View works from a range of international and American artists at the Des Moines Art Center. The site's permanent collection contains nearly 5,000 pieces of art representing a wide range of styles and media. The Des Moines nonprofit organization also offers a slate of workshops for all ages throughout the year.
Parking and public transportation to the Des Moines Art Center
Take the 42nd Street exit from Interstate Highway 235; follow 42nd Street south to Grand Avenue and west to the art center. Parking is available on site. Local transit routes that stop along Ingersoll Avenue are the closest options for public transportation. It's only a block south from Ingersoll to reach the art center.
Best and worst times to go to the Des Moines Art Center
Check the online calendar for the center's slate of special events, which includes artist talks, concerts and film screenings. Many are free or low-cost activities that also include access to the exhibits. The center is a popular field-trip stop for students, so be prepared for lots of company on school days.
Admission to the Des Moines Art Center
The site is open Tuesdays through Sundays, except for major holidays. Admission is free. Reservations are required for guided tours, as well as groups wishing to view the displays on their own.
Must see/do at the Des Moines Art Center
The center hosts traveling exhibitions by artists from around the world. The regular collections offer a wide range of art, including sculpture, paintings, drawings and more. Works from several centuries are represented, from etchings by Dutch artist Adriaen van Ostade (1610-85) to a striking display of contemporary burlap-and-resin sculptures by Magdalena Abakanowicz. Outside, sculptures dot the art center's grounds; enjoy the rose garden during the warmer months.
Other places to visit near the Des Moines Art Center
Find more art at the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park in downtown's Western Gateway Park. Visit two historical homes showcasing classic architectural styles: Terrace Hill, the governor's mansion; and the Salisbury House.
Insider tip for visitors to the Des Moines Art Center
Members gain access to special events and sneak-peeks at upcoming exhibitions. The Des Moines Art Center membership card also offers admission discounts at other art and cultural sites around the country.
Author's bio: Melanie Lageschulte is a freelance writer and editor. She is an Iowa native and has lived in Des Moines for 15 years.
Located on Southwest 3rd Street, the Ankeny Area Historical Society consists of a historical house and barn housing numerous displays that document the history of Ankeny. The society's exhibits feature quilts, dollhouse miniatures, signage, photos and other historical artifacts. The Ankeny Area Historical Society is always looking for more glimpses into the past, so contact them if you have anything of historical value to contribute. Open houses are held the first Sunday of each month from 2pm to 4pm, or by appointment.
Revisit an important era in America's history at the Jordan House in West Des Moines. This stately home, built in the 1850s by James C. Jordan, served as one of the main Iowa stops on the Underground Railroad. The property is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Parking and public transportation to Jordan House
Take Interstate Highway 35 south to the Mills Civic Parkway exit. Follow Mills Civic east to Fuller Road. Continue east on Fuller Road to Jordan House. Parking is available on site. Due to the home's secluded location, there are no local transit routes that stop within walking distance of the property.
Best times to go to Jordan House
Several special events are held at the house and on its grounds throughout the year. Time your visit to coincide with a holiday tour or a summer arts activity.
Admission to Jordan House
Expect to pay just a few dollars for children and adults, with toddlers admitted free. Tours are usually held twice each Friday, and twice on the first Sunday of the month.
Must see/do at Jordan House
The site contains an extensive display of artifacts from the home's association with the Underground Railroad. Learn about local railroad history, too, as Jordan was instrumental in bringing a line to the area and the formation of Valley Junction, which was later renamed West Des Moines. The home's Italianate Gothic style includes many ornate elements and several porches. The carefully restored Bennett School is adjacent to Jordan House. The building, constructed in the 1920s, is open with advance notice and is available to rent for special events.
Other places to visit near Jordan House
Enjoy the trails at Brown's Woods Park. Head over to the lake at Raccoon River Park. Living History Farms in nearby Urbandale offers a hands-on look at Iowa's agricultural past.
Insider tip for visitors to Jordan House
Family lore says that the ghost of one of Jordan's daughters haunts the house. The child died in the 1890s after she fell while sliding down the staircase banister.
Author's bio: Melanie Lageschulte is a freelance writer and editor. She is an Iowa native and has lived in Des Moines for 15 years.
