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BEST RATED DES MOINES, IA LANDMARKS

3 Best Landmarks in Des Moines, IA

Expert-recommended Top 3 Landmarks in Des Moines, Iowa. All of our landmarks actually face a rigorous 50-Point Inspection, which includes customer reviews, history, complaints, ratings, satisfaction, trust, cost and general excellence. You deserve only the best!

Iowa State Capitol - Des Moines, IA Landmarks
Iowa State Capitol - Des Moines, IA Landmarks
Iowa State Capitol - Des Moines, IA Landmarks
Best Landmarks in Des Moines IA - Iowa State Capitol video
10+ YEARS IN TBR
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IOWA STATE CAPITOL

(4.9 Score)
1007 East Grand Avenue,
Des Moines, IA 50319 Directions

Since 1871

Specialty:

✓ Collections ✓ Events ✓ Monuments ✓ Exhibitions ✓ Government Buildings ✓ Programs ✓ Guided Tours ✓ Observation Deck ✓ Historic Preservation ✓ Court ✓ Historical Building ✓ Field Trips

“Iowa State Capitol Building is a 23-karat golden dome towering above the town and is a favorite of sightseers, with four smaller domes flanking the central dome. The building was constructed between 1871 and 1886 and is the only five-domed capitol in the country. Iowa State Capitol Building houses the Iowa Senate, Iowa House of Representatives, the Office of the Governor, and the Offices of the Attorney General, Treasurer, Auditor, and Secretary of State. The Iowa State Capitol Building also includes a chamber for the Iowa Supreme Court, although court activities usually occur in the neighboring Iowa Supreme Court building. The building features an array of majesty, including various types and colors of marble, works of art, fixtures, and carvings in stone and wood.”

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Contact:

(515) 281-5591

Mon-Fri: 8am - 5pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: Closed

TBR® Inspection Report:

Salisbury House & Gardens - Des Moines, IA Landmarks
Salisbury House & Gardens - Des Moines, IA Landmarks
Salisbury House & Gardens - Des Moines, IA Landmarks
Best Landmarks in Des Moines IA - Salisbury House & Gardens video
9+ YEARS IN TBR
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SALISBURY HOUSE & GARDENS

(4.8 Score)
4025 Tonawanda Drive,
Des Moines, IA 50312 Directions

Since 1923

Specialty:

✓ Event Rentals ✓ Private Events ✓ Group Tour ✓ Shops ✓ Summer Camp ✓ Events ✓ Field Trips ✓ Architectural Buildings ✓ Stores ✓ Collections ✓ Education and Adult Programs ✓ Reservation ✓ Restoration

“Salisbury House & Gardens is a 42-room architectural wonder built between 1923 and 1928 by cosmetics pioneer Carl Weeks. The house is modeled after the King's House in Salisbury, England, and is primarily a historic house museum. The Salisbury House Foundation owns and operates the house, which is open to the public for tours, private rentals, and public events. The historic site contains authentic 16th-century English oak woodwork, English flint work, and rafters that date back to the time of Shakespeare. The site aims to preserve, protect, and share the legacy, culture, and collections of Salisbury House. The house is a beautiful estate, and its diverse collections of literature, art, and worldly treasures are free to the public for tours. Salisbury House & Gardens also offers guided tours.”

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Price:

General Admission (Ages 13+) $20
Youth (Ages 6 - 12) $15
Students $5
After Hour Fee $50

Contact:

(515) 274-1777

Wed-Sun: 12pm - 5pm
Mon & Tue: Closed

TBR® Inspection Report:

Terrace Hill - Des Moines, IA Landmarks
Terrace Hill - Des Moines, IA Landmarks
Terrace Hill - Des Moines, IA Landmarks
Best Landmarks in Des Moines IA - Terrace Hill video
9+ YEARS IN TBR
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TERRACE HILL

(4.8 Score)
2300 Grand Avenue,
Des Moines, IA 50312 Directions

Since 1869

Specialty:

✓ Cultural Activities ✓ School and Education Programs ✓ Preservation and Restoration ✓ Events ✓ Group Tour ✓ Event Rentals ✓ Library ✓ Architectural Buildings ✓ House & Community Outreach

“Terrace Hill was built as a private home in 1869 in the developing, fast-growing community of Des Moines. The building is also known as Hubbell Mansion, Benjamin F. Allen House, or the Iowa Governor's Mansion and is the official residence of the governor of Iowa. The 18,000-square-foot building serves the dual mission of serving as the official governor's residence. The building's steeply pitched open verandas, mansard roof, long and narrow, frequently paired windows, and bracketed eaves give this house an irreplaceable design. The guided tours of the first two floors and historic gardens take guests back to the Victorian lifestyle of the cultured 1880s. The journeys last about an hour and start at the Carriage House, which once included horse stalls and carriages and has been renovated into a visitor center. Free admission for children under age of 5.”

