Tours strive to enhance our visitor’s Art Center experience. Docent guided tours, and our self-guided tour resources help viewers look deeper at art, promote education, and build connection.

Tours are as interactive as the group would like, addressing the permanent collections as well as special exhibitions on view. Guided tours are welcome during museum hours and should be reserved in advance. We offer a variety of accessible tours based on individual needs at both the museum and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park.

Unable to make in to the Des Moines Art Center in person? Let us bring the art to you! Take a virtual tour and ‘walk’ through the galleries to view and learn about artworks.

take a virtual tour

To ensure we can accommodate your group, we ask that you submit your tour request at least three weeks in advance of your preferred date. Self-guided groups of 10 or more should request a touring time in advance. 

Guided Tours

Art Calls

Art Calls brings the guided museum tour experience to groups for whom transportation or mobility may be a barrier. To schedule Art Calls and have an Art Center docent visit your independent assisted living or memory care facility, please email tours@desmoinesartcenter.com.

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Drop In Tours

Experience the Art Center with friends, family, and fellow art lovers while learning more about the works on view in the galleries during weekly drop in tours.  Free drop in tours at the Art Center are every Saturday starting at 1 pm; meet in the Macomber Lobby.

Plan Your Visit

Accessible Guided Tours

We offer a variety of accessible tours based on individual needs at both the museum and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Depending on studio availability, a tour and art project can be scheduled. Email tours@desmoinesartcenter.org to schedule an accessible guided tour.

Accessibility at the Art Center

explore the Museum at Home

Virtual Tours

Virtual tours of the Art Center’s permanent collections and special exhibitions allow visitors to click through as if they were at the museum, walking through the galleries.

SEE ALL VIRTUAL TOURS

Self-Guided Tours

Art Center Permanent Collections Audio Tour

Learn about art! Listen to audio content about works in the permanent collections. Hear from artists, museum staff, and more.

Listen Now

Pappajohn Sculpture Park Audio Tour

While at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, use your cell phone to learn more about the works of art as you explore, or listen online from the comfort of home.

Listen Now

Art Center Grounds Walking Guide

This walking guide navigates the sculptures on the grounds of the Art Center nestled in Des Moines’ Greenwood Park.

TAKE THE TOUR

Admission is free! Start planning your visit today.
Plan Your Visit