Home Tour

Annual Historic Home Tour:
A neighborhood tradition for over 28 years. 

About the Tour

Every September, River Bend opens its doors for a self-guided walking tour of some of the most beautifully preserved homes in Des Moines. The tour showcases architectural gems dating back to the 1870s, giving visitors the chance to step inside homes and businesses across the district, see ongoing renovations and restorations, and appreciate the work of the architects who shaped our neighborhood. 

The Home Tour is the River Bend Neighborhood Association’s primary fundraiser, and all proceeds support our year-round community activities and improvements. 

The tour typically runs from 10 AM to 4 PM on a Saturday and Sunday in September, rain or shine. Tour booklets are available at the ticket booth on the day of the event, and a courtesy shuttle is available during the tour (capacity is limited). 

This year’s tour is scheduled for September 12 & 13, 2026. Purchase your ticket today!

Tickets

The numbers below include tickets for this event already in your cart. Clicking “Get Tickets” will allow you to edit any existing attendee information as well as change ticket quantities.
On Sale
Tour ticket
Discounted rate for pre-sale tickets, ends 9/5/2026. Regular price is $20.
$20.00 $15.00
Unlimited
Quantity: 0
Total: $0.00

Volunteer

The Home Tour is run entirely by volunteers. Help make this community event a success by signing up for a shift. Volunteers receive one free ticket for each shift worked. 

When volunteer signups open for the upcoming tour, we’ll post the link here and share it in our newsletter.

Our Sponsors 

We are grateful to our sponsors for making the Home Tour possible each year. If you or your business would like to sponsor the tour, we’d love to hear from you. 

Learn About Sponsorship Opportunities Contact Us About Sponsorship

2026 Information

Tour details:

  • Dates: Saturday, September 12th and Sunday, September 13th
  • Time: 10 AM – 4 PM on both days
  • Self-guided tours will take place rain or shine

Tickets and tour booklets:

  • $20* on the day of the event (available online or at 1535 7th Street)
  • $15* in advance (deadline for advance purchase: September 3rd)
  • *An automatic payment processing fee is added to all online ticket purchases
  • Route maps and tour booklets can be picked up from 10 AM – 4 PM on Saturday, September 12th and Sunday, September 13th during tour hours at the ticket booth (1535 7th Street). Early pickup is not available

Parking, transportation, and accessibility:

  • Park anywhere in the neighborhood and walk between host homes, or drive between the homes and park along the street
  • A limited-capacity courtesy shuttle service will be available during the tour
  • Many homes are historic and may have stairs or other features that limit accessibility. Contact the River Bend Neighborhood Association for specific questions or concerns

Etiquette and guidelines:

  • Host homes are private residences; respectful conduct is required at all times
  • Ask permission before taking photos inside the homes
  • Wear provided booties or remove shoes when entering homes
  • Use restrooms noted on the tour map, not in host homes
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times

Amenities and experience:

  • Complimentary water will be available along the tour route (limited supplies)
  • Some homes will be in varying states of restoration, showcasing progress year after year
  • Take your time, ask questions, and visit local businesses for a complete River Bend experience

Enjoy the tour! Discover the rich history and charm of the River Bend Neighborhood during your visit.