
0.8 km
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Vzz Vintage
1.3 km
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MARNe
1.9 km
Explore MARNe in Des Moines' East Village for a unique boutique shopping experience filled with local artistry and curated goods.
Janes - Family Shop
1.9 km
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Chapter 2 Jewelry, Apparel, and Accessories
1.9 km
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May Eleven
1.9 km
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KIN
1.9 km
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She Home & Gift
2.0 km
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Wonderland Apothecary at Groovy Goods
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Groovy Goods Daydreams - Tobacco Pipes & Hippie Clothing
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Aimee
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Shop33
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Goldeneye Curations
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Carl's Place
0.5 km
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Juniper Moon
0.7 km
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Hello, Marjorie
0.7 km
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the LiFT
1.1 km
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The Copper Cup
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Pints Bar Rooftop - PBR Country
1.1 km
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Revival House
1.2 km
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Tonic Court Ave.
1.3 km
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Shorty's Somewhat Fancy Bar
1.3 km
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300 Craft & Rooftop
1.4 km
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El Bait Shop
1.4 km
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The High Life Lounge
1.4 km
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Star Bar
1.6 km
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Black Sheep
1.8 km
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Ken's - a not so secret speakeasy
1.9 km
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