A gem in the heart of the Midwest, the Des Moines Art Center offers something for everyone.

The name is no mistake. This is not only a museum space. An Art Center is for art-making and art appreciation. This has been foundational to the organization since the beginning. The art collection includes works important in the story of Western art history. The works are much newer but are no less awe-inspiring.

Fans of architecture will appreciate the museum structure. There are three interconnected buildings by Eliel Saarinen, I. M. Pei, and Richard Meier.

The museum abuts lush Greenwood Park. The outdoor space has major works by Andy Goldsworthy and Richard Serra. The natural environment features a pond by artist Mary Miss.

Exhibitions
Collections
Virtual Tours

The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a short five-minute drive from the museum.

The sculpture park is a great place to take photos! It features one of Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE sculptures, a giant spider by Louise Bourgeois, and Jaume Plensa’s Nomade.

Plan Your Visit