Pappajohn Sculpture Park
About Pappajohn Sculpture Park
We know that art centers and museums are popular for the family to visit because it's such a great cultural experience, but what about if there was a 4.4 acre park filled with artwork from 22 of the most celebrated artist in the world?
You're in luck! Welcome to Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines. Associated with the Des Moines Art Center, this park is some to some pretty incredible pieces of art, and it's also a place where you can enjoy the great outdoors and the atmosphere of the city!
When you enter from the pedestrian friendly entrance in downtown Des Moines, you are transported into a world of stunning landscape design. It's unlike any other sculpture park in the entire USA!
From April to October, you can enjoy guided tours of the park is you want to learn a bit more of the park (but make sure you book in advance).
Otherwise, just grab the family, maybe take a picnic and definitely take your camera, and enjoy a park with a difference! There is plenty of space for kids to run and play, and the older ones will be able to begin appreciating art. It will open their eyes to the art world, where it doesn't have to just come in the form of painting! Art can be anything!
Culture, fun, sun, and the wonderful outdoors...all wrapped up in one at Pappajohn Sculpture Park! Have an inspired family day out in Iowa!
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Suggest editHow much does it cost?
Suggest editAdults Free
Children Free
Last Update 2022
Weather forecast
Today
22 F overcast clouds
Sat
23 F overcast clouds
Sun
27 F few clouds
Mon
40 F broken clouds
Tues
35 F few clouds
Activity reviews
Pappajohn Sculpture Park FAQ’s
Doing our bit
The park have provided some of the most amazing art works for families to enjoy. Help them out and follow any regulations they might have to ensure their longevity!
I’m Hungry! Can I get food at Pappajohn Sculpture Park?
Bring a picnic! Just keep the food and drink away from the sculptures, and no glass bottles. It's a great way to really extend the day
Any top tips when visiting?
Don't forget your camera!
Teachers corner
You can book guided tours between April 1 and October 31, at least 3 weeks in advance. They also have educator resources for teachers!
Does Pappajohn Sculpture Park have healthy eating or Vegan options?
It always helps to take bottled water to stay hydrated, and some healthy snacks
Is Pappajohn Sculpture Park fully accessible?
The park is accessible so everyone is welcome!
Any additonal information?
They want to preserve the artworks so no climbing, touching, or sitting on the sculptures please!
Rate & Write a Review
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A Google User
10 years ago
Apart from one interesting sculpture others are boring. Also i visited on Sunday evening at 6 and the city was deserted. All shops closed by then. I would never stop at this city again.
A Google User
10 years ago
As a person new to Des Moines, I can tell you that the sculpture park downtown is truely unique and provides a very pleasant break from the regular urban scenery. I know people will always debate about who spent money on what, but all the works are mind-expanding, beautiful, and often very fun and gigantic. Deal with it. The only thing that would make it better is having stories or descriptions attatched to the peices. I'd love to know where they all come from, what inspired the artist, etc. It's a great park and a sparkling addition to urban development in Des Moines. Speaking as an outsider who's not from here, of course. I'm assuming they want to attract more peope like me. This park does that.
Lynn Bohn
10 years ago
Enjoy the Italian Festa this Friday, July 26 & Saturday, July 27.
Jake monahan
10 years ago
A great place to kick back relax and read a book.
Nick OHara
10 years ago
Great park to walk around during a nice day/evening. There's a Subway, Jimmy John's, Smokey D's, Bandit Burrito, and Americana within a half-block of the park, so it's great to walk around it before and/or after a meal.