Timeline
07:19
Samuel A. and Margaret Stevenson House
Arrive at the Samuel A. and Margaret Stevenson House. Settle in before the sun crests the horizon. The late 19th-century Stick and Eastlake architecture looks sharp in the pre-dawn stillness.
07:39
Samuel A. and Margaret Stevenson House
Watch the sunrise. The sun sets toward the WSW on this date, meaning the morning light will wash over the historic facade from the opposite direction, highlighting the intricate woodwork.
08:04
Walk 12 minutes to the original Drake Diner. It opens at 07:00, so it is ready for you. Order a Bulldog burger or an omelet. The menu is dominated by these local favorites.
08:39
Finish your meal. The diner is a staple of the area, offering a hearty start to the day.
Local tip
The Stevenson House is the best preserved example of Stick and Eastlake styles in the city. Arriving early helps you avoid crowds and get the best photos of the architecture in the soft morning light.
Check before you go
- Drake Diner hours are Mo-Sa 07:00-23:00 and Su 07:00-22:00. Ensure your visit falls within these times.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Des Moines (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).