Des Moines offers a variety of reasons to visit: art at the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, historical collections, interactive science, and expansive green spaces. There is also a botanical garden and a limited-time culinary offering. When planning your trip, you can first decide whether art, history, science, or nature should be your main focus. This makes it possible to connect different interests with specific places in the city.
Art, History, and Science
The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park is located at 1330 Grand Avenue in downtown Des Moines and displays works by more than two dozen of the world’s most celebrated artists. Its downtown address makes it a clearly located art destination. If you are particularly interested in sculptures, you can make the park a reason for a visit in its own right.
The State Historical Museum of Iowa offers a different focus. It houses more than 80,000 artifacts; about 1,500 objects are on display at any given time. The total collection and the selection on display at any one time answer different questions: the first figure describes the size of the collection, while the second gives an approximate indication of how many objects are on display at a time. Admission to the museum and its research center is free.
The Science Center of Iowa (SCI) offers interactive exhibits and theaters with special-format screenings. Special programs promote learning and entertainment for all ages. Compared with the museum’s historical collection, the focus here is on interactive offerings, special film formats, and programs. If you are looking for these approaches to learning, the SCI is an alternative to a visit focused on artifacts and collections.
Green Spaces, Garden, and Special Offerings
Des Moines Water Works Park covers 1,500 acres of green space. It is located at the intersection of Fleur Drive and George Flagg Parkway, southwest of downtown Des Moines in the state of Iowa. Its facilities include the Reichardt Family Natural Play Area. Its location is distinct from the downtown address of the Sculpture Park, giving you two different geographic points of reference when planning your trip.
The conservatory at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is home to thousands of plants. The water garden has a boardwalk. These are two distinct features: the abundance of plants in the conservatory and the boardwalk in the water garden. If you are comparing nature destinations by their focus, you can compare this garden with Water Works Park: one is characterized by its green space and location, while the other is characterized by its conservatory and water garden.
Des Moines Biergarten is a family-friendly, German-themed pop-up featuring beer served in MaĂźkrugs and German-inspired food. The offering is available for a limited time, so check the specific dates before you visit.
Choose Accommodation Based on Your Interests
Make your choice based on your own priorities—such as art and collections, interactive offerings, or nature.
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