Des Moines, Iowa

Terrace Hill

This opulent 1869 Victorian mansion, a National Historic Landmark and home of Iowa's governor, was built by Iowa's first millionaire, Benjamin F. Allen. Restored to the late 1800s period, it overlooks downtown Des Moines and is situated on eight acres with a recreated Victorian formal garden.

Basilica of St. John

Designated a basilica in 1989. Northern Italian/Lombardy Romanesque style, with gold-leaf coffered ceilings and 46 stained-glass windows, including a 15-foot Munich rose window. Ornate plaster and travertine marble interior.

Iowa State Fairgrounds

The Iowa State Fair, held each August, is Iowa's largest tourism event and the cornerstone event of more than 160 activities held year-round on these 400

Living History Farms Welcome Center

Blank Park Zoo

Beautifully-landscaped 22-acre zoological park featuring naturalistic exhibits with more than 800 animals from five continents, including lions, tigers, sea lions, snow leopards, giraffe. Train ride, camel ride, gift shop and cafe. Discovery Center includes Iowa'