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Bates Park Historic District: A Glimpse into Des Moines' Past

Explore Des Moines' Bates Park Historic District: Architecture, history, and tranquil park views await in this charming neighborhood.

The Bates Park Historic District in Des Moines, Iowa, offers a charming look into late 19th and early 20th-century architecture and urban development. Featuring well-preserved homes surrounding the tranquil Bates Park, the district provides a serene escape and a glimpse into the city's historical roots.

A brief summary to Bates Park Historic District

  • 301-399 Goode St, Des Moines, River Bend, Iowa, 50314, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the golden hour for the best lighting for photography.
  • Check for local events or guided tours to enhance your experience.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park's tranquil surroundings.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the historic streets.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the River Bend Neighborhood, the Bates Park Historic District is easily accessible on foot. ориентируйтесь towards 4th Street between Orchard and Clark Streets. The park is located approximately two blocks east of 6th Avenue and two blocks west of 2nd Avenue. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) provides bus service in the area. Several routes connect to downtown Des Moines. From DART Central Station, transfer to a route that services the River Bend neighborhood. Check the DART website for specific routes and schedules. A single ride fare is typically around $1-3.

  • Ride Share/Taxi

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, and taxis are readily available in Des Moines. A ride from downtown Des Moines to the Bates Park Historic District will cost approximately $10-20, depending on traffic and demand. Parking is available on the street.

  • Driving

    The Bates Park Historic District is located a few blocks from downtown Des Moines. From I-235, take exit 8B for East 6th Street and head south. Alternatively, from downtown, take Grand, Locust, Walnut, or Court Avenue east across the Des Moines River. Metered street parking is available, with rates ranging from $0.25 to $1.25 per hour. Free parking is available on Sundays and evenings in certain areas. Several parking garages are also nearby, with hourly rates around $1 and daily maximums between $7 and $10.

Unlock the Best of Bates Park Historic District

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Discover more about Bates Park Historic District

Located on the north side of Des Moines, the Bates Park Historic District is a window into the city's past. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1996, the district centers around Bates Park and showcases residential architecture from the late 1800s and early 1900s. The land where the historic district sits was once owned by Curtis Bates, a Des Moines lawyer and journalist. After his death, his widow Sophia platted the land in 1883, designating an area for a park. She donated the land to the city in 1900, and Bates Park was dedicated that same year. The park offers a panoramic view of the Des Moines River valley. The surrounding historic district developed as a residential area during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The district includes 23 resources, with 17 considered contributing properties. These include 14 single-family homes and two stables that once housed horses and carriages. The homes display architectural styles like Colonial Revival and American Four Square. While some homes are more elaborate, others are more modest, reflecting the diverse socio-economic classes that once populated the neighborhood. Today, the Bates Park Historic District offers visitors a chance to step back in time and appreciate the architectural heritage of Des Moines.

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