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Paragon Prairie Tower: Iowa's Mosaic Marvel

Discover Urbandale's iconic Paragon Prairie Tower: A stunning mosaic tribute to Iowa's heartland and heritage.

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The Paragon Prairie Tower stands as an iconic landmark in Urbandale, Iowa, a testament to the region's cultural heritage and artistic innovation. This impressive structure, soaring 120 feet high, is more than just a visual spectacle; it's a symbol of the community's dedication to preserving its history and celebrating the Midwestern work ethic. The tower's most striking feature is its expansive glass mosaic mural, which stretches across 5,000 square feet. This vibrant tapestry, crafted from nearly 1.8 million tiles of Italian glass from Ravenna, depicts a colorful scene of the Iowa prairie, complete with wildflowers like coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, daisies, and clover amidst bluestem grass. The mosaic shimmers in the sunlight and is illuminated at night, creating a captivating visual experience. Designed by a team of artists from RDG Planning & Design, the Paragon Prairie Tower represents the spirit of Iowa and its people. It combines state-of-the-art technology with traditional craftsmanship, creating a unique blend of old and new. The tower is located at the entrance to Paragon Office Park, overlooking a four-acre lake and serving as a gathering place for community events. Visitors can stroll around the grounds, admiring the art installations and landscaping that enhance the overall experience. Informative plaques detail the tower's history and significance, providing context and enriching the experience.

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day for a quieter experience and better lighting for photographs.
  • Check for local events or exhibitions held at the tower during your visit.
  • Explore the surrounding park area for a lovely picnic spot.
  • Bring a camera to capture the intricate details of the tower and the scenic views.
  • Read the informative plaques near the tower to enhance your understanding of its history.
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A brief summary to Paragon Prairie Tower

  • Paragon Prairie Tower, 12150 Meredith Dr, Urbandale, Iowa, 50323, US

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Des Moines, take DART Bus Route 60 (Hickman) towards Urbandale. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes and get off at the stop at 12151 Meredith Drive. Walk about 5 minutes north on Meredith Drive to find Paragon Prairie Tower on your left. A single ride on DART is approximately $2.

  • Walking

    If you are within walking distance from Urbandale City Hall, head south on 86th St towards Douglas Ave. Continue straight for about 0.5 miles until you reach Meredith Dr. Turn left onto Meredith Dr. After approximately 0.3 miles, you will see Paragon Prairie Tower on your right at 12150 Meredith Dr.

  • Biking

    If you prefer biking, you can rent a bike from a local bike-sharing service. Start from downtown Des Moines and head west on the Riverwalk Trail, then connect to the Walnut Creek Trail. Follow the trail until you reach Meredith Drive. Turn left and bike about 2 miles north until you arrive at Paragon Prairie Tower, which will be on your right. Bike rentals vary in price.

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