DES MOINES, Iowa — I used to say the best way to see a city was to stay downtown and go for a run. You get in a workout, and you are able to see what a city has to offer (always tell the concierge your route). I don’t run as much as I used to, but on a stay in Des Moines recently I got caught up in a downtown 5K, which proved to be a perfect introduction to the Iowa state capital.
I began my fall morning setting out from the downtown Marriott, hoping to see the famed Pappajohn Sculpture Park. It was only about a half-mile away, so I decided to walk to it.
The free 4.4-acre park sits at what may be considered the entrance to downtown Des Moines. More than two dozen works of art grace the setting. Some, such as the giant torso of steel letters by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, tower over the park; others, such as a white tree by Ugo Rondinone, offer a surprise around a hedge. The park opened in 2009 and features artwork by many of the world’s most celebrated artists: Keith Haring and Richard Serra (of St. Louis’ Serra Sculpture Park) among others. You can take guided tours to learn more or dial in for a free audio tour.
