Terrace Hill: Iowa's Victorian Masterpiece
Step back in time at Terrace Hill, Iowa's Governor's Residence, and explore Victorian elegance and rich history in a stunning Second Empire mansion.
Terrace Hill, Iowa's Governor's Residence and a National Historic Landmark, is a stunning example of Second Empire architecture. Built in 1869, this Des Moines mansion offers guided tours showcasing its lavish interiors and rich history. The surrounding gardens provide a tranquil escape, making it a unique blend of history and beauty.
A brief summary to Terrace Hill Historic Site
- 2300 Grand Ave, Des Moines, Iowa, 50312, US
- +1515-281-7205
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Reservations are required for tours and must be made at least 48 hours in advance by calling 515-281-7205.
- Tours are available Tuesday through Saturday at 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM, March through December.
- Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children ages 6-12, and free for children 5 and under; cash or check only.
- Free parking is available in the Terrace Hill parking lot at the corner of Forest Drive and Grand Avenue, and on surrounding streets.
Getting There
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Walking
From the intersection of Grand Avenue and 23rd Street, head west on Grand Avenue towards Terrace Hill. The entrance is located near the flag pavilion on Forest Drive. Look for the pedestrian gate where a trooper will be stationed about 10 minutes before your tour. Note that late admittance is not permitted. There is no cost associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Take a DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) bus to the intersection of 42nd Street and Grand Avenue. From there, walk approximately 0.5 miles west on Grand Avenue to Terrace Hill. The entrance is located near the flag pavilion on Forest Drive. Check the DART schedule for routes and times. A single ride fare is $1.75.
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Taxi/Ride-share
From downtown Des Moines, a taxi or ride-share to Terrace Hill will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The drop-off point is near the intersection of Grand Avenue and Forest Drive. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for the ride.
Discover more about Terrace Hill Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Herndon Hall
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Mahnke House
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Witmer House
0.7 km
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Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden
1.0 km
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Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker
1.5 km
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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
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Bates Park Historic District
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Unmissable attractions to see
Giant Garden Trowel
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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
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Des Moines Sky Walks
2.1 km
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The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction
2.1 km
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Cowles Commons
2.3 km
A vibrant downtown Des Moines public space featuring art, events, and an interactive fountain for community engagement and enjoyment.
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
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Django
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The Walnut
1.2 km
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Americana
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Centro
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Proudfoot & Bird
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Bubba
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Funky Finds Vintage & Retro
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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
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Groovy Goods Daydreams - Tobacco Pipes & Hippie Clothing
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Ancient Ways
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Vzz Vintage
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Pop & Nod
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Shops At Roosevelt
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Worn-A Modern Resale Boutique
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MARNe
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Janes - Family Shop
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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
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Revival House
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Tonic Court Ave.
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300 Craft & Rooftop
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Shorty's Somewhat Fancy Bar
2.5 km
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El Bait Shop
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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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