Historic tours of Terrace Hill are about an hour long. Guests begin with a short introductory video in the Carriage House and then proceed to the Residence. Weather permitting, the gardens are also included in the tour.
All visitors at Terrace Hill must be with a tour guide; no self-guided tours are permitted. Reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance of your intended tour time. To make a reservation, please call 515-281-7205.
Terrace Hill is open for tours March through December, and is closed on State holidays.
Guided Tours are given by reservation only. Guided tours take place Tuesday-Saturday at the following times: 10:30 am and 12:00 pm
$5 for Adults (ages 13+), $2 for Children (ages 6-12), and FREE for Children (ages 5 and under).
Terrace Hill can only accept cash or check.
The Terrace Hill parking lot is located on the corner of Forest Drive and Grand Avenue. Free on-street parking is also available on the streets surrounding Terrace Hill.
The public entrance point is at the pedestrian gate located near the flag pavilion on Forest Drive. About 10 minutes before a tour, a trooper is stationed at this entrance point to admit guests. If a trooper is not there at the time of your arrival, an intercom button is on the gate door to connect guests with a trooper. Late admittance is not permitted.
Terrace Hill is an accessible facility. If you require the use of the ramp entrance to the Residence, inform the Terrace Hill staff before your visit.
Terrace Hill is a great educational opportunity for children and educators. Admission for students and teachers with a school group is free. For additional adult chaperones, it is $5 per guest and we only accept cash or check. To schedule an educational/school tour, please call 515-281-7205.
The Terrace Hill gift shop is open during touring hours and by special appointment.
Take a 3D Tour
In 2021, AEA Learning Online reached out to the Terrace Hill Partnership to create a 3D tour as part of an online Iowa historical sites collection for Iowa students. What started out as a resource for Iowa's youth, blossomed into an opportunity for all Iowans and friends of Iowa!
Welcome from the First Family
We would be delighted to have you visit the Governor's Residence.
Our family is honored to live in Terrace Hill, and we gladly take on the responsibility to maintain and enhance this incredible landmark for future generations of Iowa to enjoy.
We're proud to share this lovely home with you!
Best Wishes,
Governor Kim Reynolds and First Gentleman Kevin Reynolds
Tour Schedules
Call to Schedule Your Tour
Explore the history of Terrace Hill with a tour. Your must make your tour reservation at least 48 hours before your desired tour time. Call 515-281-7205 to schedule.
