Des Moines Civic Center
A premier performing arts venue in Des Moines, Iowa, hosting Broadway tours, concerts, opera, and more. Known for great views and excellent customer s...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for major shows
Des Moines Civic Center
Best Time
Prime time for major shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier performing arts venue in Des Moines, Iowa, hosting Broadway tours, concerts, opera, and more. Known for great views and excellent customer service.
"This is a wonderful space to experience the arts! "
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Musicals like The Lion King sell out fast! Book tickets early for the best seats and availability.
🚗 Parking Tips
Use the attached ramp or nearby garages; skywalk access is convenient. Arrive early to avoid parking stress.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Broadway Musicals
Main Auditorium
Experience world-class touring productions of Broadway's biggest hits, from The Lion King to Hamilton.
Des Moines Symphony Performances
Main Auditorium
Enjoy captivating performances by the Des Moines Symphony, featuring classical and contemporary works.
Diverse Performing Arts
Main Auditorium
From opera and dance to concerts and special events, the Civic Center hosts a wide array of artistic expressions.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets Early for Popular Shows
Navigating Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Musicals like The Lion King sell out fast! Book tickets early for the best seats and availability.
🚗 Parking Tips
Use the attached ramp or nearby garages; skywalk access is convenient. Arrive early to avoid parking stress.
🪑 Good Views Everywhere
Most seats offer a great view; the venue is designed for excellent sightlines.
🥤 Souvenir Cups for Drinks
Purchase a $3 souvenir cup to bring concessions into the performance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Musicals like The Lion King sell out fast! Book tickets early for the best seats and availability.
🚗 Parking Tips
Use the attached ramp or nearby garages; skywalk access is convenient. Arrive early to avoid parking stress.
🪑 Good Views Everywhere
Most seats offer a great view; the venue is designed for excellent sightlines.
🥤 Souvenir Cups for Drinks
Purchase a $3 souvenir cup to bring concessions into the performance.
🤝 Friendly Staff
Expect helpful and welcoming staff throughout the venue, from ticket takers to ushers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Des Moines Civic Center for its excellent sightlines and the high quality of its diverse performances, from Broadway shows to symphony concerts. The venue's friendly and helpful staff are frequently highlighted, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. While parking can be a minor inconvenience, the overall experience is highly regarded as a top-tier performing arts venue.
"My hubby and I enjoyed our first visit to the Des Moines Civic Center last night to see a wonderful 50 year celebration of Air Supply. It was pouring and dark outside but inside was bright and cozy. It seemed everyone had a great seat. What I enjoyed most about the Civic Center was the staffing they had. There were many on duty and each one seemed friendly and welcoming, rolling out the red carpet of customer service. One person in particular named Susie was so kind to bring us water after we were discussing how dehydrated my husband and I were. She brought it right to our seats, which was so thoughtful. From the ticket window, to the refreshment stand and all the ushers and staff in between, it was clear that each employee was handpicked for their wonderful customer service. We felt so welcomed and truly enjoyed a night of love songs. Everyone was smiling or singing or both. It was a true house of love "
Carla Vawter
"Really great event location. Not a bad seat in the house. This building is used for a variety of events from Graduations to full concerts. Very well run and organized. Lots of very helpful staff. Loading docks out back are easy to get in and out of. Plenty of parking located within walking distance. Entrance is usually limited to the south side for shows. Bathrooms are clean and tidy. Seats are dated but very comfortable. Plenty of room for your knees when seated unless someone needs to get past. Very nice Venue regardless."
Jrod K
"Small, but very nice place to go and see plays and shows.
Location is a bit awful for parking.
Basically, there is no adjacent parking or underground parking.
But once you are there it is fairly easy to move around."
John C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Des Moines Civic Center is located in downtown Des Moines. It's accessible by car, and public transportation options are available. Many visitors find parking in nearby garages or the ramp attached to the building via skywalk. +1
Parking is available in the ramp attached to the Civic Center via skywalk, which is convenient and often affordable for events. Other nearby parking garages, like the 4th and Grand garage, are also good options.
Yes, the Des Moines Civic Center is handicap-accessible. Public transportation routes serve the downtown area, and drop-off points are available.
It's recommended to arrive at least 30-60 minutes before showtime, especially for popular performances, to allow time for parking, security, and finding your seats.