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Price:

Admission:
Adults: $5
Children (6-12): $2

Contact:

(515) 281-7205

Mon-Fri: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Sat & Sun: Closed

TBR® Inspection Report:

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IOWA STATE CAPITOL REVIEWS

During my visit to Des Moines, I had the opportunity to explore the Iowa State Capitol, and it was an experience worth cherishing. If you’re ever in Iowa, this is a must-visit landmark, not only for its historical and political significance but also for its breathtaking architecture and well-preserved interiors. The guided tour provided a deeper understanding of the building’s history, its architectural features, and the role it plays in the governance of the state. The tour was conducted by knowledgeable guides who explained the significance of each section of the Capitol in an engaging and informative manner. From the grand dome adorned with gold leaf to the stunning interior chambers, every detail reflected the rich heritage of Iowa. One of the highlights was visiting the law library, which boasts an impressive collection of books and beautifully crafted spiral staircases, making it a photographer’s delight. The House and Senate chambers, with their intricate designs, also added to the overall experience. The grounds surrounding the Capitol are equally impressive, featuring well-maintained gardens, monuments, and statues that add to the charm of the place. The panoramic view of downtown Des Moines from the Capitol steps is another reason why this visit is special. Overall, the Iowa State Capitol is a fantastic place to visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or governance. Whether you choose a guided tour or explore at your own pace, you’re bound to be impressed. I truly enjoyed my visit and would highly recommend it to anyone traveling to Des Moines.

One of the first things that impressed us was how easy it was to find a FREE parking space close to the capitol. That just doesn't happen back in Texas where we live. After going through a metal detector people are able to wander around on their own, but we opted for the free very thorough 90 minutes tour. We climbed the stairs all the way up to the Whispering Gallery. It's a fabulous building.

Very beautiful state capitol building and the state law library inside is also stunning. The tour is very informative and it lasts about 1.5 hrs. The tour will also take people up to the dome.

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SALISBURY HOUSE & GARDENS REVIEWS

This place is so beautiful and has such an interesting history in the heart of Des Moines. Getting a guided tour is well worth it. We've been here a handful of times and David is the best tour guide we've ever had. He is so immensely knowledgeable and passionate. There are many events, but you have to act fast if you want tickets. We bring anyone who visits us in Des Moines to tour the Salisbury, because it's just such an amazing European castle feel in the middle of the city.

As a wedding photographer, Salisbury House has been on my list of dream venues to photograph in Iowa. I was so excited to book a wedding here and the experience was amazing! Many newer wedding venues all look very similar. You simply can't beat the rich character and organic flow that Salisbury House brings to a wedding day. There's so many beautiful locations for photos. The staff was all so helpful throughout the entire wedding day. I hope to be back many times in the future.

Beautiful architecture fills every inch of the house. I had a great time on the guided tour and learned a lot about the art displayed throughout the home. Such a cool place to visit.

TERRACE HILL REVIEWS

Our tour guide Arnie did a very good job. It is a beautiful home that Iowa is lucky to have as its governor mansion. Reservations are a must. Great value for the money.

The house was beautiful and Greg did an amazing job with the tour. Definitely a must see in Des Moines!

This place is a must see if in Des Moines or just in Iowa. This is the Governor Mansion. Very beautiful.

TBR® Inspection Score Report

IOWA STATE CAPITOL Total Inspection Points: 118/120
Business Hours: 9
Complete Info: 9
Acknowledgments: 10
Business Images: 10
Contact Info: 10
Exact Services: 10
Legitimate Ratings: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Reviews Accuracy of : 10
Reviews Study: 10
Video: 10
Website Source: 10

TBR® Inspection Score Report

SALISBURY HOUSE & GARDENS Total Inspection Points: 116/120
Business Hours: 9
Current Evaluation: 9
Reviews Accuracy of : 9
Reviews Study: 9
Business Images: 10
Complete Info: 10
Contact Info: 10
Exact Services: 10
Legitimate Ratings: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Pricing: 10
Website Source: 10

TBR® Inspection Score Report

TERRACE HILL Total Inspection Points: 115/120
Reviews Accuracy of : 8
Acknowledgments: 9
Business Hours: 9
Reviews Study: 9
Business Images: 10
Complete Info: 10
Contact Info: 10
Exact Services: 10
Legitimate Ratings: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Pricing: 10
Website Source: 10