Middlesex Plat Historic District: A Glimpse into Des Moines' Past
Step back in time in Des Moines' Middlesex Plat Historic District, featuring charming early 20th-century homes and architecture.
The Middlesex Plat Historic District in Des Moines, Iowa, is a well-preserved residential area featuring square houses and bungalows built between 1910 and 1923. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it offers a glimpse into upper-middle-class life in the early 20th century.
A brief summary to Middlesex Plat Historic District
- 3207 School St, Des Moines, Drake, Iowa, 50311, US
Local tips
- Take a leisurely walk through the district to admire the unique architecture and well-preserved homes.
- Visit during the weekend for possible guided walking tours led by local historians.
- Bring a camera to capture the intricate architectural details and the serene environment of the district.
Getting There
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Walking
The Middlesex Plat Historic District is located in the Drake neighborhood of Des Moines. From Drake University, head south on 31st Street. The historic district begins around Center Street and extends south to Woodland Avenue. Walking within the district is free.
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Public Transport
The Des Moines DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) provides bus service to the Drake neighborhood. Check the DART website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride fare is $1.75 [https://www.ridedart.com/fares].
Discover more about Middlesex Plat Historic District
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Middlesex Plat Historic District
0.0 km
Explore the Middlesex Plat Historic District in Des Moines, Iowa, where history, architecture, and culture intertwine to create a memorable travel experience.
Mahnke House
1.1 km
Discover the Mahnke House, a historical landmark in Des Moines, Iowa, showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage amidst serene gardens.
Witmer House
1.3 km
Discover the rich history and unique antiques at the Witmer House, a must-visit historical landmark in Des Moines, Iowa.
Herndon Hall
1.9 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of Herndon Hall, a captivating landmark in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa.
Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker
2.3 km
Discover the legacy of resilience at the Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker, a tribute to Des Moines' vibrant Black business district history.
Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden
2.3 km
Explore the Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden in Downtown Des Moines for a peaceful experience filled with stunning flora and innovative gardening inspiration.
Temple Theater
2.8 km
Discover the enchanting Temple Theater in Downtown Des Moines, a premier venue for performing arts, concerts, and community events.
Saint Paul's Episcopal Cathedral
2.8 km
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Saint Paul's Episcopal Cathedral, a hidden gem in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa.
River Bend Neighborhood
2.9 km
Experience tranquility in the heart of Des Moines at River Bend Neighborhood Park, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families.
The Des Moines Building
3.1 km
Experience urban living at The Des Moines Building, where comfort meets convenience in the heart of Downtown Des Moines.
Polk County Historic Courthouse
3.3 km
Explore the majestic Polk County Historic Courthouse, a stunning architectural gem symbolizing Des Moines' rich history and culture.
Bates Park Historic District
3.4 km
Discover the charm of Bates Park Historic District, a historical landmark in Des Moines, showcasing stunning architecture and rich local heritage.
The Oaklands Historic District
3.5 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of The Oaklands Historic District in Des Moines, Iowa, a must-visit for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
Court District
3.6 km
Discover the unique community spirit and vibrant culture of the Court District in downtown Des Moines, where art and non-profit initiatives thrive.
Unmissable attractions to see
Salisbury House & Gardens
2.0 km
Explore the exquisite Salisbury House & Gardens, a cultural treasure in Des Moines, Iowa, blending historic architecture with stunning gardens.
Des Moines Art Center
2.1 km
Explore world-class art and architecture at the Des Moines Art Center, a cultural hub with free admission and stunning collections.
Giant Garden Trowel
2.2 km
Discover the Giant Garden Trowel in Downtown Des Moines, a captivating sculpture celebrating the city's horticultural heritage and artistic charm.
Clare and Miles Mills Rose Garden
2.3 km
Discover over 200 rose varieties in a serene Des Moines garden, a vibrant and fragrant escape within Greenwood Park.
Greenwood - Ashworth Park
2.4 km
Explore the enchanting Greenwood - Ashworth Park in Des Moines, Iowa, a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and family-friendly fun.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
2.4 km
Explore Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a stunning outdoor gallery in Downtown Des Moines showcasing contemporary art amidst beautiful landscapes.
