📜 Historic house museum, event venue, and gardens in Des Moines, Iowa. 🔍 Modeled after King's House in Salisbury, England, featuring architectural elements dating back to the 14th century. # Why Go 🏰 Explore a 1920s estate with unique architectural elements and antique collections 🖼️ Discover rare treasures including a mummified rat and a rock collection built into walls 🌳 Enjoy six acres of native Iowa woodland and formal English gardens 🎭 Attend diverse events like teas, murder mysteries, outdoor Shakespeare, and holiday celebrations # Why Avoid ⚠️ Museum closes regularly for private events, especially during summer ♿️ Parts of the museum have steps, not fully wheelchair accessible; no strollers/car seats inside 🚫 No outside food, gum, or drinks (except lidded water) inside museum # 💡 Tips 📅 Check the website for availability before visiting 🎄 Estate is decorated for holidays throughout December ♿️ Give advance notice for accessibility accommodations # 💰 Cost Museum admission: Adults $25, Children (6-12) $5, (5 & Under) Free. Event prices vary. Gardens and grounds are free when open. # 🕒 Hours Museum hours vary, check website for details. Office: Monday - Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM. Museum closed annually from late December to early February for cleaning. Gardens open when museum is open. # 🅿️ Parking Main lot available. Accessible and limited non-reserved parking at North Circle for zero-step entry. # ♿ Accessibility Partially accessible with elevator to second floor, but some rooms have steps. Accessible restrooms on first floor. Tours involve standing. # 🐕 Pets Service animals only. # 📸 Photography Non-commercial and non-professional photography allowed (no flash indoors). Professional photography requires a rental.