Des Moines Civic Center seating chart — Des Moines, Iowa

Discover the Premier Des Moines Civic Center Theater

The Des Moines Civic Center is more than a performing arts theater — it's a cultural anchor that brings Broadway, concerts, and world-class performers to the heart of downtown Des Moines. Planning your night is easy with the Des Moines Civic Center seating chart and a straightforward, single-level auditorium that delivers excellent views throughout the house. You’re steps from dining, nightlife, and the energy of the city.

Opened in 1979 after a major community fundraising effort, the venue seats 2,744 guests in a spacious, modern auditorium designed for Broadway-scale productions. With reserved seating across the Orchestra, Grand Tier, and Balcony and no obstructed views, you can count on clear sightlines and acoustics engineered for a wide range of performances.

From Tony- and Grammy-winning touring productions like Hamilton, Wicked, and The Lion King to legendary artists such as Yo-Yo Ma, Tony Bennett, Diana Krall, and comedians Steve Martin & Martin Short and Jerry Seinfeld, the programming is as diverse as it is acclaimed. The Broadway Series anchors each season, while concerts, dance, comedy, family entertainment, lectures, and the annual Des Moines Symphony Pops fill the calendar of Des Moines Civic Center events.

State-of-the-art sound and lighting systems elevate every performance, while accessible seating and assistive listening devices help all guests enjoy the show. The open, contemporary lobby features large glass windows that frame downtown views — a photogenic backdrop, especially for evening shows when the skyline is illuminated.

Whether you’re taking in a blockbuster musical or a one-night-only concert, this is a polished, welcoming venue that makes the arts easy to experience. With a central location and professional production standards, every visit feels special — and seamlessly executed from doors open to curtain call.

Purchase Process

Buying tickets with Ticket Purchase is simple, fast, and secure.

• Browse Events — Explore upcoming games, concerts and more.
• Pick Your Seats — Use our interactive map to view real-time availability and compare prices.
• Secure Checkout — Pay easily with card, PayPal, Apple Pay, or Affirm.
• Digital Delivery — Tickets will be sent via email or mobile entry prior to your event date.

Need Help? Here are several options in reaching our customer support team:

• You can log into your account here and live chat with one of our agents.
• You can email our team at customersupport@ticketpurchase.com.
• You can call the number on your invoice that was emailed to you immediately after your order was completed and accepted.

All tickets are 100% verified and guaranteed for on-time delivery.

Safe & Secure Ticketing — With over 1 million happy customers since 2012, we take your security seriously:

• 24/7 TrustGuard Monitoring
• SSL-encrypted checkout
• Verified Ticket Listings
• 100% authenticity guarantee
• Access to 125,000+ live events nationwide

Personalized Help Service:

• Support via phone, chat, or email
• Tailored seat suggestions based on budget, view, or group size
• Excellent service, even for a single ticket

Are Des Moines Civic Center Theater Tickets on TicketPurchase.com Legit?

Absolutely! Ticket Purchase has been a trusted name in live event ticketing since 2012, helping over 1 million customers experience the best concerts, sports, and performances worldwide.

All Des Moines Civic Center tickets purchased through TicketPurchase.com are 100% verified and guaranteed for authenticity and timely delivery. Our platform is fully protected by SSL encryption and 24/7 TrustGuard Monitoring, so you can buy confidently knowing your transaction is secure.

Whether you're buying for a sold-out concert, immersive show, or special event, Ticket Purchase gives you the confidence to buy worry-free.

Seating Recommendations and Charts

Des Moines Civic Center offers seating for approximately 2,744 guests, with a reserved, single-level auditorium layout that eliminates obstructed views and keeps sightlines clear from every section.

• Orchestra (Center Rows F–M): For the best balance of sound and stage perspective, reviews and official sources point to center Orchestra rows F–M as the venue’s sweet spot — close enough for detail, far enough for full-stage panoramas.
• Grand Tier: Elevated but still intimate, the Grand Tier provides a sweeping, centered view ideal for large-scale Broadway sets and full-stage choreography, with acoustics that remain warm and precise.
• Balcony: The Balcony offers excellent value with clear, unobstructed sightlines, making it a smart pick for fans who want the full picture of lighting, staging, and ensemble movement.
• Box Seating: Premium boxes give a more private, upscale feel along the sides, pairing comfort with strong views for concerts, lectures, and theatrical performances.
• Accessible Seating: Accessible locations are available throughout the Orchestra level and select areas elsewhere, ensuring guests with mobility needs can choose from multiple vantage points.

