John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Pappajohn Sculpture Park Tours

Learn about the newly situated sculptures that now grace the Western Gateway Park by taking a guided tour! One-hour guided tours will be available until October 31 and will resume annually from April 1 through October 31. Please contact Jennifer Cooley at 515.271.0328 or jcooley@desmoinesartcenter.org for more information.

Three or more weeks advance notice is needed to schedule a guided tour.
All guided tours begin at the corner of 13th Street and Grand Avenue (near the donor wall) and will take place rain or shine.
There is a guided tour charge for adults of $2 per person or a minimum fee of $20 (if a group tours the Art Center and the sculpture park on the same day, the fee is $3 per person or a minimum fee of $30). Tours for students are always FREE.
A guided tour is not needed to view the sculpture; anyone is welcome to walk through the park during open hours, which are sunrise to midnight.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Where is the Pappajohn Sculpture Park located?
In downtown Des Moines’ Western Gateway Park; the street borders of the sculpture park are Grand Avenue on the north, Locust Street on the south, 13th Street on the east, and 15th Street on the west. Parking meters and many parking ramps are available nearby.

Who developed the sculpture park?
The sculpture park is a collaboration between the Pappajohns, the City of Des Moines, the Art Center, and numerous private donors.

Can the park be reserved for private events?
Yes. Inquiries should be directed to the City of Des Moines Information Center at 515.237.1431 or tawebb@dmgov.org.

Is photography of the sculptures allowed?
Personal photography is allowed. Media requests for photographs must be made through Christine Doolittle, Art Center marketing director at cdoolittle@desmoinesartcenter.org or 515.271.0344.

Is touching the sculptures allowed?
The Art Center discourages visitors from touching the sculptures. Climbing on them is prohibited. Although many of the sculptures appear sturdy and durable, touching or climbing may result in personal injury and will damage the sculptures and their finish. Security cameras capture all activity in the park and are monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Additional security includes sound alarms and foot patrols.

This project is a collaborative effort of the Pappajohns, the city of Des Moines, the Art Center, and numerous corporate and private donors.

In anticipation of the opening of the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, the Downtown Art Center in the Wells Fargo Building closed September 13. Thanks to all who visited the space and enjoyed the exhibitions at that location. We will continue our great relationship with Wells Fargo in years to come.