Bring an ancient Asian legend to life with this family-friendly arts and culture stroll along The Avenues of Ingersoll and Grand. Walking between vibrant murals in Des Moines’ westside business district will whet everyone’s appetites. A bike up the streetscape leads to a special spot where kids can make a splash.
According to a Chinese folk tale, a humble fish aspired to know a bigger world with more diverse experiences. The creature set out on a quest to swim up the Golden Yellow River, the spawning ground for schools of carp. Although many carp attempted to journey upstream, few persevered to reach the top of the waterfall. In the story, the mythical Jade Emperor recognized the Koi for its determination by transforming it into a shining golden dragon, the embodiment of strength and power.
“The Myth of the Koi” by Jordan Sandquist & Chris Sullivan
Kids can pretend to “swim” up the streetscape, starting at “The Myth of the Koi,” a 2023 mural by Jordan Sandquist & Chris Sullivan. This one-of-a-kind pathway depicts a koi fish swimming up a staircase near 2300 Ingersoll Avenue. Challenge littles to count the number of steps as you make your way to the top. Wave to the bicycles and cars below.
Use the signaled pedestrian crosswalk to travel 0.3 miles (<10-minute walk) west along the north side of Ingersoll. Here you will find Lucky Lotus, a Southeast Asian eatery that makes a perfect lunch stop. “After School Fried Rice”and luscious “Rangoonies” are popular menu items for kiddos. A more adventurous palate might enjoy the Yellow Curry at a “Raging” spice level.
Orange chicken at Lucky Lotus
Slip out the back door, where your perseverance pays off. “Dragon In The Lotus Garden,” a 2022 mural on the back of the restaurant, looms large. The lotus symbol celebrates the restaurant owners’ parents’ bravery as refugees who left everything they knew at the end of the Vietnam War in pursuit of a better life in Iowa.
“We grew up nourished with the sweet, sour, and savory flavors of Southeast Asia,” the Chen brothers write. “Our hope is that the bold and electrifying spirit of our culture is felt throughout the walls and tasted through every bite of our food.”
Just around the corner, Crème is packed with sweet treats. The Asian-inspired bakery offers milk bread, cupcakes, cookies and more. (Grownups should also note late night hours and “munchies” menu on the weekend, too!) Scope out owner Sammy Mila’s art toy collection, too. She’s collaborated with local toy designer Kyle Kirwan on fun figures.
EXPLORE ANOTHER ITINERARY: Fine Dining & Fine Art | Trails, Cocktails & Vibes
Next, beat the heat by splashing at the Dan and Mary Kelly Family Sprayground at Greenwood Park. This hidden gem is located between the Des Moines Art Center and Ashworth Pool, two miles southwest of Crème. Ride along the raised cycletrack and Ingersoll bike lane west to 44th Street. Head south, crossing at Grand Avenue for an exhilarating downhill. The park, which also features a playground, picnic table and shelter, is tucked away at the top of the hillside. Thanks to the nearby Bill Riley Trailhead, and mountain bike trails, this area is a hub for area cyclists.
As the sun sets, close out your day with a visit to the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, an extension of the Des Moines Art Center. Works like Yoshitomo Nara’s White Ghost (2010) and a Yayoi Kusama Pumpkin greet you in the Western Gateway area of downtown. This kid-oriented Exploration Guide is packed with information and ideas for engaging the whole family in art appreciation.
This itinerary is part of our “Expand Your Palate/Palette” series, highlighting the premier culinary and creative opportunities along The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand. This project paid for in part by the Iowa Tourism Office.
