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EXPLORE DES MOINES | | | | | | | 1915 University Ave
Des Moines,
IA
50314
515-244-3101 | | | | | Description: Campaniles (bell towers), a striking red tile roof and detailed Romanesque architecture mark the exterior of this local church, and the Basilica of St. John is just as stunning inside. The church has 46 stained glass windows, barrel-vaulted ceilings, the 14 Stations of the Cross lined by 12 candlesticks, and several frescoed paintings. The original parish dates back to 1905, and the structure is similar to St. Paul's Basilica in Rome. Guests are welcomed but are asked to observe the parish's daily mass schedule.
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| 12397 89th Ct NW
Polk City,
IA
50226
515-984-6473 | | | | | Description: Centered on an 866-acre lake, this park offers a bevy of diversions for both locals and tourists. The Big Creek State Park showcases swimming and fishing areas, as well as biking and boating opportunities. There are 26 miles of hiking trails and part of a 160-mile bike loop that connects several nature areas. The lake is due partly to a dam project designed to protect Polk City from flooding. This area now provides over 3,000 acres for recreational activities.
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| 7401 9th St SW
Des Moines,
IA
50315
515-323-8383 | | | | | Description: Considered one of the state's best zoos, this is a great place to catch a glimpse of natural wildlife. The Blank Park Zoo is home to over 800 species, including giraffes, sea lions and Himalayan snow leopards. The zoo boasts over 20 acres of park grounds, and features natural habitat sections like an Australian Walkabout and an African Boardwalk.
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| Des Moines Botanical Center909 E River Dr
Des Moines,
IA
50316
515-323-6290 | | | | | Description: A 150-foot geodesic dome, an herb garden and a bonsai enclosure considered one of the 10 best in the country all create the perfect viewing environment at the Des Moines Botanical Center. The center houses a variety of exotic plant life, including orchids and bromeliads. Visitors will even experience free-flying birds and a number of floral and succulent plant exhibits. The facility covers over 14 acres on the eastern banks of the Des Moines River.
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| 1501 Woodland Ave
Des Moines,
IA
50309-3283
515-244-0507 | | | | | Description: Step back into the Victorian era at the Hoyt Sherman Place. Originally built in 1877 as a manor home, a theater was added in 1923 and the structure is now a multi-purpose facility. Visitors can take a guided tour and see an impressive 17th century furnishings collection, as well as several 19th and 20th century art pieces. The tour of the house includes the entrance hall, parlor, library and dining room, as well as a Victorian bed and sitting room. The theater schedules a variety of performances that range from musical performances by groups like the Vienna Boys Choir to folk singers like Joan Baez.
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| 2001 Fuller Rd
West Des Moines,
IA
50265
515-225-1286 | | | | | Description: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this Italian gothic-designed house was built in 1850. The Jordan House is best known for owner James C. Jordan's active role in the "Underground Railroad" movement. Jordan, who was a farmer and eventually a state senator, used the family home to shelter fugitives on their way to freedom. On display in the house are various Underground exhibits as well as period pieces and furnishings from the Victorian era.
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| 4025 Tonawanda Dr
Des Moines,
IA
50312-2999
515-274-1777 | | | | | Description: Flint from the Cliffs of Dover, English and Indiana blackstone grace the exterior of this English Tudor castle commissioned by Carl and Edith Weeks. Built from 1923 to 1928, Salisbury House features 42 elaborate rooms and is designed to look like the King's Hall in Salisbury, England. The house centers on the castle's Great Hall and features exposed beams and woodwork. Guests are welcome to admire its many riches. On display are exquisite period pieces as well as a collection of unusual art relics that ranges from an ancient Cyprian pottery vase to Indian tapestries.
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| State Capitol Building of Iowa1005 E Grand Ave
Des Moines,
IA
50319
515-281-5591 | | | | | Description: Four corner domes encircle an impressive 23-karat gold-gilded center dome at the Iowa State Capitol. The building is home to the legislative branches of state government, as well as to the Supreme Court and the governor's offices. Guests can tour the site and admire its architectural detailing, which includes an open rotunda, marble stairway and several monuments and statues.
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| 2300 Grand Ave
Des Moines,
IA
50312
515-281-3604 | | | | | Description: This 21-room home is a prime example of second empire architecture. Terrace Hill is now home to Iowa's governor, but entrepreneur Benjamin F. Allen built it originally in 1869. The mansion features stained glass windows, crystal chandeliers and an elaborate grand staircase. It is a prime example of Victorian richness and opulence. The site also has manicured gardens and a gift shop.
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| 756 16th St
Des Moines,
IA
50314-1601
515-243-7063 | | | | | Description: Located on Sherman Hill and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this Des Moines landmark is impressive. The Wallace House dates back to 1882 and features Italianate Victorian architecture. The site now serves as a museum and displays various exhibits that showcase owner Henry Wallace's involvement in conservation and farming issues. The Wallace House is also available for hire for meetings.
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