4. Des Moines Art Center

This is a world-class museum, so says the New York Times and so say I. The Edward Hopper collection is outstanding as is their entire collection of modern art, and the Andy Goldsworthy cairn is equal to his works at the New York and San Diego Contemporary Museums of Art. And admission is free. The museum is secluded in a beautiful, lush, absolutely noiseless city park making one feel as if they were miles away from a city. A must see if you're traveling through the Midwest. Los Angeles is my home and I've visited all the local museums including The Getty; however, and I am somewhat embarrassed to admit, that the setting, architecture, and absolute quality of this little gem made me more than a little envious.