Gray's Lake Park
3.0 km
Experience the tranquility of Gray's Lake Park, a beautiful urban oasis in Des Moines, offering stunning views, outdoor activities, and a perfect escape.
Des Moines Water Works Park
3.1 km
Explore 1,500 acres of natural beauty, recreation, and community events at Des Moines Water Works Park, an urban oasis in Des Moines.
Des Moines Sky Walks
3.2 km
Discover the interconnected beauty of downtown Des Moines with the Sky Walks, a unique pedestrian experience connecting attractions, shops, and eateries.
The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction
3.2 km
Experience the ultimate fright at The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction in Des Moines, IA, where fear meets entertainment in a thrilling adventure.
Ashby Park
3.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Ashby Park, a lush urban retreat in Des Moines, perfect for picnics, walks, and family fun amidst nature's beauty.
Cowles Commons
3.4 km
A vibrant downtown Des Moines public space featuring art, events, and an interactive fountain for community engagement and enjoyment.
Rotary Riverwalk Park
3.4 km
Explore the beauty of Rotary Riverwalk Park in Des Moines, a serene urban oasis perfect for relaxation, recreation, and picturesque views along the river.
Des Moines Civic Center
3.5 km
Discover the Des Moines Civic Center, the premier destination for performing arts in Iowa, where world-class shows and community spirit come together.
Augmented Reality Mural -interactive- on Northern-most half pike
3.5 km
Experience the innovative fusion of art and technology at the Augmented Reality Mural in Downtown Des Moines, where every visit reveals hidden wonders.
Essential places to dine
Jesse's Embers
1.0 km
Discover culinary excellence at Jesse's Embers – Des Moines' premier steakhouse offering fine dining with an inviting atmosphere.
Cheese Bar
1.1 km
Discover the ultimate American dining experience at Cheese Bar in Des Moines, featuring unique drinks and delicious cheese-infused dishes.
Eatery A
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Eatery A in Des Moines – where every dish tells a story.
Harbinger
1.2 km
Experience innovative New American cuisine at Harbinger, where local ingredients meet culinary artistry in Des Moines.
Lachele's Fine Foods
1.3 km
Discover Lachele's Fine Foods in Des Moines: Where American cuisine meets seasonal creativity for an unforgettable dining experience.
Noah's Ark Ristorante
1.4 km
Discover the essence of Italy at Noah's Ark Ristorante in Des Moines - where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.
Aposto at the Scala House
1.8 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Aposto at the Scala House in Des Moines—where tradition meets modern dining.
A Dong Restaurant
2.1 km
Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at A Dong Restaurant in Des Moines, where vibrant flavors meet affordable dining options.
Allora Cafe
2.3 km
Discover the essence of Italy at Allora Cafe in Downtown Des Moines – where every meal tells a delicious story.
Django
2.5 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Django in Downtown Des Moines – where culinary artistry meets elegant dining.
The Walnut
2.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at The Walnut in Downtown Des Moines—where local flavors meet innovative dishes in a welcoming ambiance.
Americana
2.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Americana in Downtown Des Moines - where great food meets vibrant atmosphere.
Flying Mango
2.6 km
Discover the heart of Southern cuisine at Flying Mango in Des Moines – where barbecue dreams come true!
Centro
2.8 km
Discover Centro in Downtown Des Moines – where authentic Italian cuisine meets vibrant local culture in an inviting atmosphere.
801 Chophouse
2.8 km
Experience the finest steaks and seafood at 801 Chophouse in Downtown Des Moines - where culinary excellence meets elegant ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ancient Ways
1.0 km
Uncover the secrets of spirituality and holistic practices at Ancient Ways, Des Moines' premier metaphysical supply store offering an array of mystical products.
Enchanted Mystical Boutique
1.1 km
Explore a magical realm at the Enchanted Mystical Boutique, where spirituality meets unique gifts in the heart of Des Moines.
Pop & Nod
1.1 km
Explore Pop & Nod, a charming boutique in Des Moines, offering unique gifts, baby items, and stylish clothing for discerning shoppers.
