Western Gateway Park

Western Gateway Park is an urban park located in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. Opened in 2006, the park spans approximately 13 acres at the western entrance to the city's downtown area. It serves as a focal point for the community, hosting various events and providing green space in the heart of the city.

The park incorporates a mix of green spaces and buildings, blending public and private areas. One of its most notable features is the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, which occupies 4.4 acres of the park. This sculpture garden, opened in 2009, showcases 28 works of art donated by the Pappajohns, representing the largest donation of artwork ever made to the Des Moines Art Center. The sculpture park features works by renowned artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Jaume Plensa, Deborah Butterfield, and Judith Shea.

Western Gateway Park has become a central location for various community events and festivals. It hosts the Des Moines Arts Festival, the 80/35 Music Festival, and has been the site of political rallies, including a speech by Barack Obama just days before his election as president in 2008. The park's design allows for versatile use, accommodating large gatherings while also providing space for everyday recreation and relaxation.

The park is surrounded by a mix of historic and modern architecture, reflecting the area's urban renewal. Notable buildings in the vicinity include the central branch of the Des Moines Public Library, the Temple for Performing Arts, and the Des Moines center for the University of Iowa. The Krause Gateway Center, designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, opened in 2019 on the park's edge, further enhancing the area's architectural significance.

Western Gateway Park has played a crucial role in the revitalization of this part of Des Moines, attracting businesses, residents, and visitors to the area. It serves as an example of successful urban planning, combining cultural attractions, green space, and community gathering areas in a cohesive design.