The World Food Prize Foundation

Public Tours

The World Food Prize Hall of Laureates tells a story in every room – from the building’s rich history as the Des Moines Public Library, to the Foundation’s celebrated agricultural and humanitarian pioneers there is something for every visitor. 

TOUR INFORMATION

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday - Contact for availability

Tuesday Open House - 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Guided tours are available at the following times:
9:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 1:30 p.m.
Reservations required for groups 10+, not required for groups smaller than 10

Wednesday - By reservation, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Thursday - By reservation, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Friday - Contact for availability

To make a private or group tour reservation, please email Historic Tour Manager Kate Levasseur (klevasseur@worldfoodprize.org). Reservations are strongly encouraged one week in advance of your desired tour time. Reservations made less than a week in advance will be accommodated if possible, but are not guaranteed. No same or next-day reservations are available. 

If you are interested in venue tours for a wedding or corporate event, please contact Building Event Manager Monica Gatrost (mgatrost@worldfoodprize.org).

SPECIAL CLOSURES

October 16-20 - No additional tours available
October 22-27  - Special hours due to International Borlaug Dialogue; no Tuesday Open House
October 30-November 3 - Hall of Laureates Closed


ADMISSION

There is no fee for tours given during regular business hours. Evening and weekend tour times may be available, but staffing and cleaning fees may apply.
 

The Hall of Laureates is closed for tours on Federal holidays as well as occasionally due to Foundation or private events. Closures due to Foundation or special events will be posted here and also on our social media channels.


PARKING AND ACCESSIBILITY

As there is no on-site parking available, guests are asked to park at the meters located around the building or in the surrounding parking ramps. The closest parking ramps are 3rd and Court and 4th and Grand.

The Hall of Laureates has accessible entrances on both the east and west sides of the building, and an elevator to all public floors. There is seating available in most rooms which visitors are welcome to use. No wheelchairs or other mobility aids are available for visitor use.

© 2023 The World Food Prize Foundation. All Rights Reserved.