Take a Tour
The Des Moines Art Center offers free guided tours and group visits through the museum, as well as the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park.
Tours strive to enhance our visitor’s Art Center experience and engagement. Docent guided tours and visitor 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.
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. To avoid overlap with large guided tours, we ask that groups of 10 or more request a touring time in advance. For questions or more information on tours, please email tours@desmoinesartcenter.com.
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 or complete our tour request form.
Guided Museum Tours
Experience the Art Center with friends, family, and fellow art lovers while learning more about the works on view in the galleries! Free guided tours at the Art Center occur every Saturday starting at 1 pm; meet in the Macomber Lobby.
Field Trips and Educator Resources
We work with students and educators to build connection through art. Explore resources to prepare for your student’s field trip to the Des Moines Art Center or utilize activities for art education in the classroom.
More Ways to Tour
Art Center Audio Tours
Learn about art! Listen to audio content about works in the permanent collections and Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Hear from artists, museum staff, and more.
Visiting the Museum with Your Family
There are many joys in visiting the Des Moines Art Center with family and children. Watch this short video for tips to ensure your next (or first) family visit to the art museum is the best one ever!
Art Center Grounds Walking Guide
This walking guide navigates the sculptures on the grounds of the Art Center nestled in Des Moines’ Greenwood Park.