Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Open to visitors since September 2009, the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park features artwork by more than twenty of the world’s most celebrated artists. The park land is owned and maintained by the City of Des Moines, while the artworks are owned and maintained by the Des Moines Art Center. The Pappajohns’ contribution is the most significant donation of artwork ever made to the Des Moines Art Center. The GDMPAF contributed funds to the project to transform the Western Gateway into the Sculpture Park.

The 4.4 acre park, located within a major crossroads of the urban grid, creates a pedestrian friendly entrance way to downtown Des Moines. This accessible setting, coupled with the skilled landscape design and caliber of the art, makes it unlike any other sculpture park in the United States.

LOCATION
The Pappajohn Sculpture Park is located at 1330 Grand Avenue in downtown Des Moines.

HOURS
The sculpture park is open during city park hours, which are sunrise to midnight.

TOURS
Guided tours are available from April 1 through October 31. Three or more weeks advance notice is needed to schedule a guided tour. Schedule a guided tour here.

Guided tours are not needed to view the sculptures; anyone is welcome to walk through the park and view the sculptures during open hours.

AUDIO TOURS
An audio tour of the Pappajohn Sculpture Park is available online or by dialing 515.657.8264.

PHOTOGRAPHY
Photography is allowed in the park.

PRESERVATION
Touching, climbing, and sitting on the sculptures is not allowed, with the exception of Scott Burton’s Seating for Eight. Although many of the sculptures appear sturdy and durable, touching or climbing will damage the sculptures and their finish. Additionally, visitors may get hurt touching or climbing on the sculptures.

FOOD AND DRINK
Picnicking is allowed. Please be sure to keep food and drink away from the sculptures and dispose of waste in the receptacles on the perimeter of the park. City park rules prohibit glass bottles and alcohol is allowed by permit only.

SMOKING
Smoking inside the park is prohibited. Smoking is permitted on the exterior public right of way sidewalks.[/vc_column_text]

Artwork in this Location