Des Moines Art Center: A Midwest Gem
Explore world-class art and architecture at the Des Moines Art Center, a cultural hub with free admission and stunning collections.
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
- +1515-277-4405
- Visit website
- 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
Local tips
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Witmer House
2.0 km
Discover the rich history and unique antiques at the Witmer House, a must-visit historical landmark in Des Moines, Iowa.
Middlesex Plat Historic District
2.1 km
Explore the Middlesex Plat Historic District in Des Moines, Iowa, where history, architecture, and culture intertwine to create a memorable travel experience.
Mahnke House
2.3 km
Discover the Mahnke House, a historical landmark in Des Moines, Iowa, showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage amidst serene gardens.
Herndon Hall
3.1 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of Herndon Hall, a captivating landmark in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa.
West Des Moines Iowa
3.2 km
Discover West Des Moines: Where history meets modern attractions, from Valley Junction's charm to Jordan Creek's shopping and Raccoon River Park's nature.
Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden
3.6 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.
Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker
4.0 km
Discover the legacy of resilience at the Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker, a tribute to Des Moines' vibrant Black business district history.
Temple Theater
4.2 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
4.3 km
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Saint Paul's Episcopal Cathedral, a hidden gem in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa.
The Des Moines Building
4.7 km
Experience urban living at The Des Moines Building, where comfort meets convenience in the heart of Downtown Des Moines.
Polk County Historic Courthouse
4.8 km
Explore the majestic Polk County Historic Courthouse, a stunning architectural gem symbolizing Des Moines' rich history and culture.
River Bend Neighborhood
5.0 km
Experience tranquility in the heart of Des Moines at River Bend Neighborhood Park, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families.
Court District
5.1 km
Discover the unique community spirit and vibrant culture of the Court District in downtown Des Moines, where art and non-profit initiatives thrive.
Unmissable attractions to see
Clare and Miles Mills Rose Garden
0.2 km
Discover over 200 rose varieties in a serene Des Moines garden, a vibrant and fragrant escape within Greenwood Park.
Greenwood - Ashworth Park
0.4 km
Explore the enchanting Greenwood - Ashworth Park in Des Moines, Iowa, a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and family-friendly fun.
Salisbury House & Gardens
0.9 km
Explore the exquisite Salisbury House & Gardens, a cultural treasure in Des Moines, Iowa, blending historic architecture with stunning gardens.
Des Moines Water Works Park
1.9 km
Explore 1,500 acres of natural beauty, recreation, and community events at Des Moines Water Works Park, an urban oasis in Des Moines.
Terrace Hill Historic Site
2.7 km
Explore the stunning Terrace Hill Historic Site in Des Moines, Iowa, a remarkable mansion showcasing the state's rich history and elegant architecture.
Taste of the Junction Music Festival
2.7 km
A vibrant multicultural festival in West Des Moines' Historic Valley Junction, celebrating community, culture, and cuisine through music and arts.
Gray's Lake Park
3.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Gray's Lake Park, a beautiful urban oasis in Des Moines, offering stunning views, outdoor activities, and a perfect escape.
Giant Garden Trowel
3.4 km
Discover the Giant Garden Trowel in Downtown Des Moines, a captivating sculpture celebrating the city's horticultural heritage and artistic charm.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
3.8 km
Explore Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a stunning outdoor gallery in Downtown Des Moines showcasing contemporary art amidst beautiful landscapes.
Ashby Park
4.6 km
Experience the tranquility of Ashby Park, a lush urban retreat in Des Moines, perfect for picnics, walks, and family fun amidst nature's beauty.
Des Moines Sky Walks
4.7 km
Discover the interconnected beauty of downtown Des Moines with the Sky Walks, a unique pedestrian experience connecting attractions, shops, and eateries.
The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction
4.7 km
Experience the ultimate fright at The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction in Des Moines, IA, where fear meets entertainment in a thrilling adventure.
Cowles Commons
4.9 km
A vibrant downtown Des Moines public space featuring art, events, and an interactive fountain for community engagement and enjoyment.
Science Center of Iowa
5.0 km
Explore the Science Center of Iowa for an engaging journey through science, technology, and discovery in the heart of Des Moines.
Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market
5.0 km
Discover the heart of Des Moines at the Downtown Farmers' Market, where local flavors and vibrant culture come together every Saturday morning.
Essential places to dine
Jesse's Embers
1.7 km
Discover culinary excellence at Jesse's Embers – Des Moines' premier steakhouse offering fine dining with an inviting atmosphere.
Eatery A
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Eatery A in Des Moines – where every dish tells a story.
Cheese Bar
2.0 km
Discover the ultimate American dining experience at Cheese Bar in Des Moines, featuring unique drinks and delicious cheese-infused dishes.
Harbinger
2.2 km
Experience innovative New American cuisine at Harbinger, where local ingredients meet culinary artistry in Des Moines.
Lachele's Fine Foods
2.3 km
Discover Lachele's Fine Foods in Des Moines: Where American cuisine meets seasonal creativity for an unforgettable dining experience.
St. Kilda Collective
2.5 km
Explore St. Kilda Collective: A vibrant restaurant blending artisanal flavors with community spirit in West Des Moines.
Noah's Ark Ristorante
2.6 km
Discover the essence of Italy at Noah's Ark Ristorante in Des Moines - where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.
Heavenly Asian Cuisine & Lounge
2.6 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Heavenly Asian Cuisine & Lounge in West Des Moines—where every dish tells a story.