Yes, there are designated drop-off areas. For shows, the entrance is typically on the south side of the building.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased through the official Des Moines Civic Center website, the box office, or authorized third-party sellers. For popular shows like The Lion King, booking well in advance is highly recommended.
The Des Moines Civic Center hours vary depending on scheduled performances. The box office typically has specific operating hours, and doors usually open about an hour before showtime. Check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the Des Moines Civic Center often offers season tickets or subscription packages for various performing arts series, providing potential savings and guaranteed access to popular shows.
Refund and exchange policies can vary by event and ticket vendor. It's best to review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the box office directly for specific inquiries.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted. However, the Civic Center offers concessions, and you can purchase a $3 souvenir cup to bring drinks into the performance.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Des Moines Civic Center hosts a wide variety of performances, including Broadway musicals like The Lion King, concerts by the Des Moines Symphony, opera, ballet, and other touring productions.
Yes, the venue is known for having good sightlines from most seats, ensuring a great viewing experience for all attendees.
Absolutely. The Des Moines Civic Center is handicap-accessible, with multiple entry points and accommodations for patrons with disabilities.
Seating is arranged in a traditional theater layout with orchestra, mezzanine, and balcony sections. Seats are generally comfortable with adequate legroom, unless someone needs to pass.
The acoustics at the Des Moines Civic Center are considered pretty good, contributing to an enjoyable audio experience for concerts and theatrical performances.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Des Moines Civic Center has concession stands offering a variety of snacks and beverages, including alcoholic options with the purchase of a souvenir cup.
Outside food and beverages are generally not allowed inside the Des Moines Civic Center. It's best to enjoy meals before or after the show.
Concession stands typically offer standard theater fare such as popcorn, candy, and soft drinks. Alcoholic beverages are also available for purchase.
Yes, being in downtown Des Moines, there are numerous restaurants and dining options within walking distance or a short drive from the Civic Center, catering to various tastes and budgets.
There is no strict dress code for most events at the Des Moines Civic Center. Attire is typically smart casual, but it's always a good idea to check the specific event guidelines if you're unsure.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography without flash is permitted in the lobby areas. However, professional photography and flash photography are usually prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. Always check specific event policies.
The Brutalist architecture of the Des Moines Civic Center itself offers interesting photographic opportunities, especially from the exterior. The surrounding downtown Des Moines area also provides scenic backdrops.
No, taking photos or videos of the stage during a performance is strictly prohibited to respect copyright and the audience experience.
While phones are allowed, using them for photos or videos during a performance is typically not permitted. Please be mindful of others and the performers.
Small personal cameras are usually allowed, but large professional camera equipment, tripods, and selfie sticks may be restricted. It's best to confirm with the venue if you plan to bring specialized gear.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The venue is handicap-accessible, making it easier for families with strollers or mobility needs. For family outings, consider attending a Des Moines Symphony family concert or a touring show with kid-friendly themes, such as Mozart's The Magic Flute.
Arriving early is recommended to navigate parking and seating without rushing, ensuring a more relaxed experience for everyone. The availability of concessions with souvenir cups also adds to the fun for kids. 💰 Budget Travelers
Some performances, like certain Des Moines Symphony concerts, have tickets starting at just $20. Consider attending events during the week or opting for seats in the upper sections, which are often more affordable.
couples
+1 The intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics create a memorable shared experience. Consider booking seats in the orchestra or mezzanine for an enhanced view. Afterwards, explore the many dining options in downtown Des Moines to complete your evening.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
The building's design emphasizes raw materials and a monumental presence, which has garnered attention from architecture enthusiasts. While Brutalism can sometimes be perceived as stark, the Civic Center's interior offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for performances. The contrast between its robust exterior and the vibrant artistic experiences within is part of its unique charm. Visitors often appreciate the building's historical and architectural context as part of their overall experience.
Experiencing Broadway in Des Moines
These shows are a major draw, attracting visitors from across the region. Due to the popularity of these touring shows, it's essential to book tickets well in advance. The Civic Center's schedule is updated regularly, and popular musicals often sell out quickly.
The Des Moines Symphony Experience
Performances often feature renowned guest artists, adding an extra layer of prestige to their concerts. Attending a Des Moines Symphony performance at the Civic Center provides an opportunity to enjoy high-quality orchestral music in an intimate setting. The venue's design ensures that audiences can appreciate the nuances of the music, regardless of their seating location.
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