Tours & Events
Eat|Drink|Architecture: Drake Edition
A pub crawl and guided architecture tour of the Drake Neighborhood.
This event kick off at the University Library Cafe with your first round of food and drink. From there, you'll embark on a tour of the eclectic Drake neighborhood and campus with its architectural mix of new developments, modernist landmarks and distinctive religious styles. You'll wrap up the afternoon at Lucky Horse for a final food and drink stop. It's the fall event you won't want to miss!
Participants will have 2 separate starting times, so there will be no delays. Departure times will be at 10:00 am and 10:30 am. Please select your preferred tour time when you register.
Stops will feature samples of food and adult beverages as well as conversation with the tour volunteers. Along the tour route, you’ll have fun socializing while enjoying a guided walking tour of the architecture. Tickets are $35 and must be purchased in advance.
Eat.Drink.Architecture. is sponsored by the Iowa Architectural Foundation (IAF) and Full Court Press restaurants. Thanks to Jeff Bruning and FCP, 100% of the proceeds will help fund Iowa Architectural Foundation programming around the state, increasing the public's awareness of the value of architecture in building a better world.
Architecture on the Move: Special West Routes Edition
Don’t miss the grand finale of this year’s Architecture on the Move season! This special edition walking tour takes you to the west side of downtown Des Moines with three route options: Western Gateway, where bold modern architecture meets thoughtful urban planning; Auto Row, where the city’s automobile history from 1880–1930 comes to life; and Standard West, where stately historic buildings stand alongside striking new developments.
University of Iowa Campus Tour: Iconic Architecture & Expert Insights
Join us for an engaging day exploring the architectural highlights of the University of Iowa campus in Iowa City! This walking tour will showcase a remarkable blend of modern and historic architecture, guided by an expert with deep personal and professional knowledge of the campus and its development over time.
Architecture on the Move: Special North Route Edition
Join the Iowa Architectural Foundation for a special edition of Architecture on the Move featuring an exclusive opportunity to explore one of Des Moines’ most significant examples of mid-century modern architecture: the former American Republic Insurance Company headquarters, designed by renowned architect Gordon Bunshaft of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM).
Architecture on the Move
Reserve your spot for an architect-guided walking tour of downtown Des Moines and experience the city’s architecture up close. Includes East, West, and South route options.
Architecture on the Move
Reserve your spot for an architect-guided walking tour of downtown Des Moines and experience the city’s architecture up close. Explore historic and contemporary buildings while learning about the styles, details, and stories behind the structures that shape the downtown skyline.
Architecture on the Move
Reserve your spot for an architect-guided walking tour of downtown Des Moines and experience the city’s architecture up close.
Architecture on the Move
Reserve your spot for an architect-guided walking tour of downtown Des Moines and experience the city’s architecture up close. Explore historic and contemporary buildings while learning about the styles, details, and stories behind the structures that shape the downtown skyline.
Architecture on the Move
Reserve your spot for an architect-guided walking tour of downtown Des Moines and experience the city’s architecture up close.
Explore Architecture Up Close
IAF offers year-round opportunities to experience architecture firsthand.
From walking tours and tasting events to lectures and special programs, our events highlight Iowa’s built environment in engaging, accessible ways.
Visit this page regularly for upcoming dates, ticket information, and new program announcements.
What to expect:
Seasonal walking tours in downtown Des Moines
Signature annual events such as Eat. Drink. Architecture.
Educational lectures and design conversations
Regional day trips and special excursions
