Architecture on the Move: Guided Walking Tours of Downtown Des Moines

The Iowa Architectural Foundation is offering architect-led sidewalk tours of Downtown Des Moines. The tours provide an opportunity for local residents and visitors to appreciate the architectural treasures of Iowa’s capital city. Capital Square departure dates are May 10, June 14, July 12, August 9, and September 13. Final tour of the season will take place on October 4 (weather permitting and route TBD).

Sign-in starts at 5:00 PM in the atrium of Capital Square. Tours take off promptly at 5:30 PM. Comfortable shoes and clothing are suggested.

Choose your favorite tour from four different routes offered each tour night:

• North: Learn insight into Des Moines’ more contemporary architecture, including the Catholic Pastoral Center, AEG’s headquarters, Principal’s corporate campus, and the world-famous architects, such as Mies van der Rohe and Helmut Jahn, who have left their mark here.

• South: Walk through the historic Court Avenue and Warehouse District and learn about the history and future of this exciting entertainment and downtown living area. Includes World Food Prize Building, Saddlery Building, Rock Island Depot, Hawkeye Insurance and more.

• East: Enjoy a stroll through Des Moines’ revitalized East Village. Highlights include background on the Civic Center Historic District, City Beautiful Movement, the Riverwalk’s public buildings, Dilley Manufacturing (now Iowa Taproom) and new projects like the new mass timber building, 111 E Grand.

• West: This tour showcases some of Des Moines’ older, stately buildings such as the Temple for the Performing Arts and Clemens Building and Hotel Fort Des Moines, some of our most significant skyscrapers and new developments including EMC Highrise, Wells Fargo Financial, Nationwide and the Des Moines Central Library.

A limited number of tickets are available at the door, with cash or check accepted. All dates transferrable upon request.

Questions? Email director@iowaarchfoundation.org.