Worn-A Modern Resale Boutique
1.1 km
Explore Worn, Des Moines' modern consignment boutique for unique women's clothing, handbags, shoes, and sustainable fashion.
Shops At Roosevelt
1.1 km
Discover a shopper's paradise at Shops At Roosevelt in Des Moines, Iowa, offering diverse stores, delicious dining, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Wonderland Apothecary at Groovy Goods
1.2 km
Explore Wonderland Apothecary: A Unique Metaphysical Supply Store in Des Moines Offering Herbal Remedies and Astrological Insights.
Groovy Goods Daydreams - Tobacco Pipes & Hippie Clothing
1.2 km
Explore a vibrant blend of tobacco pipes and hippie clothing at Groovy Goods Daydreams, a unique gift shop in Des Moines.
Shop33
1.4 km
Explore the enchanting world of metaphysical supplies at Shop33 in Des Moines, where spiritual wellness meets unique treasures.
Funky Finds Vintage & Retro
2.0 km
Explore Funky Finds Vintage & Retro in Des Moines – your ultimate destination for unique gifts, vintage clothing, and eclectic treasures.
The Plaza Shoppe
2.3 km
Discover unique treasures and local crafts at The Plaza Shoppe, a delightful gift shop in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Domestica
2.6 km
Explore the artistic heart of Des Moines at Domestica, where unique gifts and local artistry come together in a charming gift shop experience.
Sundus Fashion and Decor
2.6 km
Explore Sundus Fashion and Decor in Des Moines, where fashion meets home decor in a vibrant shopping experience filled with unique finds.
Vzz Vintage
3.7 km
Explore Vzz Vintage in Downtown Des Moines for one-of-a-kind clothing that celebrates style and sustainability.
Chapter 2 Jewelry, Apparel, and Accessories
4.0 km
Explore Chapter 2 Jewelry, Apparel, and Accessories in Des Moines for unique jewelry and stylish fashion finds that reflect your personal style.
MARNe
4.0 km
Explore MARNe in Des Moines' East Village for a unique boutique shopping experience filled with local artistry and curated goods.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Star Bar
1.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of food, drinks, and vibrant atmosphere at Star Bar in Des Moines, Iowa.
Juniper Moon
1.8 km
Experience the unique cocktail culture at Juniper Moon, a must-visit bar in Des Moines offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
Carl's Place
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Carl's Place, a cozy bar in Des Moines offering a wide selection of drinks and lively entertainment.
Hello, Marjorie
3.0 km
Experience the creative cocktail culture of Des Moines at Hello, Marjorie, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await.
the LiFT
3.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Des Moines at The LiFT, a trendy bar and nightclub offering craft cocktails and unforgettable entertainment.
The Copper Cup
3.5 km
Discover The Copper Cup, a vibrant bar in Downtown Des Moines, offering craft cocktails, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Pints Bar Rooftop - PBR Country
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Des Moines at Pints Bar Rooftop, where stunning views and great drinks create unforgettable moments.
Revival House
3.5 km
Experience a tropical escape at Revival House, Des Moines' premier tiki bar offering exotic cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere right in downtown.
Tonic Court Ave.
3.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tonic Court, a bustling bar and lounge in Downtown Des Moines, perfect for drinks, music, and sports.
Shorty's Somewhat Fancy Bar
3.6 km
Experience the vibrant energy and cozy charm of Shorty's Somewhat Fancy Bar, a hidden gem in Downtown Des Moines offering craft cocktails and local brews.
300 Craft & Rooftop
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning skyline views at 300 Craft & Rooftop, the perfect bar experience in Downtown Des Moines.
El Bait Shop
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant dining experience at El Bait Shop, where local flavors meet craft cocktails in Downtown Des Moines.
The High Life Lounge
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant 70s vibe and delicious American cuisine at The High Life Lounge in Downtown Des Moines, a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Sully's Irish Pub
3.9 km
Sully's Irish Pub: A lively Irish bar in West Des Moines offering delicious food, a vast drink selection, and vibrant live entertainment.
Black Sheep
4.0 km
Discover Black Sheep Bar in Des Moines: A cocktail haven with a lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and socializing in East Village.
