River Bend is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Des Moines, Iowa. Within this area, you’ll find a diverse mix of families living in some of the oldest homes in the city. Many of the houses in River Bend date back to the 1870s. Each year, the Neighborhood Association sponsors a tour of homes in the district.

The annual Historic Home Tour is River Bend Neighborhood Association’s largest fundraising event. It has helped fund projects such as the new neighborhood entrance signs, restoration of the Ruan House, maintenance of various empty and neglected lots and properties, and River Bend’s newest community building and support event, the Heart of Des Moines Farmers Market.

The tour is an opportunity to give the community a glimpse into some of the district’s homes, farms, and businesses. The tour highlights homes in varying stages of renovation and restoration, several designed by prominent architects. This year marks the 25th year of the tour. It will be held on Saturday, September 23rd, and Sunday, September 24th. Whether you’ve been on the tour many times or this will be your first time, we are excited to welcome you to our neighborhood and our Home Tour!

The self-guided walking tour runs from 10 AM – 4 PM on both Saturday, September 23rd, and Sunday, September 24th rain or shine. When you arrive, pick up your tour booklet from the ticket booth at 1535 7th Street (across from Moulton Elementary). Hope to see you there!