
World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
A historic Beaux-Arts gem in Des Moines, celebrating agricultural innovation and hosting elegant events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Beaux-Arts gem in Des Moines, celebrating agricultural innovation and hosting elegant events.
"The building itself is so naturally beautiful. All of our guests loved the venue as well!"

Check Public Hours First
Verify visiting hours on their website before you go, as they can change due to events.
Book Event Tickets Early
For popular candlelight concerts or other performances, secure your tickets in advance.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Magnificent Stained Glass Window
Main Hall
A breathtaking centerpiece, this century-old stained glass artwork is a must-see for its intricate detail and vibrant colors.

Exhibits on Global Agriculture
Museum Galleries
Discover the impactful achievements of World Food Prize laureates and learn about the ongoing fight against hunger.

Elegant Beaux-Arts Architecture
Throughout the building
Admire the stunning Beaux-Arts style, characterized by grand stone columns and a timeless, sophisticated ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Event & Garden Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Public Hours First
Verify visiting hours on their website before you go, as they can change due to events.
Book Event Tickets Early
For popular candlelight concerts or other performances, secure your tickets in advance.
Explore the Gardens (if open)
Enjoy the surrounding gardens for a peaceful moment, though access may be limited.
Free Admission for Tours
Self-guided tours of the Hall of Laureates are generally free, making it an accessible cultural experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Public Hours First
Verify visiting hours on their website before you go, as they can change due to events.
Book Event Tickets Early
For popular candlelight concerts or other performances, secure your tickets in advance.
Explore the Gardens (if open)
Enjoy the surrounding gardens for a peaceful moment, though access may be limited.
Free Admission for Tours
Self-guided tours of the Hall of Laureates are generally free, making it an accessible cultural experience.
Wedding Venue Perfection
Consider this stunning venue for your special day; it's praised as a perfect, naturally beautiful wedding location.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates for its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and the impactful exhibits on global agriculture. It's a highly recommended venue for weddings and special events, with many guests highlighting the beautiful ambiance and memorable experiences. Some recent changes to garden access have been noted as a drawback for casual visitors.
"Having our wedding reception at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates was the best decision we made! It was truly the most perfect venue for our wedding. The building itself is so naturally beautiful. All of our guests loved the venue as well! We loved working with Monica as well! She was so sweet and helpful. The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates was so accommodating and is the perfect place to have your wedding! (Photos by Laura Wills Photography)"
Sophia Stevens
"Went to the Queen tribute and it was amazing. The musicians shared background of the music, played a dozen Queen songs, PLUS pieces from operas and classical selections.
Venue was beautiful with the candlelight. Beverages available for purchase. Comfy chairs. Could see and hear from everywhere. I sat in the way back and could see and hear everything well.
I went early and enjoyed the gardens surrounding the World Food Prize building it was hosted at in Des Moines IA. Cost was $50 for an hour and a half a glorious entertainment. Awesome!"
Ellen Paullin
"They started putting up signs that the garden is closed to the public. I’ve been walking through this garden for several years as it’s my piece of heaven to and from work. Really silly stuff. People can still technically walk through but they might as well install gates up to finish the job. Public should be allowed to walk through."
Q M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates is located in downtown Des Moines. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transportation routes also serve the downtown area.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the Hall, several public parking garages and street parking options are available in the surrounding downtown Des Moines area.
Yes, the Hall of Laureates is centrally located downtown, making it a walkable destination from many hotels, restaurants, and other attractions like the Iowa State Capitol.
If arriving by air, Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is a short drive away. Renting a car or using a rideshare service is convenient for reaching the Hall.
Des Moines' public bus system, DART, has several routes that stop in the downtown area, providing access to the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For general self-guided tours, admission is typically free. However, for special events like concerts or ticketed performances, you will need to purchase tickets in advance.
Public visiting hours can vary due to events. It's essential to check the official World Food Prize Hall of Laureates website for the most up-to-date schedule before planning your visit.
Absolutely! The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates is a highly sought-after venue for weddings and private events, known for its stunning beauty and accommodating services.
While self-guided tours are common, specific guided tours might be offered during certain events or by appointment. Check their website for details on available tour options.
The exhibits detailing the achievements of World Food Prize laureates are generally accessible as part of the free public visit to the Hall of Laureates.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the Beaux-Arts architecture, view exhibits on global agriculture and the fight against hunger, and experience the beauty of the stained glass window. It's also a popular venue for events.
The Hall of Laureates is a historic building, but efforts are typically made to ensure accessibility. It's advisable to contact them directly for specific accessibility information.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but videography might be restricted, especially during events. Check for posted signs or inquire with staff.
The World Food Prize is a prestigious award recognizing individuals who have advanced human development by increasing the quality, quantity, or availability of food in the world.
Access to the gardens has become more restricted recently, impacting casual public access. It's best to check current policies or inquire on-site.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Hall of Laureates itself primarily functions as a venue and museum, not a restaurant. However, numerous dining options are available in the surrounding downtown Des Moines area.
Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the Hall of Laureates, especially during events. Check their specific policies for details.
Downtown Des Moines offers a diverse culinary scene, from casual eateries and cafes to upscale dining establishments, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Yes, several coffee shops and cafes are located within walking distance of the Hall of Laureates, perfect for a pre- or post-visit refreshment.
Yes, the Hall of Laureates is a popular venue for events, and they work with various caterers to provide dining services for weddings and other functions.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand entrance, the stained glass window, the elegant interiors, and the surrounding architecture offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Professional photoshoots, especially for weddings, are common and encouraged. It's advisable to coordinate with the venue for any specific requirements or fees.
The stained glass window is a highlight and makes for stunning photographs, especially when light shines through it.
Generally, personal social media photography is welcome. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any event-specific rules.
Daytime hours, when natural light can illuminate the interior and exterior features, are ideal. Golden hour can also provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If attending a special event like a holiday open house, there might be more family-friendly activities available, such as caroling or Santa visits. Always check the event details beforehand to ensure it aligns with your family's interests and your children's attention spans. Nearby parks and interactive museums in Des Moines might offer more child-centric activities for a full family outing.
💍 Couples & Event Planners
Event planners will appreciate the venue's capacity for hosting a range of functions, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. The historic charm combined with modern event capabilities makes it a versatile choice. It's recommended to book well in advance due to its popularity.
🎶 Music & Event Enthusiasts
For the best experience at concerts, consider sitting in the front sections for optimal viewing and sound. Keep an eye on their event calendar for upcoming performances, as these ticketed events are a fantastic way to enjoy the Hall of Laureates beyond its museum function.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the World Food Prize
Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the groundbreaking work of past recipients, showcasing their dedication to science, policy, and sustainable practices. These displays offer a compelling narrative of human ingenuity and perseverance in the face of hunger and malnutrition. The Hall itself, with its impressive architecture, provides a fittingly grand setting for these inspiring stories.
Attending events or public tours at the Hall of Laureates offers a unique opportunity to connect with the mission of the World Food Prize and learn more about the ongoing efforts to achieve a hunger-free world. It's a place that inspires hope and underscores the importance of agricultural innovation.
Architectural Grandeur and Event Hosting
Beyond its architectural beauty, the Hall of Laureates is a highly sought-after venue for weddings, galas, and corporate events. Its naturally beautiful spaces, combined with excellent service, create unforgettable experiences for guests. Many couples have chosen this venue for their special day, citing its unique ambiance and the memorable impression it leaves on attendees.
Whether you're visiting for a public tour, attending a special event like a candlelight concert, or considering it for your own celebration, the Hall of Laureates offers a blend of historical significance, architectural splendor, and vibrant activity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit