Des Moines · Polk County, IA
Arts & Culture in Des Moines
Scout analyzed 110 Des Moines places and surfaced the ones that actually fit arts & culture.
Places analyzed
110
Matches
22
Typical spend
$80
Typical visit
2.3 hr
Complete outings
Sherman Hill Arts & Drinks Date
Begin your date with cocktails and shared plates in a stylish setting before heading to the historic Hoyt Sherman Place for a captivating performance. Conclude the evening with a nightcap at a chic downtown lounge.
Sherman Hill Art & Elegant Dinner
Begin your date night with an aperitif at a chic lounge before immersing yourselves in the arts at Hoyt Sherman Place, an exquisite 19th-century manor. Conclude the evening with an upscale American dining experience, perfect for conversation and connection.
East Village Capitol & Classic Eats
Discover the grandeur of Des Moines with an afternoon exploring the Iowa State Capitol's stunning architecture and history. Afterwards, enjoy a taste of local fare at a beloved East Village eatery. Conclude your outing with a serene stroll through a uniquely designed garden, reflecting on the day's sights.
Des Moines Art & Eats Date
Start your afternoon date exploring the impressive collection of modern and contemporary art at the Salisbury House & Gardens. Then, continue your conversations over a delicious, locally-sourced dinner, making for a perfect blend of culture and culinary delight.
Downtown Des Moines Sculpture & Coffee Morning
Start your day with a refreshing walk through Des Moines' iconic Pappajohn Sculpture Park, soaking in the public art in the calm of the morning. Then, head to a local favorite for a budget-friendly breakfast and coffee, ensuring a delightful and affordable start to your day.
Sherman Hill Date Night: Art and Elegance
Begin your evening with a cozy coffee or a light bite in the charming Sherman Hill neighborhood before immersing yourselves in the arts at Hoyt Sherman Place. Conclude your date with a sophisticated dinner at a local favorite.
Best neighborhoods for arts & culture
Ranked by how many matching spots Scout found in each area.
Scout-verified spots
Sherman Hill
Hoyt Sherman Place
Hoyt Sherman Place is ideal for an evening out to see a performance or visit the art gallery. Expect to spend 2-3 hours and tickets typically range from $30-$100 per person.
Arts & Culture
Living History Farms
This is a good half-day outing for families interested in Iowa's agricultural history, with a mix of outdoor walking and indoor exhibits. Expect to spend $10-20 per person for admission.
Downtown Des Moines
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
This is a great spot for a free, leisurely outdoor walk to view art, possibly combined with a picnic. Allow 1-2 hours for a comfortable visit.
Downtown Des Moines
Mainframe Studios
Mainframe Studios is an art studio complex often open to the public for browsing and purchases. Plan for 1-2 hours to explore the studios, and expect to spend little to nothing unless you buy art.
Westwood
Des Moines Art Center
The Des Moines Art Center is a free-admission museum perfect for a 2-hour solo visit or family outing. Expect to spend $0-$25 if you don't eat at the restaurant or buy from the shop, and it pairs well with a picnic on the grounds.
Downtown Des Moines
Temple Theater
Temple Theater is good for an evening out to see a show or concert. Expect to spend 2-3 hours and tickets typically range from $30-$100 per person.
Arts & Culture
Val Air Ballroom
Val Air Ballroom is a good spot for an evening date or a fun night out with friends to catch a live band, typically lasting around 3 hours. Expect to spend $50-150 per person on tickets and drinks.
Arts & Culture
Vibrant Music Hall
This concert hall is good for an evening out to see a show. Expect to spend a few hours and buy tickets in advance, with costs typically ranging from $50 to $150 per person including drinks.
Downtown Des Moines
Science Center of Iowa
The Science Center of Iowa is a great indoor destination for families, offering interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX cinema. Expect to spend 3-4 hours here, with costs around $15-30 per person for admission.
Salisbury Oaks
Salisbury House & Gardens
Explore this historic mansion and its gardens for a few hours. It's a good standalone activity for visitors or a quiet afternoon outing, costing about $10-15 per person for admission.
Arts & Culture
Iowa State Fair Grandstand
The Iowa State Fair Grandstand is a large outdoor venue for concerts and events, primarily active during the State Fair. Plan for a several-hour visit and expect to pay for tickets and concessions, likely pairing with other fair activities.
Downtown Des Moines
Des Moines Civic Center
The Des Moines Civic Center is ideal for an evening out to see a show, often paired with dinner beforehand. Expect to spend 2-3 hours and tickets typically range from $50 to $150 per person.
Arts & Culture
Horizon Events Center
Horizon Events Center is a large venue for concerts and other events, typically requiring pre-purchased tickets. Expect to spend 2-3 hours here, with costs varying widely based on the event and concessions.
East Village
Wooly's
Wooly's is a live music venue in Des Moines suitable for a night out to see a show. Expect to spend 3-4 hours and $30-80 per person, primarily on tickets and drinks. Parking might be tricky in the area.
Arts & Culture
Des Moines Children's Museum
The Des Moines Children's Museum is ideal for a 2-hour family outing with young children, costing about $10-15 per person for admission. It's a good standalone activity or can be paired with lunch nearby.
East Village
Iowa State Capitol
Visit the Iowa State Capitol for an educational and scenic experience exploring history and architecture. Expect to spend 1-2 hours, with tours often available, and it costs nothing for entry. It pairs well with a downtown lunch or a walk around the grounds.
Under $35
Cheap dates and low-spend afternoons.
Worth the splurge
When the night needs to land.
No reservation needed
Walk in tonight.
What Scout found
- 16 of the 110 analyzed Des Moines places fit arts & culture.
- 6% of matches are outdoor or partly outdoor.
- 50% have easy parking.
- Dominant moods: Educational, Social, Relaxed, Adventurous, Playful, Scenic.
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