Use Ticket Purchase’ interactive seating chart to view live availability, compare prices, and zero in on your perfect section. If you’re mapping out a Broadway night or planning ahead for a major tour, the Des Moines Civic Center seating chart helps you quickly visualize the room and pick the view you’ll love.

Ready to secure your seats? Browse Des Moines Civic Center tickets now — events often sell out fast!

Location and Transportation

Venue Address

Des Moines Civic Center

221 Walnut Street

Des Moines, Iowa 50309

The venue sits in downtown Des Moines, steps from popular restaurants and nightlife, making it easy to plan a complete night out around your show.

• Parking: Multiple parking garages and surface lots are located nearby, with typical event rates around $5–$10. Street parking can be limited during Des Moines Civic Center events, so plan extra time if you’re aiming for metered spots.
• Public Transit: DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) bus stops are within walking distance of the venue.
• Rideshare & Dropoff: Designated pickup and dropoff zones are available on Walnut Street adjacent to the Civic Center.

Arrival Recommendations

Arrive 60–90 minutes before showtime to streamline your experience. This gives you time to park, pass through security checks, and grab concessions before settling in. If you’re using a nearby garage during peak Des Moines Civic Center events, arriving on the early side helps you avoid congestion and secure a spot close to the entrance.

Weather isn’t a factor — the venue is fully indoors — but plan for a brief outdoor walk from garages or rideshare zones. With minimal elevation changes and accessible entry points, getting from the curb to your seat is straightforward. If you like to explore, the lobby’s large glass windows offer terrific city views, especially at dusk.

Public transit riders can use nearby DART stops to arrive within easy walking distance. Rideshare users should set their pin for Walnut Street to access the designated zones. Having your tickets ready on your phone and bags organized for security will make entry fast and smooth.

Venue Navigation

Inside, the layout is intuitive: a modern, single-level auditorium with clearly marked sections for Orchestra, Grand Tier, and Balcony. Ushers are stationed throughout to guide you to your row, with accessible routes supported by ramps and elevators for all levels.

Concession stands serve snacks, soft drinks, beer, and wine — including local Iowa craft beers and specialty cocktails at select events. You’ll also find merchandise stands during Broadway productions and select concerts, plus ATMs in the lobby and free Wi-Fi in public areas. Restrooms and guest services are easy to access from the lobby and concourse. With minimal stairs and comfortable walking paths, it’s a venue where you can move easily and enjoy the show without stress.

Security and Policies

• Bag Policy: Small bags and purses only; large bags and backpacks are not permitted. Security checks occur at entry.
• Prohibited Items: Weapons, outside food and drink, large bags, cameras with detachable lenses, recording devices, and smoking/vaping devices.
• Re-entry Policy: No re-entry allowed once your ticket is scanned.
• Service Animals: Permitted for guests with disabilities.

Post-Purchase Tips — Be Ready for Event Day

• Download your tickets before arriving — cell service can be limited.
• Bring a valid ID and cashless payment option.
• Charge your phone fully.
• Review venue policies in advance.
• Arrive 60–90 minutes early to navigate parking and security with ease.
• Don’t miss the lobby’s large glass windows — they frame great downtown views before and after the show.

Pre-Event Planning

Build a complete evening around your performance. With its downtown location, you can book dinner nearby, stroll to the venue, and still arrive early to enjoy the lobby and find your seats. If you’re planning for a popular Broadway night or a major concert, check the schedule of Des Moines Civic Center events in advance and secure parking or a rideshare dropoff window that lines up with your plans.

Inside, concessions feature snacks, soft drinks, beer, and wine — including local craft options at select events — so you can grab a quick refreshment before curtain. Coordinating with a group? Choose a meeting point near the main lobby or merchandise stand to make gathering simple before heading to your section. With reserved seating and no obstructed views, you can split tickets across sections and still enjoy a unified experience of the production.

If skyline views are your thing, arrive a bit early for photos through the lobby’s large windows — the downtown backdrop is especially striking at night. Keep an eye on the Broadway Series and touring schedule to discover new Des Moines Civic Center events that match your interests throughout the year.

