Pappajohn Sculpture Park Is the Most Colorful Place You’ll Find in Iowa

Over the past few years, Iowa’s climate has developed a depressing habit of staying brown for long stretches of the winter. Especially late in the season, when there’s neither snow nor green, I really start getting itchy for more color in my viewfinder. Botanical gardens are often a good winter pick-me-up, but when I want the fresh-air vibes only an outdoor park can offer, I head to Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines. It’s one of my all-time favorite urban parks and also one of the most colorful places in Iowa.

Why This Is the Most Colorful Place in Iowa

From the first glimpse of this jaw-dropping Des Moines park, you’ll see what I mean. It’s a rainbow of happiness, splashed across dozens of bizarre and beautiful art pieces, begging you to get out and explore beyond the car door.  First, it’s the brilliant red T8, which looks like a whacky version of a retro jacks game piece, and then the instantly-recognizable LOVE sculpture, inspired by Robert Indiana. Next, you’ll see the playful primary colors of Three Figures Dancing, and not far off, Yayoi’s giant orange Pumpkin. In all, there are more than 30 larger-than-life sculptures, but the best one, if you’re looking for the most colorful place to visit in Iowa, is the Panoramic Awareness Pavilion, a large-scale prism. It’s quite literally a rainbow you can stand within, soaking up the hues you’ve been lacking all winter long. 

The Story Behind Pappajohn Sculpture Park’s Colorful Look

Beyond all the colorful good vibes you’ll find at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines, Iowa, is a backstory that only adds to the warm and fuzzy vibes. Not only is this colorful oasis one of Iowa's greatest spots, but it's also an urban revitalization project that’s been recognized as one of the best outdoor sculpture parks in the U.S. That’s a big deal, considering that before its creation, this part of Des Moines was considered a derelict eyesore, one that most locals and visitors alike would purposefully avoid. But thanks to the generous local donation of $40 million in sculptures, a new green space was born. Following the artful acquisition, five city blocks of undesirable buildings were leveled to create a free, green space to display the works of art. It’s remained pristine for 17 years and counting, and the sculpture park is now considered an iconic site in downtown Des Moines. 

When To Visit Des Moines for the Best Color and Light

The Pappajohn Sculpture Park, arguably Iowa's most colorful place, is open every day from sunrise to sunset and offers free admission year-round. Considering it’s one of the top things to do in Des Moines, there’s truly no bad time to visit. But, I personally love it most when the sun is low in the sky, a few hours after sunrise or an hour before sunset. There’s a special glow over the city skyline at those times, and the sculptures' colors are most vibrant then as well. Additionally, one of the best times to visit is during the Des Moines Arts Festival, when special events are held in the park. 

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