Doors to the Past 2026: 50th Anniversary Celebration
The beloved Sherman Hill Historic Home Tour returns September 26 & 27, 2026, inviting visitors to explore the neighborhood at a leisurely pace while discovering the history and architecture of approximately 15 historic homes, along with gardens, buildings, and other notable points of interest.
Homes on the tour are in various stages of restoration, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at both completed projects and works in progress, as homeowners and volunteers share the stories that shape Sherman Hill’s past and present.
About the Tour
Sherman Hill, one of Des Moines’ oldest organized neighborhoods, is listed on the National Register of Historic Districts and is home to approximately 300 structures, many dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The “Doors to the Past” walking tour has become a beloved Des Moines tradition, inviting visitors to explore a selection of about 15 historic homes—some fully restored, others in the process of rehabilitation—along with gardens and other points of interest. Guests are guided at a leisurely pace by homeowners and volunteers who share the rich history and distinctive architecture of each property, offering a rare glimpse into the neighborhood’s past and ongoing preservation.
About the Homes
A district rich in history, Sherman Hill has transformed dramatically since its beginnings in the early 1870s. A neighborhood restoration effort launched in the 1970s, leading to Sherman Hill’s official listing on the National Register of Historic Districts in 1982.
Today, the restoration continues as many buildings are still being brought back to their original grandeur. The neighborhood is home to more than 150 residences and apartment buildings, showcasing a variety of architectural styles, including Victorian, Queen Anne, Italianate, Classic, Stick, and Flemish.
Get Involved
We’re gearing up for the 50th anniversary of the Doors to the Past Walking Tour in September 2026 and are looking for homeowners and volunteers to help make it special. If you’d like to showcase your home or assist during the event, we’d love to hear from you.
Interested? Fill out our interest form to join us for this milestone year.
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