Paragon Prairie Tower, West Des Moines Travel Guide

The Paragon Prairie Tower, located at the entrance to Paragon Office Park in Urbandale, Iowa, stands as a vibrant tribute to the state's prairie heritage. Completed in 2007, this 120-foot-tall tower is covered in nearly 1.8 million Italian glass mosaic tiles, creating a stunning visual representation of the Iowa prairie landscape.The tower's design, conceived by a team of artists including David Dahlquist, showcases a colorful mosaic of native wildflowers such as coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, daisies, and clover amidst bluestem grass. The shimmering glass tiles, manufactured in Ravenna, Italy, capture the light and create a dynamic, ever-changing display that can be seen from afar. At night, the tower is illuminated, further enhancing its visual impact.More than just an aesthetic landmark, the Paragon Prairie Tower serves as a cultural icon for the state of Iowa. It represents the Midwestern work ethic and the importance of preserving the region's natural resources. Plaques at the base of the tower tell the story of the tower and the surrounding landscape, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of its significance. The area around the tower provides a serene atmosphere for leisurely strolls and contemplation.