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Des Moines Civic Center, West Des Moines Travel Guide

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Experience world-class performances at the Des Moines Civic Center, Iowa's premier performing arts venue, in the heart of downtown Des Moines.

The Des Moines Civic Center, opened in 1979, is a premier performing arts venue in downtown Des Moines, Iowa, hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and diverse events. With its excellent acoustics and a seating capacity of over 2,700, it's a cultural hub for the city.

A brief summary to Des Moines Civic Center

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

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

  • Arrive 20-30 minutes before your event to allow time for parking and finding your seat.
  • Consider purchasing valet parking in advance for Civic Center performances.
  • Check the Des Moines Performing Arts website for a complete schedule of upcoming events and box office hours.
  • Explore nearby restaurants for pre-theater dining.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Des Moines Civic Center is located downtown and is easily accessible on foot from many nearby hotels, restaurants, and attractions. From the Court Avenue District, walk south on 3rd Street to Walnut Street. The Civic Center will be on your right. Allow 5-10 minutes. Metered street parking is available, costing between $0.25 to $1.25 per hour, Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Evenings and weekends offer complimentary meter parking.

  • Public Transport

    The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) provides public transportation to the Civic Center. Several local routes serve the downtown area. From DART Central Station, walk two blocks north on 6th Avenue, then turn right onto Walnut Street. The Civic Center will be on your left. A single fare costs $1.75.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Des Moines. A ride from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to the Civic Center, located about 6 miles away, typically costs $15-25. A short ride from a downtown hotel should cost approximately $7-10.

  • Parking

    Several parking ramps are located near the Civic Center. The Fourth and Grand Parking Ramp and the Third and Court Parking Ramp are adjacent to the venue. Event parking fees are charged at most downtown ramps. Metered street parking is also available, costing $0.25 to $1.25 per hour, Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Valet parking is often available curbside during Civic Center shows.

Discover more about Des Moines Civic Center

The Des Moines Civic Center has been a cornerstone of the city's arts and culture scene since its opening on June 10, 1979. Following the closure of the KRNT Theater in 1972, Des Moines lacked a major cultural venue, spurring community leaders to create a not-for-profit performing arts center. The Civic Center was built thanks to a successful fundraising effort that raised $9.3 million in under 90 days.The Civic Center boasts a 2,744-seat theater, the largest in Iowa, and hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and ballets. The venue is also home to the 200-seat Stoner Theater, which hosts smaller theatrical productions and lectures. The Des Moines Civic Center is noted for its acoustics, ensuring an excellent audio experience for all attendees. No seat is more than 145 feet from the stage.Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, the Civic Center is part of Des Moines Performing Arts, which also operates the Temple Theater and Cowles Commons. Cowles Commons, a square block space just west of the Civic Center, hosts numerous events throughout the year and features public art. The Civic Center continues to be a must-visit destination for art lovers and those seeking unforgettable entertainment.

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Explore More of West Des Moines

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A vibrant downtown Des Moines public space featuring art, events, and an interactive fountain for community engagement and enjoyment.

Cowles Commons
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Discover the Des Moines Civic Center, the premier destination for performing arts in Iowa, where world-class shows and community spirit come together.

Des Moines Civic Center

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