Des Moines Art Center, West Des Moines Travel Guide

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Explore world-class art and architecture at the Des Moines Art Center, a cultural hub with free admission and stunning collections.

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Des Moines Art Center

The Des Moines Art Center, established in 1948, is a renowned art museum boasting a significant collection of modern and contemporary art. With free admission, the center offers exhibitions, educational programs, and a gift shop, all housed within three architecturally distinct buildings set in Greenwood Park.

A brief summary to Des Moines Art Center

4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, Westwood, Iowa, 50312, US
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Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-7 pm
Friday 10 am-7 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Des Moines Art Center.

Take a guided tour to learn more about the art and architecture.
Visit the Art Center Café for lunch or a snack.
Explore the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in downtown Des Moines, managed by the Art Center.
Check the Art Center's website for upcoming events and exhibitions.

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Explore Des Moines Art Center on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Des Moines Art Center, mapped for you.

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Astounding Art Walk in Des Moines Experience

$14.24

Getting There

Public Transport

The Des Moines Art Center is accessible via Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART). From DART Central Station, take a local route that services Grand Avenue. Check the DART Trip Planner for the most direct route based on your location. A single ride fare is $1.75.
Walking

From the Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand, head west on Grand Avenue. The Des Moines Art Center will be on your left within walking distance. The walk is less than a mile and should take approximately 15-20 minutes.
Driving

The Des Moines Art Center is located at 4700 Grand Avenue. From downtown Des Moines, take I-235 to exit 8A for 42nd Street. Head north on 42nd Street, then turn right onto Grand Avenue. The Art Center will be on your right. Free parking is available on site.

Discover more about Des Moines Art Center

The Des Moines Art Center stands as a cultural cornerstone in the Midwest, offering visitors an enriching experience through its diverse collection and stunning architecture. Founded in 1948, the Art Center has grown from its humble beginnings in the Des Moines Public Library to a complex of three interconnected buildings, each designed by a world-renowned architect: Eliel Saarinen, I.M. Pei, and Richard Meier.The original building, designed by Saarinen in 1948, showcases a blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. Pei's addition in 1968 brought a Modernist touch, while Meier's wing, completed in 1985, emphasizes natural light. The museum's collection spans from 1500 to the present day, featuring works by artists such as Edward Hopper, Jasper Johns, Andy Warhol, Claude Monet and Georgia O'Keeffe.Beyond its permanent collection, the Des Moines Art Center hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions and educational programs. Visitors can explore the Art Center Café or browse the Museum Shop for unique gifts. The Art Center also oversees the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in downtown Des Moines, further extending its reach and impact on the community. Admission to the Art Center is free, making it accessible to all.