Field Trips and Educator Resources
We work with students and educators to build connection through art. Explore resources to prepare for your student’s visit to the Des Moines Art Center or utilize for art education in the classroom.
The Des Moines Art Center’s school field trips, educational programs, and resources promote critical thinking, compassion, connection, and creativity by utilizing artwork in the collections and exhibitions.
Museum Learning and Engagement offers a variety of educational programs and resources to the community that utilize the artwork in the collections and exhibitions. We work with educators to engage students of all ages in dynamic conversations and activities that build critical thinking skills, creativity, cultural awareness, and a connection to the shared human experience.
There are many ways to engage students in growth and learning at the Des Moines Art Center. Guided tours and field trips cultivate open dialogue and active participation, ensuring students engage with art in ways that spark curiosity and critical thinking. Bring the galleries into your classroom with lesson plans and virtual tours to ignite imagination.
Museum Etiquette
Art museums are amazing places filled with fascinating things! It is true that art museums are not a place for touching, running, or climbing. This video helps visitors of all ages understand the role we each play in protecting and preserving the art.
Bus Parking and Drop Off
We’re happy to help navigate bus parking for your field trip at both the museum and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park after you have completed your tour request form. For further questions, please email tours@desmoinesartcenter.com.
Field Trip Social Narrative
Learn more about your upcoming visit to the Des Moines Art Center. This step-by-step guide is a great resource for younger students and those who may need extra preparation to feel comfortable and at ease during their museum experience.
Before Your Field Trip
Introduce your students to the Des Moines Art Center by sharing this video with any K-12 classroom. It will help them feel more prepared and excited for their upcoming visit. Additionally, the Field Trip Social Narrative is a great resource for younger students and those who may need extra preparation to feel comfortable and at ease during their museum experience.
Activity Guides
The Des Moines Art Center offers a variety of activity guides that can be utilized for educators and student projects. Explore ways to enhance your visit to either the museum or the Pappajohn Sculpture Park.
Scheduling a Field Trip
Interested in visiting with your students? The Des Moines Art Center offers free guided tours through the museum, as well as the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park.
Lesson Plans
Inspire learning through step-by-step explorations of art from the Des Moines Art Center. Bring the galleries into your classroom, igniting your students’ imaginations and creativity with these lesson plan downloads.