Des Moines Art Center

The Des Moines Art Center is a great place to spend an afternoon—and it's free! Even if you’ve already seen the permanent collection, they frequently switch out their featured display, so there’s something new to see. They also have impressive architecture, a place to eat and a beautiful little rose garden nearby. Definitely recommend if you’re looking to kill an hour or two—or if you want a new photo for the gram!
5 7 years ago (01-04-2018)

Unfriendly to families. Every time I've been here with my children, I have been spoken down to. I carry my toddler to keep her from touching anything, but I was told I have to also carry my backpack purse in both arms directly in front of my body (not on my side or back). I feel like the guards hover and automatically assume we are going to damage the art. I can't chalk it up to one or two unfriendly employees because it is a consistent pattern I've noticed over the 4 years I have been coming here. It seems to be part of the museum culture that is unwelcoming to children. If you don't have children, it's a nice free place to spend an hour. The tape exhibit from 2017-2018 was a highlight. They have a lot of modern work that makes you scratch your head and wonder what qualifies it as "art," but they have some nice classic pieces. The park surrounding the museum is beautiful.
2 7 years ago (21-03-2018)

Great value. Love the beautiful restaurant by the water. Really interesting pieces when we were there.
5 7 years ago (15-05-2018)

Experiencing the Des Moines Art Center is as much spiritual as a great inspiration for any latent artistry you may have waiting to emerge. Always a go to for visiting family and friends. We - weather permitting - love to end our time sitting back in the breeze, next to the movement of the water and light in the courtyard. Worth your time.
5 7 years ago (25-02-2018)

Visited from out of town and was quite impressed by the varied collections - something interesting in every corner. Free admission makes for a fantastic afternoon.
5 7 years ago (21-04-2018)