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

Don’t miss the grand finale of this year’s Architecture on the Move season! This special edition walking tour takes you to the west side of downtown Des Moines with three route options: Western Gateway, where bold modern architecture meets thoughtful urban planning; Auto Row, where the city’s automobile history from 1880–1930 comes to life; and Standard West, where stately historic buildings stand alongside striking new developments. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just curious about the city’s stories, this finale is the perfect way to experience Des Moines from the sidewalk up.

Sign-in on Oct. 3 starts at 4:30 PM at Hotel Fort Des Moines. Tours take off promptly at 5:00 PM. Comfortable shoes and clothing are suggested.

* *OCTOBER 3RD ROUTE OPTIONS AND DEPARTURE**

Our October tours will depart from the Hotel Fort Des Moines lobby, 1000 Walnut St., at 5:00PM. Check-in will open at 4:30PM due to the earlier sunset. This date will offer the following route options:

• Western Gateway: This route explores the architecture around and the planning of the Western Gateway Park, which includes the Krause Gateway Center, Meredith Corp, Nationwide and the Temple Performing Arts.

• Auto Row: A tour covering the west side of downtown emphasizing the roles of the automobile industry in Iowa from 1880-1930.

• Standard 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 [email protected].

Host or Publisher Iowa Architectural Foundation (IAF)