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Western Gateway Park Tickets

Location
Des Moines Venue Guide, Pa

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The venue

About Western Gateway Park

Western Gateway Park sits in the heart of downtown Des Moines, IA, at Locust Street near 13th Street. Established in 2006, this 13-acre urban oasis hosts flexible spaces for concerts, weddings, and private events through venues like the Temple for Performing Arts (Temple Theater, Grand Hall, Recital Hall) and Peirce Pavilion. Inside the park, the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park offers 4.4 acres of sculpture and is managed by the Des Moines Art Center. The park has a rich history of hosting major events, including the Des Moines Arts Festival and, previously, the 80/35 Music Festival. Whether you’re catching a show at the Temple venues or enjoying the sculpture park, we’ve got you covered with practical details to plan your visit.

Parking options around Western Gateway Park include free public parking at the Nationwide Garage (1100 Walnut St) during events, plus additional ramps and metered spots in the downtown area. Transit service is available via Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART). For a comfortable stay nearby, consider these affiliate-friendly hotel options: Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel, Des Moines Marriott Downtown, Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown, and The Kirkwood. When you’re ready to dine, explore nearby restaurants that pair well with your plans. We’ve highlighted reliable options to help you secure convenient accommodations and dining without the guesswork. Date details and event configurations vary by date; always verify the current setup for your visit.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

  • Location: Downtown Des Moines, IA, at Locust Street (commonly referenced near 13th Street and Locust); park opened in 2006 and spans about 13 acres.
  • Within the park are venues and spaces used for events, including the Temple for Performing Arts (Temple Theater, Grand Hall, Recital Hall) and Peirce Pavilion; the spaces support flexible configurations for concerts, weddings, and private events.
  • The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park (4.4 acres) sits inside Western Gateway Park and features works from major artists; it is administered by the Des Moines Art Center.
  • Notable events: Des Moines Arts Festival (draws 150,000–200,000+ annually) and the annual 80/35 Music Festival (historically held at Western Gateway Park before moving to Water Works Park in 2024). Obama spoke at a park rally on October 31, 2008.
  • Parking: Downtown Des Moines parking options include free public parking at the Nationwide Garage (1100 Walnut St) during events; additional ramps and metered spots are described by DSM downtown resources.
  • Transit: The park is served by Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART).
  • Nearby hotels: Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel (401 Locust St), Des Moines Marriott Downtown (700 Grand Ave), Staybridge Suites Des Moines Downtown (201 E Locust St), and The Kirkwood (400 Walnut St).
  • Notes: No demolition or renaming of the park itself; in 2022 the park’s water runnel was removed as part of a redesign; 80/35 moved to Water Works Park in 2024.