Historical landmark, Tourist attraction
Terrace Hill Historic Site
Built in 1869 for Iowa's first millionaire, Benjamin Franklin Allen, this Second Empire mansion is now the Iowa Governor's Residence and a National Historic Landmark, open for guided tours of its restored rooms.
The story
Once threatened with demolition, the Victorian house was fully restored and today plays two roles: historic house museum on its lower floors and family home for Iowa's governors on the third. Guided tours cover the first two floors, passing through rooms with soaring ceilings, stained glass windows and period furnishings, and begin with a short video on the estate's history in the carriage house. Outside, well-kept grounds and gardens hold a variety of plants in individual beds, set within a historic neighbourhood. The residence also hosts seasonal gatherings, including a Victorian dinner, an annual Mother's Day Tea and an egg hunt with the governor, and can be rented for private events. Volunteers help keep its doors open to the public.
Good to know
TAGGG AI- ✦Tours must be reserved in advance, at least 48 hours ahead, so book before you go.
- ✦Tours last about an hour, starting with a short history video in the carriage house before covering the first two floors.
- ✦Bring questions: guides know the house well and will look up answers they don't know offhand.