|
|
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
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 frescoed paintings. The original parish dates back to 1905, and the structure is similar to St. Paul's Basilica in Rome. Guests are welcomed but are asked to observe the parish's daily mass schedule.
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
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 pieces. The tour of the house includes the entrance hall, parlor, library and dining room, as well as a Victorian bed and sitting room. The theater schedules a variety of performances that range from musical performances by groups like the Vienna Boys Choir to folk singers like Joan Baez.
|
Jordan House
2001 Fuller Rd, West Des Moines Historical Society, West Des Moines, IA 50265 · 515-225-1286
|
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
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 their way to freedom. On display in the house are various Underground exhibits as well as period pieces and furnishings from the Victorian era.
|
Salisbury House
4025 Tonawanda Dr, Des Moines, IA 50312-2999 · 515-274-1777
|
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
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 Great Hall and features exposed beams and woodwork. Guests are welcome to admire its many riches. On display are exquisite period pieces as well as a collection of unusual art relics that ranges from an ancient Cyprian pottery vase to Indian tapestries.
User Rating:
(Rate It)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
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 rotunda, marble stairway and several monuments and statues.
|
Terrace Hill
2300 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312 · 515-281-3604
|
User Rating:
(Rate It)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
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 and opulence. The site also has manicured gardens and a gift shop.
|
Wallace House
756 16th St, Des Moines, IA 50314-1601 · 515-243-7063
|
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
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 conservation and farming issues. The Wallace House is also available for hire for meetings.
Ready to look into the past and learn about the heritage of this fascinating city? We list historic homes, plantations, battlegrounds, and churches that are rich in history and provide for an educational travel diversion.
|
Print this Page
Email this Page
Click here to share it »