Accessibility

Des Moines Civic Center is ADA-accessible, with accessible seating options throughout the Orchestra level and select areas in other sections, ADA parking in nearby garages and lots, elevators and ramps providing access to all levels, and assistive listening devices available at Guest Services. An accessible drop-off at the main entrance helps guests minimize walking distance.

For assistance choosing accessible seating, contact Ticket Purchase for personalized support before purchasing.

Dining Options

Inside the venue, you’ll find concessions serving snacks, soft drinks, beer, and wine, with local Iowa craft beers and specialty cocktails available at select events. It’s convenient for a quick bite or a celebratory toast, with ATMs and free Wi-Fi in public areas to keep things easy.

Food and Restaurants Near Des Moines Civic Center Theater

If you're arriving early or staying nearby, there are excellent dining options in downtown Des Moines, all within a quick walk or short drive:

• Centro (Downtown) — Upscale Italian restaurant known for wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta.
• Django (Downtown) — French brasserie offering steak frites, seafood, and classic French fare.
• RoCA (Downtown) — Trendy spot for American small plates and creative cocktails.
• The Royal Mile (Downtown) — British-style pub with classic pub fare and a large beer selection.
• Exile Brewing Company (Downtown) — Local brewery and restaurant serving craft beers and American classics.
• Fong’s Pizza (Downtown) — Eclectic pizzeria famous for Asian-inspired pizzas and tiki drinks.
• Zombie Burger + Drink Lab (East Village) — Themed burger joint known for inventive burgers and shakes.
• Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. (Downtown) — Brewpub with hearty American fare and house-brewed beers.

These nearby spots make it easy to grab a delicious meal or drink before heading into the show.

Other Venues in Des Moines

Des Moines and its surrounding areas offer a thriving live entertainment scene — and Ticket Purchase connects you to them all:

• Wells Fargo Arena — Multi-purpose arena hosting Iowa Wild (AHL hockey), Iowa Wolves (NBA G League), concerts, and major sporting events.
• Hoyt Sherman Place — Historic theater known for concerts, comedy, and community events.
• Temple Theater — Intimate venue operated by Des Moines Performing Arts, hosting Off-Broadway and comedy shows.
• Brenton Skating Plaza — Outdoor ice skating rink and event venue along the Des Moines River.
• Val Air Ballroom — Historic ballroom and concert venue in West Des Moines.
• Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park — Outdoor amphitheater for concerts and festivals.
• Iowa State Fairgrounds Grandstand — Large outdoor venue for concerts and events during the Iowa State Fair.
• Des Moines Community Playhouse — Community theater presenting plays and musicals year-round.

Ready to catch your next show in the city? Browse Des Moines events now and secure verified tickets through Ticket Purchase today.

Other Things to Do in Des Moines

Beyond the performances, the Des Moines area offers incredible attractions for visitors heading to Des Moines Civic Center:

• Pappajohn Sculpture Park — Outdoor park featuring large-scale sculptures by renowned artists.
• Iowa State Capitol — Iconic gold-domed building offering guided tours and panoramic city views.
• Des Moines Art Center — Museum with collections of modern and contemporary art.
• Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden — Indoor and outdoor gardens showcasing diverse plant species.
• Science Center of Iowa — Interactive science museum with planetarium and hands-on exhibits.
• East Village — Vibrant neighborhood known for shopping, dining, and nightlife.
• Blank Park Zoo — Family-friendly zoo with animals from around the world.
• Principal Park — Minor league baseball stadium, home to the Iowa Cubs.
• Gray’s Lake Park — Urban park with walking trails, boating, and scenic views.
• Salisbury House & Gardens — Historic mansion and museum with beautiful gardens.

Secure Your Seats for Des Moines Civic Center Theater Today

Don't wait — Des Moines Civic Center events often sell out quickly. With a Broadway-ready stage, superb acoustics, and a simple Des Moines Civic Center seating chart that makes picking your view effortless, Ticket Purchase is your go-to source for verified, hassle-free ticketing. Whether you’re planning a special night out or treating yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime show, we’ll help you find the right seats fast.

Browse tickets now and experience the magic of live entertainment at one of the world's most iconic venues.

Call us at 1-866-549-4077 to purchase tickets by phone.