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Salisbury House & Gardens: A Glimpse into the Roaring Twenties

Step back in time at Des Moines' Salisbury House & Gardens, a stunning 1920s mansion filled with art, history, and old-world charm.

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Salisbury House & Gardens in Des Moines, Iowa, is a historic house museum built in the 1920s by cosmetics magnate Carl Weeks and his wife, Edith. Modeled after the King's House in Salisbury, England, this 42-room mansion showcases an impressive collection of art, furniture, and artifacts from around the world. Visitors can explore the family's original collection and stroll through the beautiful gardens.

A brief summary to Salisbury House & Gardens

Local tips

  • Check the Salisbury House & Gardens website for special events, closures, and holiday decorations.
  • Consider a guided tour for in-depth insights into the house's history and the Weeks family.
  • Visit during the spring or fall to see the gardens in full bloom or vibrant color.
  • Allow at least 1.5 - 2 hours to fully explore the house and gardens.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Salisbury House & Gardens is located at 4025 Tonawanda Drive in Des Moines. From downtown Des Moines, head west on I-235. Take exit 8A for 42nd Street. Turn right onto 42nd Street, then turn left onto Tonawanda Drive. The Salisbury House will be on your left. Parking is available on-site. Expect to pay around $1-$2 per hour for parking in the area.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Des Moines, you can take the DART Route 60 (Southwest) bus towards Salisbury House & Gardens. The ride takes approximately 25 minutes. Disembark at the stop near 40th Street & Tonawanda Drive. Walk east on Tonawanda Drive to the entrance of Salisbury House. A single ride on DART costs $1.75.

  • Walking

    If you are near Drake University, Salisbury House & Gardens is approximately a 20-minute walk. Head north on 31st Street, then turn right onto Forest Avenue. Turn left onto Polk Boulevard, then turn right onto Tonawanda Drive. The Salisbury House will be on your right.

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Discover more about Salisbury House & Gardens

Salisbury House & Gardens offers a unique step back in time to the opulence of the 1920s. Built by Carl and Edith Weeks, the house was inspired by their travels in England and designed to resemble the King's House in Salisbury. The mansion incorporates authentic 16th-century English oak woodwork, flintwork, and rafters dating back to Shakespeare's time. The 42-room estate is home to the Weeks family's impressive collection of art, tapestries, and antique furnishings. The collection includes European paintings, Asian artifacts, and a rare first edition of Shakespeare's plays. The house itself is a work of art, featuring intricate architectural details and hidden passages. Beyond the house, visitors can explore the surrounding gardens, which offer a tranquil escape with various plants and flowers that change with the seasons. The grounds also host events and exhibitions, adding to the cultural experience. Salisbury House & Gardens is not just a museum; it's a living landmark that provides a glimpse into the past and a space for community engagement.

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