This art museum's complex is an all-star monument to some of the greatest architects of the modern era; Eliel Saarinen, IM Pei and Richard Meier all designed portions. Inside there's a solid collection of art from the 19th century onwards. Matisse, O'Keefe, Rodin and Warhol are some of the names represented. Don't miss the museum's Pappajohn Sculpture Park closer to downtown.
Des Moines Art Center
Iowa
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
4.06 MILES
From the sparkling gold dome to the spiral staircases and stained glass in the law library, every detail at this bling-heavy capitol (1886) seems to try…
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1.67 MILES
This historic old village is now part of West Des Moines. The five-block-long commercial strip on Fifth St is the most interesting in the region. Over 60…
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20.66 MILES
Using nothing but apples (no sugars, waters, noxious chemicals etc) the family behind this cidery creates a range of cider styles and flavours. Much…
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State Historical Museum of Iowa
3.78 MILES
At the foot of the capitol, this modern museum features first person accounts from people who lived through different historical eras and events. Yes,…
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2.4 MILES
This curvaceous public park has great skyline views and features sculptures by 22 celebrated artists, including Sol LeWitt, Keith Haring and Willem de…
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24.37 MILES
Historic and modern quilts are the stars at this small museum. Visitors learn that there is a lot more to quilting than sewing a few rags together with…
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23.36 MILES
In a serene setting, the bridge makes a dramatic statement as it parallels the charmless modern bridge over the river. The ubiquitous graffiti is…
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5.16 MILES
Unfortunately this large and high-concept open-air attraction dedicated to the history of farming never quite lives up to its promise. The site is…
Nearby Iowa attractions
1.67 MILES
This historic old village is now part of West Des Moines. The five-block-long commercial strip on Fifth St is the most interesting in the region. Over 60…
2.4 MILES
This curvaceous public park has great skyline views and features sculptures by 22 celebrated artists, including Sol LeWitt, Keith Haring and Willem de…
3. State Historical Museum of Iowa
3.78 MILES
At the foot of the capitol, this modern museum features first person accounts from people who lived through different historical eras and events. Yes,…
4.06 MILES
From the sparkling gold dome to the spiral staircases and stained glass in the law library, every detail at this bling-heavy capitol (1886) seems to try…
5.16 MILES
Unfortunately this large and high-concept open-air attraction dedicated to the history of farming never quite lives up to its promise. The site is…
20.66 MILES
Using nothing but apples (no sugars, waters, noxious chemicals etc) the family behind this cidery creates a range of cider styles and flavours. Much…
23.36 MILES
In a serene setting, the bridge makes a dramatic statement as it parallels the charmless modern bridge over the river. The ubiquitous graffiti is…
24.34 MILES
A worthy focal point for Madison County, this soaring structure was completed in 1876 and has been used ever since. The silver-colored dome tops out at…