Best Museums & Art Galleries in Des Moines, Iowa, United States

All Topics about Des Moines All Cities in United States

1. Des Moines Art Center

A museum featuring a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art in three buildings.

Unique Architecture: The buildings are masterpieces themselves, showcasing iconic designs by Eliel Saarinen.
Rotating Exhibits: Exhibitions change frequently, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience.
Community Engagement: Programs for all ages encourage interaction with the art and artists.

A zoo focusing on conservation, education, and rare species exhibits.

Conservation Efforts: The zoo is a leader in wildlife conservation and rehabilitation programs.
Rare Species Exhibits: Exhibits like the African Veldt showcase endangered species such as the black rhino.
Educational Programs: Educational experiences for visitors to learn about conservation and wildlife.

A historic English-style Tudor mansion with stunning gardens and artwork.

Historic Mansion: Originally built in the 1920s, the house showcases antiques and art from various periods.
Stunning Gardens: Gardens include an English Garden, Italian Renaissance Garden, and Japanese Garden.
Art Collections: The mansion houses a collection of European and American art spanning several centuries.

A magnificent state capitol building showcasing gold leaf details, marble floors, and mosaics.

Gold Leaf Details: The building's dome is covered in 23-karat gold leaf.
Marble Floors and Walls: Marble from around the world adorns the floors, walls, and columns of the capitol.
Historic Guided Tours: Guided tours allow visitors to explore the building's history and architecture.

A collection of public artworks throughout downtown Des Moines.

Outdoor Art Tour: An outdoor art tour allows visitors to explore the city while appreciating public art.
Interactive Artworks: Many works invite interaction and engagement, making art accessible for all.
Art as Urban Development: Public art plays a role in urban development, enriching the city's aesthetic and culture.

An open-air shopping mall with a variety of stores, restaurants, and an indoor amusement park.

Shopping and Dining: A wide range of stores cater to diverse tastes, while restaurants offer a variety of cuisines.
Indoor Amusement Park: The SkyZone indoor trampoline park offers fun and excitement for all ages.
Movie Theater Complex: A large movie theater complex shows the latest releases, with IMAX and VIP options.

An outdoor park featuring sculptures by internationally renowned artists.

Outdoor Art Experience: The park provides a unique, interactive experience with contemporary art.
Sculptures by Famous Artists: Artworks by artists like Louise Bourgeois, Jaume Plensa, and Henry Moore are on display.
Educational Programs: The park offers programs for visitors to learn about the art and artists.

A museum celebrating the work of World Food Prize laureates in addressing global hunger.

Global Hunger Awareness: The museum raises awareness about the challenges and solutions to global hunger.
Interactive Exhibits: Exhibits allow visitors to engage with the work of laureates and learn about food security initiatives.
Inspiring Stories: Stories of the laureates' achievements offer inspiration for addressing future global challenges.

A science museum with interactive exhibits focused on STEAM education.

Interactive Exhibits: Exhibits encourage hands-on exploration and learning.
Planetarium Shows: The planetarium offers shows about space, astronomy, and the night sky.
STEM Education: Programs encourage curiosity and learning in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

A performing arts center with multiple venues hosting a variety of performances.

Variety of Performances: The center hosts ballet, theater, music, and dance performances.
Community Engagement: The center offers educational programs and workshops for the community.
Historic Building Restoration: The building is a historic theater that has been restored to preserve its original beauty.

A museum showcasing the history of Polk County and Des Moines.

Local History Education: The museum offers insights into the history of the region.
Interactive Exhibits: Exhibits allow visitors to engage with historical artifacts and stories.
Community Pride: The museum fosters a sense of pride in the community's heritage.

A botanical garden featuring native and exotic plants as well as educational programs.

Native and Exotic Plants: The garden showcases plants from around the world, including many native to Iowa.
Educational Programs: Programs provide opportunities to learn about plant conservation and gardening techniques.
Serene Atmosphere: The garden offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

A community arts center with theater, art gallery, and event space.

Arts and Culture Hub: The club serves as a hub for local arts and culture.
Community Engagement: Programs encourage participation in the arts and cultural community.
Versatile Event Space: The space accommodates a variety of events, from art exhibitions to performances.

A home improvement store that sells donated and surplus building materials at a discount.

Affordable Home Improvement: Affordable prices allow customers to make home improvements on a budget.
Environmentally Friendly: By using donated and surplus materials, the store reduces waste and promotes sustainability.
Support for Habitat for Humanity: Proceeds from the store support Habitat for Humanity's mission to provide affordable housing.

An observation deck offering panoramic views of Des Moines from the state capitol building.

Breathtaking Views: The observation deck offers a stunning view of Des Moines and the surrounding area.
Historic Architecture: The observation deck provides a closer look at the historic architecture of the capitol building.
Inspiring Moment: The experience offers a unique and inspiring moment for visitors to appreciate the city's beauty and history.