Des Moines Attractions & Activities

Historic Sites

Address: 1915 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314

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Campaniles (bell towers), a striking red tile roof and detailed Romanesque architecture mark the exterior of this local church, and the Basilica of St. John is just as stunning inside. The church has 46 stained glass windows, barrel-vaulted ceilings, the 14 Stations of the Cross lined by 12 candlesticks, and several...

Address: 75 E Army Post Rd, Des Moines, IA 50315

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This local museum showcases the historic roles African-Americans and women have played in the US military. In 1917, Fort Des Moines trained the Army's first black officers and, during World War II, the site was where the Women's Auxiliary Army Corps was stationed. The museum features a number of educational and...

Address: 1501 Woodland Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309-3283

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Step back into the Victorian era at the Hoyt Sherman Place. Originally built in 1877 as a manor home, a theater was added in 1923 and the structure is now a multi-purpose facility. Visitors can take a guided tour and see an impressive 17th century furnishings collection, as well as several 19th and 20th century art...

Address: 2001 Fuller Rd, West Des Moines Historical Society, West Des Moines, IA 50265

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Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this Italian gothic-designed house was built in 1850. The Jordan House is best known for owner James C. Jordan's active role in the "Underground Railroad" movement. Jordan, who was a farmer and eventually a state senator, used the family home to shelter fugitives on...

Address: 2600 111th St NW, Urbandale, IA 50322

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With hard work and effort, America's prairie land eventually became its breadbasket, and the Living History Farms chronicle how early settlers and farmers worked the area. Visitors to this 600-acre living museum can see how Native Americans planted maize and lived during the 18th century. Also on display is a pioneer...

Address: 4025 Tonawanda Dr, Des Moines, IA 50312-2999

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Flint from the Cliffs of Dover, English and Indiana blackstone grace the exterior of this English Tudor castle commissioned by Carl and Edith Weeks. Built from 1923 to 1928, Salisbury House features 42 elaborate rooms and is designed to look like the King's Hall in Salisbury, England. The house centers on the castle's...

Address: 1005 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50319

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Four corner domes encircle an impressive 23-karat gold-gilded center dome at the Iowa State Capitol. The building is home to the legislative branches of state government, as well as to the Supreme Court and the governor's offices. Guests can tour the site and admire its architectural detailing, which includes an open...

Address: 2300 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312

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This 21-room home is a prime example of second empire architecture. Terrace Hill is now home to Iowa's governor, but entrepreneur Benjamin F. Allen built it originally in 1869. The mansion features stained glass windows, crystal chandeliers and an elaborate grand staircase. It is a prime example of Victorian richness...

Address: 756 16th St, Des Moines, IA 50314-1601

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Located on Sherman Hill and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this Des Moines landmark is impressive. The Wallace House dates back to 1882 and features Italianate Victorian architecture. The site now serves as a museum and displays various exhibits that showcase owner Henry Wallace's involvement in...