COWLES COMMONS
Originally known as Nollen Plaza, Cowles Commons was completed in 2015 and represents a significant commitment by DMPA to give back to the community. The newly designed space retains the popular Crusoe Umbrella by artist Claes Oldenburg and adds lighting sculpture Swirl by artist Jim Campbell. Joining the sculptures is the popular zero-depth Lauridsen Fountain which can be enjoyed throughout the warm months.
The space was designed to be multifunctional and hosts numerous community events.
TOURS
Want an inside look at any of Des Moines Performing Arts' performance venues? Tours can be arranged for groups of 8 or more. To inquire about tour date availability, send us an email at info@desmoinesperformingarts.org.
Venue Information
Cowles Commons
313 Walnut St.
Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 246-2300
Get Directions
Hours of Operation:
Cowles Commons
Daily: 6 AM to Midnight
Lauridsen Fountain Hours
Sunday - Friday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Hours subject to change for events
Cowles Commons Policies and Rules
"The fact that our son was working with Broadway professionals and getting vocal and acting lessons from people who actually acted on Broadway was stunning."
- Jennifer, Altoona parent
"After summer camp, she spent a lot of time developing plays with her friends. She was interested before, but now she thinks she's a director and an actress and ... just anything."
- Catherine, parent of second-grader Meg in Des Moines