Jordan House Museum

Revisit an important era in America's history at the Jordan House in West Des Moines. This stately home, built in the 1850s by James C. Jordan, served as one of the main Iowa stops on the Underground Railroad. The property is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Parking and public transportation to Jordan House
Take Interstate Highway 35 south to the Mills Civic Parkway exit. Follow Mills Civic east to Fuller Road. Continue east on Fuller Road to Jordan House. Parking is available on site. Due to the home's secluded location, there are no local transit routes that stop within walking distance of the property.

Best times to go to Jordan House
Several special events are held at the house and on its grounds throughout the year. Time your visit to coincide with a holiday tour or a summer arts activity.

Admission to Jordan House
Expect to pay just a few dollars for children and adults, with toddlers admitted free. Tours are usually held twice each Friday, and twice on the first Sunday of the month.

Must see/do at Jordan House
The site contains an extensive display of artifacts from the home's association with the Underground Railroad. Learn about local railroad history, too, as Jordan was instrumental in bringing a line to the area and the formation of Valley Junction, which was later renamed West Des Moines. The home's Italianate Gothic style includes many ornate elements and several porches. The carefully restored Bennett School is adjacent to Jordan House. The building, constructed in the 1920s, is open with advance notice and is available to rent for special events.

Other places to visit near Jordan House
Enjoy the trails at Brown's Woods Park. Head over to the lake at Raccoon River Park. Living History Farms in nearby Urbandale offers a hands-on look at Iowa's agricultural past.

Insider tip for visitors to Jordan House
Family lore says that the ghost of one of Jordan's daughters haunts the house. The child died in the 1890s after she fell while sliding down the staircase banister.

Author's bio: Melanie Lageschulte is a freelance writer and editor. She is an Iowa native and has lived in Des Moines for 15 years.