John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park

More than 20 works of art make up this unique outdoor exhibit in Western Gateway Park in downtown Des Moines. The sculptures reflect a range of mediums and are installed along paths throughout the greenspace.

Parking and public transportation to Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Spaces with parking meters are available along the streets that make up the perimeter of Western Gateway Park. The meters are not patrolled most evenings and weekends to encourage visitors to the area; check the meter for times of required payment. Given its central location, several local transit routes stop near the park.

Best times to go to Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Gateway Park has become a go-to site for several activities and special events held downtown. Time your visit to coincide with a major event such as the Des Moines Art Festival. If you'd prefer a more peaceful experience to contemplate the sculptures, weekdays are the time to visit.

Admission to Pappajohn Sculpture Park
The sculpture park is free for self-guided tours. Hours are sunrise to midnight, as the exhibits are lit after dark. Group tours are available from April through October with advance notice.

Must see/do at Pappajohn Sculpture Park
The site's largest installations are popular places for visitors to snap photos. "Nomade" by Jaume Plensa is a massive human-form artwork comprised of interlocking letters. Barry Flanagan's "Thinker on a Rock" features a bronze hare in a contemplative pose. While photographs are permitted, visitors are asked not to touch the sculptures or sit on the displays.

Other places to visit near Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Take the family further downtown to enjoy the hands-on fun at the Science Center of Iowa. Walk through the indoor and outdoor displays at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. Of course, there's more world-class works of art at the Des Moines Art Center, west on Grand Avenue.

Insider tip for visitors to Pappajohn Sculpture Park
The main branch of the Des Moines Public Library, on the east edge of the park, is of interest to visitors with a love of architecture. Its sleek, modern design features glass walls with copper mesh panels.

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.