Take a whimsical journey through Iowa’s architectural wonders and explore 15 timeless homes that have stood the test of time. Each home boasts a unique story, brimming with history and unique quirks.
From enchanting farmhouses to stately manors, these gems offer a delightful peek into the past, where every creaky floorboard and vintage doorknob whispers secrets of yesteryears.
So, grab your imaginary time-traveling goggles, and let’s embark on a tour of Iowa’s most charming centuries-old homes that still shine with the brilliance of a bygone era.
1. The Seed Savers Exchange, Decorah
Who says history only lives in books and museums? In Decorah, the Seed Savers Exchange proves that the past can thrive in living color.
This vibrant haven of heirloom gardens and rare plants celebrates generations of agricultural wisdom. Rustic barns and scenic trails set the stage for a deep dive into Iowa’s farming roots, where every seed carries a story of resilience, culture, and care.
2. Salisbury House, Des Moines
When in Des Moines, a visit to the Salisbury House is like stepping into a fairytale. This English-inspired manor is a real-life Hogwarts, complete with turrets and treasures. The house itself is a masterpiece, filled with rare books and artifacts—think of it as Iowa’s own Forbidden Forest of history.
The gardens are a sight to behold, too, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Whether you fancy yourself a wizard or a history buff, Salisbury House has a magical allure that will surely enchant you.
3. The Lewis & Clark State Park, Onawa
Where can you find a place that blends scenic serenity with a spirit of adventure? In Onawa, the Lewis & Clark State Park does just that.
This isn’t just a peaceful retreat – it’s a portal to the past. The star attraction, a full-size replica of the Lewis & Clark keelboat, invites visitors to imagine the grit and grandeur of their legendary expedition.
Surrounded by nature’s calm, the park weaves history into every trail and tree. Whether you’re here for the fresh air or the fascinating stories, it’s a destination that delights both heart and mind.
4. Terrace Hill, Des Moines
Terrace Hill, the crown jewel of Des Moines, is a Victorian wonderland that serves as the governor’s residence. Think a house so grand, it might as well have a royal family inside! With its majestic tower and opulent interiors, it’s a time capsule of elegance and political history.
The sweeping views from the top are simply presidential. As you explore, stay on the lookout for secret passageways and ghostly tales that add a hint of mystery to this stately abode.
5. The Amana Colonies, Amana
Travel to the Amana Colonies, and it’s like you’ve stumbled into a charming German village. Known for their communal lifestyle, these homes are all about simplicity and craftsmanship.
Think half-timbered houses and handwoven textiles – it’s Pinterest-worthy, with a dash of old-world charm. Here, tradition and community take center stage, with each house telling a tale of resilience and togetherness.
It’s a place where time seems to stand still, and the air is filled with the intoxicating aroma of history and fresh-baked bread.
6. Villages of Van Buren, Van Buren County
In Van Buren County, the Villages of Van Buren offer a quaint escape into the past. Each village is like a page from a storybook, with charming homes nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery. Picture idyllic cottages, each with its own unique character and history.
The sense of community here is palpable, like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting. Whether it’s a rustic farmhouse or a quaint cottage, each home in Van Buren is a slice of history, with a welcoming embrace that feels like a warm hug from the past.
7. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, West Branch
If you’re craving a glimpse into Iowa’s presidential past, the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in West Branch delivers it with charm and depth. Far more than just a home, this site feels like a quiet celebration of legacy.
Wander through historic buildings and peaceful gardens, and you’ll sense the spirit of a simpler time woven into every detail. It’s a place where rustic architecture meets heartfelt history, offering insight into the early life of Iowa’s only president.
8. The Wapello County Courthouse, Ottumwa
Ottumwa’s Wapello County Courthouse isn’t your average courthouse – it’s an architectural masterpiece! With its ornate design and imposing façade, it stands as a beacon of justice and history.
The interiors are just as impressive, with intricate woodwork and stained glass that captivate the eye. It’s a place where law and history intertwine in a dance of beauty and power.
9. The Mamie Doud Eisenhower Birthplace, Boone
Boone is home to the Mamie Doud Eisenhower Birthplace, a cozy abode with presidential ties. It’s a slice of American history, served with a side of vintage charm.
This quaint house with a garden seems to whisper secrets of the past. The rooms are filled with artifacts that offer a glimpse into the life of this First Lady. It’s a place where history feels intimate and personal, like flipping through a family album filled with tales of politics, love, and legacy.
10. The Pella Historical Village, Pella
Why travel across the ocean when a Dutch-inspired wonder awaits in Pella, Iowa? The Pella Historical Village offers a charming escape that feels like stepping into a European postcard.
Thanks to its iconic windmills, vibrant tulip gardens, and storybook architecture, the village brings Dutch heritage to life in the heart of the Midwest.
Every building whispers tales of cultural pride and community tradition, creating a colorful, immersive experience.
11. Brucemore Mansion, Cedar Rapids
Nestled in Cedar Rapids, Brucemore Mansion is not just a home – it’s a living legend. Imagine the grandeur of Downton Abbey, but right in the heart of Iowa! This estate is all about opulence and charm. Picture this: a sprawling 26-acre garden, with a mansion that feels more like an art museum.
Each room tells a story, with vintage furnishings and lavish decor that transport you straight to the Jazz Age. It’s where history meets high society, and every corner whispers tales of lavish parties and elegant soirées.
12. The Frank Lloyd Wright Stockman House, Mason City
Blurring the line between art and architecture, the Frank Lloyd Wright Stockman House in Mason City stands as a modernist masterpiece that still feels ahead of its time.
Built with Wright’s signature vision, it’s more than a home – it’s a statement. Sleek lines, organic materials, and an effortless flow with nature make it feel like a serene sculpture you can live in.
13. Montauk Historic Site, Clermont
Perched in Clermont, the Montauk Historic Site is a stately mansion that whispers tales of grandeur. One would say it’s a house with the soul of a castle, where elegance reigns supreme.
Surrounded by rolling hills and trees, it feels like a scene from a historical novel. The interiors boast vintage decor and a sense of timeless elegance.
14. The Laura Ingalls Wilder Park & Museum, Burr Oak
Lovingly preserved and full of frontier flair, the Laura Ingalls Wilder Park & Museum in Burr Oak captures the heart of pioneer life. It’s more than a nod to “Little House on the Prairie” – it’s an immersive step into a world shaped by grit, hope, and simple joys.
The historic buildings echo stories of perseverance, each one adding texture to Laura’s legacy. From weathered wood to prairie tales, the entire site feels like a nostalgic adventure wrapped in rustic charm.
15. The Old Capitol Building, Iowa City
A landmark of both intellect and influence, the Old Capitol Building in Iowa City proudly anchors the state’s historical and academic legacy.
Crowned with a golden dome and framed by stately architecture, it’s a striking reminder of Iowa’s roots in governance and higher learning.
Its grand halls echo with debates, decisions, and lessons from generations past. It’s where the story of Iowa’s political and educational growth unfolds, room by room.