Des Moines Pride Center
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This museum is not huge, but every art work seems carefully selected. A famous Edward Hopper painting, The Automat, has its own little nook. Nearby works by Basquiat and Francis Bacon are outstanding. Very good permanent collection. Nice grounds with outdoor tables and a small museum shop. Free.
I can't say it much better than RLCZ70 did. It's a great art museum and one of the best parts is that it's free. It's not huge so you can make time to visit.
A visit to this amazing museum was a must do on my recent trip. I arrived at lunchtime, so made my way to the Art Center Cafe (partnered with the celebrated local La Mie Bakery). I opted for the hummus toast and was pleased with my choice. The portion was great (I'd been busy walking, so was hungry) and the price was right as well. I've eaten at many museum restaurants in my day, and this delightful spot could easily hold its own amongst them. The exhibits are varied, with familiar names (Hopper, Lichtenstein, O' Keefe, and more) as well as newer artists and local talent. I felt right at home here and highly recommend a visit for any art lovers. You won't be disappointed.
A small but spectacular museum. Plenty of well known artists plus plenty of unknowns as well all presented in multiple architecturallly pleasing buildings. Super helping staff. Nice gift shop
This is an excellent museum focusing on modern and contemporary art. While there is a lot of abstract art, there are also a number of figurative pieces, and one painting that I enjoyed was Edward Hopper's "Automat." Best of all, it's completely free!
Was skeptical about going there, but was I wrong. Architecture, particularly the I.M. Pei addition, was drop dead gorgeous! The walls are just incredible, and a piece of art in themselves. We were surprised about the terrific pieces they had. We are huge Anselm Kiefer fans, and they had a wonderful piece of his, as well as great pieces by other noteworthy modern and contemporary artists. Do not miss this amazing place while in Des Moines.
Very glad this was free to go as we didn't get too excited about the newer art. Everyone was quite gracious. Certainly not a "must see" in my book.
Small but very nice museum. I would pay to see it . but love that it is free! The permanent collection seems smallish and spread out but they more than make up for it with the temporary exhibits. The b. Robert Moore exhibit on the bottom floor in particular was amazing and worth a visit. It is at the Des Moines Art Center through Oct 20, 2024 and I'm hoping to see it again closer to home (Crystal Bridges please).
My aunt from Minneapolis is big into art—and she was most impressed with the collection here. The Robert Moore exhibit was a moving experience! We will never forget it. Be sure to see it before it’s gone. Powerful. The building itself is a work of art. The architecture makes you question whether you are inside or out. The stories written on signs next to the artists’ names kept us entertained & really got us talking. We spent 2 1/2 hours here.
What a great gem! My teenage grandchildren enjoy art so this was a day trip. Although not huge fans of modern art, they appreciated being able to see multiple mediums and it opened their eyes to what can be done. They enjoyed the “traditional “ art and were thrilled to see a Monet, Grant Wood and Warhol as a few examples. They also enjoyed walking the grounds and seeing the outside art. The museum is not so large that it becomes overwhelming. They actually were almost more impressed by the building itself! The museum is very easy to get to. Parking is free and plentiful!!! The museum is free although they would like a free will donation which we gladly gave to. This turned out to be a good choice and we will like make it an annual trip.
The best, safest space on campus. The PAC helps me live my authentic self, meet similar people, and feel connected to my campus community. Thanks for all that you do!
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Last updated on 17 September 2026