Pappajohn Sculpture Park 3.8 (reviews)

Des Moines, IA National Parks Unclaimed
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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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How much does it cost?

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Adults Free

Children Free

Last Update 2022

Weather forecast

Today

Today

22 F overcast clouds

Sat

Sat

23 F overcast clouds

Sun

Sun

27 F few clouds

Mon

Mon

40 F broken clouds

Tues

Tues

35 F few clouds

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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.

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!