Des Moines Art Center

4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312, USA

Address:	4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312, USA
Phone:	+1 515-277-4405
Site:	desmoinesartcenter.org
Rating:	4.4
Working:	Closed 11AM–4PM 11AM–4PM 11AM–9PM 11AM–4PM 10AM–4PM 12–4PM

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 20

Mary Dowd

I honestly havent been here in quite awhile, but I felt I had to write a review when I started thinking about how Id seen the American Gothic painting that was passing through at the time (maybe 2010?). I recently told someone I knew that Id seen it for free at the Des Moines Art Center, and she said that it was amazing that our museum had such an awesome collection for free to the public! I realized that Id taken it for granted! It really is a very cool place to hang out for a couple hours and I like it that you dont feel rushed to move on to another painting or sculpture because the crowds are reasonable.

Mini Moose

It was okay, it was nicely laid out. Its more for art hippies and not for people that enjoy pretty art. We got kicked out because no one told us we werent allowed to have our 6months old babys diaper bag. Thats why it got two stars. We got told at the last room to take it outside to our car so we just left. We probably will never go back if we ever visit Des Moines again. (We never got the bag out or bottles or anything since Im breastfeeding) we were told to take it out since I had sun tan lotion bottles in the side pockets. I guess they must had people spraying their kids down sun tan lotion before inside

A Private User

This is a great place to go with a friend, a group of friends, or even just by yourself. I like to stop in at the restaurant - every time I go there is something new to try and I have never been disappointed. After my lunch, I like to walk around for an hour or so and look at all the great pieces. I disagree with anyone who says the staff is rude. I have always had a very pleasant experience and I cant wait to go again and since there is no admission, I usually go a few times a year. Its a great way to spend an afternoon!

Amanda Bettis

The architecture inside the building was very interesting some rooms have great outside views. My little one loved the echo of her voice! The art was great a nice variety and the show up right now is interesting. We went in a stroller so it takes a bit more navigation than just being able to walk straight in stairs everywhere. We didnt get to go upstairs or downstairs mainly because I couldnt find an elevator and work was being done. However the employees were super kind and friendly.

vanessa gavin

Since I was last there two wings were added. Such beautiful architecture! The exhibits were fabulous, the guards so friendly and helpful. One thing that really impressed me was the labels. The curators who wrote them were really insightful and helped me to understand the paintings. The restaurant was incredible! The best museum restaurant Ive been to and Ive been to quite a few! I hope to return soon.

Mister Beaz

There are three main buildings and surrounding grounds. The buildings themselves appear to be engineered or built as artwork itself. You have to walk through them to consider the appreciation. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to assist. The artworks within the facility are remarkably fascinating, you should really see it for yourself. I recommend you to go visit.

Hailey Toliver

This place was the BEST place we had ever been. For it being free, you couldnt beat it. They should charge for people to come in, because they have a lot to offer. They even have a gift shop and a restaurant that you can eat at by the water. I highly recommend going if youre in des moines. We will be making the 5 hour trip to go back one day!

Marian Hall

I have always loved the Des Moines Art Center. I could get lost wandering in the museums for hours. I have been taking a lot of the teen classes lately and some adult ones since I am 17 and I love it! The teachers are absolutely fantastic and I always have so much fun! There really is something there for everyone;

Mike Montgomery

I have never been there hopefully soon. I live in Osceola and I have just started doing spray paint art about a yr and a half ago and would love to have my paintings in something like this someday I do have a fb account which I post all my paintings just look for the twin towers and contact me if u would like

Leilani Luker

I love the art here. Its a beautiful place to walk around with a lot of interesting things to see. I come here often for the pokestops. Ive had lots of great conversations with staff members about the art. Everyone was kind and insightful. I always have a wonderful time here and always learn something new.

First Last

What an absolutely delightful museum. Everything about this place is great. The architecture of the building is interesting, the grounds are relaxing and park like and the collections are engaging. The staff couldnt be friendlier and this should be on everyones must see list when in Des Moines.

bader mossa

When I went to the Art Center I was in a play, me and a bunch of other people were in the play called "The Jungle Book. It was awesome, we preformed in front of a lot of people. It was the best performance I ever did in my whole lifetime. THE END

Catherine K. Tran

One of my favorite places in Des Moines. Its free, and they have educational and family friendly programs. Friendly staff running them. My three year old and I went to their Blankets and Books program, and I thought it was very well done and thought through.

Matthew Rozendaal

It is a very fun place to go. Especially for little ones. The oos and ahhs as they see cool sculptures made me smile. I recommend that you come with an open mind. If you come because someone else told you to you wont have fun. Take your time and enjoy life.

Megan Bannister

The Des Moines Art Center is easily one of my favorite places in Des Moines! Their impressive collection and unique temporary exhibitions make the Art Center a perfect place to visit over and over, whether youre a Des Moines native or just passing through.

Jacob Meyer

Awesome building with great pieces. There are quite a few different styles of art. The security/guides are very friendly and definitely worth talking to. Admission is free so theres no excuse to not go even if its just to get out of the house for a while.

Tim Hurley

Great place! The staff was very helpful and the architecture of the building was amazing. They had a lot of great, thought provoking pieces, but some of them were not good. I highly recommend going there while the have their rupture exhibit open.

Addy Free

Art is always a part of my travels. Sometimes it is the whole motivation. Whenever Im in Des Moines, Im sure to get to the art center. An important gem in our nations cultural heritage. The I.M. Pei wing is especially important to me.

Jud Barr

The building is a beautiful combination of styles from 3 great architects, set on a hill and in a park. The collection is focused on 20th century and contemporary works but presented in a way that is approachable. Free admission.

Austin Jorgensen

Apart from the unique artwork, this art center building is full of great architecture, from the overall design to the giant skylights. There are also many friendly/interesting people that also work there. Its worth visiting!