Discover the Charm of Terrace Hill Historic Site
Explore Iowa's rich history at Terrace Hill Historic Site, the Governor's residence known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
Terrace Hill Historic Site in Des Moines, Iowa, is a stunning historical landmark and a must-visit for tourists. With its rich history and beautiful architecture, it offers a glimpse into Iowa's past.
A brief summary to Terrace Hill Historic Site
- 2300 Grand Ave, Des Moines, Iowa, 50312, US
- +1515-281-7205
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan your visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, as weekends can be busier.
- Check the official website for seasonal events and guided tour schedules.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the expansive grounds and gardens.
- Photography is allowed, so bring your camera to capture the mansion's beauty.
Getting There
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Walking
From the heart of Downtown Des Moines, head west on Locust Street toward 12th Street. Continue straight for about 0.5 miles until you reach 23rd Street. Turn left onto 23rd Street and follow it until you reach Grand Avenue. Turn right on Grand Avenue, and after about 0.3 miles, you will see Terrace Hill Historic Site on your left at 2300 Grand Ave. The total walking distance is approximately 1 mile, which should take roughly 20-25 minutes.
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Public Bus
If you prefer to use public transportation, catch the DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) bus at any of the nearby stops in Downtown Des Moines. Take the Route 1 (Grand Ave) bus heading west. The bus will take you directly along Grand Avenue. Disembark at the stop closest to 2300 Grand Ave. The bus fare is $1.25 for a single ride. The bus ride should take about 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Discover more about Terrace Hill Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Herndon Hall
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Mahnke House
0.6 km
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Witmer House
0.7 km
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Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden
1.0 km
Discover the beauty and creativity of urban gardening at the Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden in downtown Des Moines, a serene escape for nature lovers.
Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker
1.5 km
Discover the legacy of resilience at the Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker, a tribute to Des Moines' vibrant Black business district history.
Temple Theater
1.6 km
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Middlesex Plat Historic District
1.7 km
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Saint Paul's Episcopal Cathedral
1.7 km
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The Des Moines Building
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Polk County Historic Courthouse
2.1 km
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Court District
2.4 km
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River Bend Neighborhood
3.2 km
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Bates Park Historic District
3.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Giant Garden Trowel
0.8 km
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Pappajohn Sculpture Park
1.2 km
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Gray's Lake Park
1.3 km
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Salisbury House & Gardens
1.9 km
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Des Moines Sky Walks
2.1 km
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The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction
2.1 km
Experience the ultimate fright at The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction in Des Moines, IA, where fear meets entertainment in a thrilling adventure.
Cowles Commons
2.3 km
Experience the blend of art, nature, and community at Cowles Commons, the cultural heart of Des Moines, Iowa.
Science Center of Iowa
2.3 km
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Des Moines Water Works Park
2.4 km
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Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market
2.4 km
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Des Moines Civic Center
2.4 km
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World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
2.6 km
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Rotary Riverwalk Park
2.6 km
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Des Moines Art Center
2.7 km
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Clare and Miles Mills Rose Garden
2.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Noah's Ark Ristorante
0.3 km
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Lachele's Fine Foods
0.5 km
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Harbinger
0.5 km
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Eatery A
0.8 km
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Cheese Bar
0.8 km
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Aposto at the Scala House
0.8 km
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Jesse's Embers
1.1 km
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A Dong Restaurant
1.1 km
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Allora Cafe
1.1 km
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Django
1.1 km
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The Walnut
1.2 km
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Americana
1.2 km
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Centro
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Proudfoot & Bird
1.6 km
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Bubba
1.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Funky Finds Vintage & Retro
0.7 km
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Shop33
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The Plaza Shoppe
1.4 km
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Enchanted Mystical Boutique
1.5 km
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Domestica
1.8 km
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Wonderland Apothecary at Groovy Goods
1.9 km
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Groovy Goods Daydreams - Tobacco Pipes & Hippie Clothing
1.9 km
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Ancient Ways
1.9 km
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Vzz Vintage
2.3 km
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Pop & Nod
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Shops At Roosevelt
2.4 km
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Worn-A Modern Resale Boutique
2.4 km
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MARNe
3.0 km
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Janes - Family Shop
3.1 km
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Chapter 2 Jewelry, Apparel, and Accessories
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Juniper Moon
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Star Bar
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Carl's Place
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Hello, Marjorie
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the LiFT
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The Copper Cup
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Pints Bar Rooftop - PBR Country
2.3 km
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Revival House
2.3 km
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Tonic Court Ave.
2.5 km
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300 Craft & Rooftop
2.5 km
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Shorty's Somewhat Fancy Bar
2.5 km
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El Bait Shop
2.5 km
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The High Life Lounge
2.6 km
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Black Sheep
3.0 km
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Ken's - a not so secret speakeasy
3.0 km
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