Cooper's on 5th
2.6 km
Experience delectable American cuisine and craft cocktails at Cooper's on 5th in West Des Moines' charming Valley Junction.
Chuck Celsi's Tavern Restaurant
2.7 km
Experience mouthwatering pizzas and vibrant nightlife at Chuck Celsi's Tavern Restaurant in West Des Moines.
Paula's Cafe
2.7 km
Experience delightful comfort food at Paula's Cafe in West Des Moines' historic Valley Junction - where every meal feels like home.
G Mig's 5th Street Pub
2.8 km
Experience the best of Valley Junction at G Mig's 5th Street Pub - where great food meets lively atmosphere in West Des Moines.
Gilroy's Kitchen + Pub + Patio
2.8 km
Discover the flavors of America at Gilroy's Kitchen + Pub + Patio - where comfort food meets lively atmosphere in West Des Moines.
Aposto at the Scala House
3.3 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Aposto at the Scala House in Des Moines—where tradition meets modern dining.
Simon's
3.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Simon's in Des Moines - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pop & Nod
1.2 km
Explore Pop & Nod, a charming boutique in Des Moines, offering unique gifts, baby items, and stylish clothing for discerning shoppers.
Shops At Roosevelt
1.2 km
Discover a shopper's paradise at Shops At Roosevelt in Des Moines, Iowa, offering diverse stores, delicious dining, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Worn-A Modern Resale Boutique
1.2 km
Explore Worn, Des Moines' modern consignment boutique for unique women's clothing, handbags, shoes, and sustainable fashion.
Enchanted Mystical Boutique
1.3 km
Explore a magical realm at the Enchanted Mystical Boutique, where spirituality meets unique gifts in the heart of Des Moines.
Shop33
1.8 km
Explore the enchanting world of metaphysical supplies at Shop33 in Des Moines, where spiritual wellness meets unique treasures.
Hinge
2.6 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds at Hinge, a charming boutique in Valley Junction, West Des Moines, offering local craftsmanship and a delightful shopping experience.
Bing's
2.7 km
Discover Bing's in Valley Junction for an eclectic mix of gifts, games, and garden decor that captures the spirit of West Des Moines.
Happy DSM
2.7 km
Explore Happy DSM, a charming gift shop in West Des Moines, offering unique local crafts and souvenirs that celebrate Iowa's vibrant culture.
Iowa Made Market
2.7 km
Explore Iowa Made Market for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of Iowa in every piece.
Heart of Iowa Market Place
2.7 km
Explore the Heart of Iowa Market Place for unique gifts, gourmet groceries, and local treasures in the charming Valley Junction of West Des Moines.
Judy K's
2.7 km
Explore Judy K's Gift Shop for unique handmade treasures and local art in the heart of Valley Junction, West Des Moines, IA.
The Spice & Tea Exchange of West Des Moines
2.7 km
Discover a world of exotic flavors at The Spice & Tea Exchange of West Des Moines, where spices and teas inspire culinary creativity.
Sisters
2.7 km
Explore Sisters Boutique in Valley Junction for unique apparel, jewelry, and gifts that embody local artistry and creativity.
Memory Lane
2.7 km
Discover unique vintage treasures at Memory Lane, a charming antique store in West Des Moines, perfect for history lovers and collectors.
The Vinyl Studio
2.7 km
Explore The Vinyl Studio, where fashion meets music in a boutique experience you won't forget!
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sully's Irish Pub
1.9 km
Sully's Irish Pub: A lively Irish bar in West Des Moines offering delicious food, a vast drink selection, and vibrant live entertainment.
Star Bar
2.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of food, drinks, and vibrant atmosphere at Star Bar in Des Moines, Iowa.
Champions Hideaway
2.6 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Champions Hideaway, a cozy bar in Valley Junction with a welcoming atmosphere and delightful drinks.
Winchester Public House
2.7 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance and exquisite cocktails at Winchester Public House in Valley Junction, a must-visit cocktail bar for all travelers.
Juniper Moon
3.1 km
Experience the unique cocktail culture at Juniper Moon, a must-visit bar in Des Moines offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
Cattoors On Grand
3.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cattoors On Grand, a karaoke bar in West Des Moines where unforgettable nights and great company await.
Ladder 13
3.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious offerings at Ladder 13, West Des Moines' favorite bar for fun and relaxation.
Carl's Place
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Carl's Place, a cozy bar in Des Moines offering a wide selection of drinks and lively entertainment.
Kathy's Irish Pub
4.2 km
Discover the charm of Ireland at Kathy's Irish Pub in Des Moines, where hearty meals and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Hello, Marjorie
4.5 km
Experience the creative cocktail culture of Des Moines at Hello, Marjorie, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await.
Smoking Goat Pub
4.5 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Smoking Goat Pub in Des Moines, Iowa, where great food and drinks await in a welcoming setting.
The Ridgemont
4.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse drink selection at The Ridgemont, Windsor Heights' favorite local bar for relaxation and socializing.
the LiFT
4.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Des Moines at The LiFT, a trendy bar and nightclub offering craft cocktails and unforgettable entertainment.
The Copper Cup
4.9 km
Discover The Copper Cup, a vibrant bar in Downtown Des Moines, offering craft cocktails, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Pints Bar Rooftop - PBR Country
5.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Des Moines at Pints Bar Rooftop, where stunning views and great drinks create unforgettable moments.
