Terrace Hill Historic Site: Iowa's Victorian Masterpiece
Step back in time at Terrace Hill, Iowa's Governor's Residence, a stunning Victorian mansion and National Historic Landmark in Des Moines.
Terrace Hill, Iowa's Governor's Residence and a National Historic Landmark, is a stunning example of Victorian Second Empire architecture. Built in 1869, this Des Moines landmark offers guided tours through its lavishly furnished rooms and picturesque gardens, providing a glimpse into Iowa's rich history and the lives of its governors.
A brief summary to Terrace Hill Historic Site
- 2300 Grand Ave, Des Moines, Iowa, 50312, US
- +1515-281-7205
- Visit website
Local tips
- Tours are by reservation only and must be made at least 48 hours in advance by calling 515-281-7205.
- Terrace Hill is open for tours from March through December, but closed on State holidays.
- Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children ages 6-12, and free for children 5 and under. Only cash or check are accepted.
- Allow about one hour for the guided tour, which includes a video presentation and a walk through the mansion and gardens.
Getting There
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Driving
Terrace Hill is located at 2300 Grand Avenue in Des Moines. From I-80, take the exit for US-65 N towards Des Moines. Continue on US-65 N, which will merge into I-235 W. Take exit 8B for 42nd St N. Continue on 42nd St and turn left onto Grand Ave. After about 1 mile, you'll find Terrace Hill. The Terrace Hill parking lot is located at the corner of Forest Drive and Grand Avenue. Free on-street parking is also available on the streets surrounding Terrace Hill. Expect to pay around $1 per hour at city of Des Moines parking garages.
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Public Transport
The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) provides bus service throughout Des Moines. From downtown, several DART routes will get you close to Terrace Hill. Check the DART website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the nearest bus stop at 42nd St. and Grand Ave, it's a short walk (about 0.5 miles) west along Grand Ave to reach Terrace Hill Historic Site. A single ride on DART costs $1.
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Walking
Terrace Hill is located west of downtown Des Moines. From the intersection of Ingersoll Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, head west on Ingersoll Avenue. Turn left onto 28th Street, then turn right onto Grand Avenue. Continue on Grand Avenue until you reach Terrace Hill at 2300 Grand Avenue. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles.
Discover more about Terrace Hill Historic Site
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