Why Visiting the LAPS Art Installation is Worth Your Time

In the past week, you may have seen an announcement or two about LAPS, the new interactive art installation in Downtown Des Moines (DSM). While it may be on your radar, maybe you haven’t actively carved out time to visit. Well, did you know that this is the first time that LAPS: A Journey Through Time – Here and Now has ever been in the U.S.? You could be one of the very first to visit the entire country, but it’s only here through the end of the month, so don’t delay!

Visiting LAPS 

When you visit LAPS, you’ll see six hourglass modules that reach eight feet in height. These modules serve as a way for visitors to be fully in the moment and, in a way, control time. When you visit, maneuver the wheel on one of the modules. You can move it at your own pace. When you do, light and sound will radiate from the hourglass as the sand moves back and forth. As you watch the movement, consider how quickly time can pass, and enjoy being in the moment with whoever it is you brought along with you to the installation, whether friends, family or your downtown coworkers following a long workday.

Art + More

Visiting LAPS in Downtown DSM will allow you to support other local businesses and see even more local art in the area. Within the Historic East Village, you’ll find plenty of restaurants. From Greek fare at Olympic Flame to Middle Eastern options from Open Sesame, there are plenty of diverse places to eat in quick proximity to LAPS. Once you’ve taken time into your hands, walk along the nearby Principal Riverwalk where you can visit other sculptures and cultural spots like the Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens, the Five Dangos near The Riverwalk Hub and the Spectral Liberation in front of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. Each of these Insta-worthy locations are worth showcasing on your feed, offering bold colors and unique structure to complement the LAPS installation. The location of LAPS is near several local shops and stores so, you can also check out the latest in apparel, shoes, books and more.

Find LAPS at 401 Robert D. Ray Dr. in Downtown DSM, across the street from Brenton Skating Plaza.

Learn more about the LAPS installation here.

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a growing, vibrant community that offers the energy, sophistication, housing and attractions of a burgeoning city with a brilliant future. It’s also easy to visit with plentiful and affordable street and ramp parking options.