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Pappajohn Sculpture Park: A Downtown Oasis of Art

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Discover world-class modern art in the heart of Des Moines at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a unique and accessible urban oasis.

The Pappajohn Sculpture Park in downtown Des Moines is a 4.4-acre park featuring over 30 sculptures by internationally acclaimed artists. Open to the public from sunrise to midnight, it offers a unique blend of art and nature in an accessible urban setting.

A brief summary to Pappajohn Sculpture Park

  • 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 during the day to fully appreciate the details and artistry of each sculpture under natural light.
  • Take advantage of the free audio tour by calling (515) 657-8264 to learn more about the sculptures and the artists.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawn, but remember to dispose of waste properly and avoid bringing glass bottles.
  • Check the Des Moines Art Center website for information on guided tours and special events.
  • On-street metered parking is available, and it's free on Sundays. Consider visiting then for a relaxed experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Des Moines Public Library, walk two blocks south on 10th Street, then turn right onto Grand Avenue. The park will be on your right. This is a free and straightforward approach.

  • Public Transport

    DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority) offers several bus routes that stop near the park. Check the DART website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride fare is typically $1-2.

  • Driving

    From Interstate 235, take the 12th Street exit and head south. Turn right onto Grand Avenue. Metered street parking is available around the park. Parking costs $1.25 per hour, with a 4-hour maximum. Free parking is available on Sundays.

Discover more about Pappajohn Sculpture Park

The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, is a unique cultural attraction that seamlessly blends art with the urban landscape. Opened in 2009, the 4.4-acre park showcases a collection of over 30 sculptures donated by philanthropists John and Mary Pappajohn. The park is an extension of the Des Moines Art Center and serves as a pedestrian-friendly entryway to the city's core. The park's sculptures are strategically arranged to guide visitors through a curated experience, transitioning from realistic human and animal forms on the east side to abstract and conceptual pieces towards the west. Notable works include Jaume Plensa's 'Nomade,' a 27-foot-tall human figure constructed from steel letters, and Ugo Rondinone's series of primitive heads resembling Easter Island sculptures. Visitors are allowed to interact with Scott Burton's 'Seating for Eight,' which offers a resting place within the art. The Pappajohn Sculpture Park has revitalized downtown Des Moines, spurring economic development and becoming a gathering place for the community. The park is open from sunrise to midnight, offering free admission and guided tours from April through October. Visitors can also enjoy self-guided audio tours via cell phone.

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