This Stunning Pagoda Statue In Des Moines Will Transport You To Asia

Located along the Des Moines River in Iowa’s largest city, you’ll find a park that transports you to another place and time. The Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens boast stunning architecture, but they also have a surprising link to the city’s history. Why is there a massive pagoda filled with statues and waterfalls in the middle of Iowa? Step inside and discover one of the city’s best-kept secrets.

It’s impossible to walk the banks of the Des Moines River without stopping to stare in amazement at the Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens. How did this piece of Asia wind up in Iowa?

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As you step into the grounds, make sure to take a look at the available map. There are a lot of hidden secrets in this peaceful slice of Des Moines.

Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation

As you walk down the path to the famous pagoda, make sure to take a look at the flora in the area. The artists behind the garden made sure to get every detail right - even the plants.

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One of the garden’s signature spots is the diversity circle, which pays tribute to the role Asian immigrants played in helping to build Des Moines.

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The gardens are named after former Governor Robert D. Way, who led the way in the city being the first area in the USA to accept Vietnamese refugees. An act worthy of being “lionized”.

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The Character Garden is another famous spot in the gardens. The six boulders here are each inscribed with a Chinese character representing a virtue of good character.

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The garden has continued to evolve, with new monuments being added by future governors and donors since its completion in 2009 by the Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation.

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Much like Des Moines wouldn’t be what it is today without its diverse population, the city’s skyline wouldn’t be the same without this stunning pagoda.

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If you’ve enjoyed the unique and peaceful environment of the Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens before, let us know about your trip in the comments section. The Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation is developing new projects regularly, so visit their website and the garden’s designated page to find out more.