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Daytime

Golden Light at Terrace Hill

A quiet morning walk and a late-afternoon golden hour view.

Best time: On 15 October sunrise is 07:26, golden light starts about 17:55 and sunset is 18:33 (local time), the sun setting toward the W.About 210 min

Timeline

  1. 11:33

    Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure

    Grab a coffee and sit with a local paper at Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure. The space is calm in the morning, perfect for planning your route.

  2. 12:33

    Terrace Hill

    Walk to Terrace Hill. Arrive early to explore the historic grounds and gardens before the afternoon crowds build up.

  3. 17:33

    Star Bar

    Head to Star Bar for a pre-sunset drink or early bite. The outdoor seating offers a clear view of the western sky as the light begins to turn golden.

  4. 18:33

    Star Bar

    Stay at Star Bar to watch the sun set toward the WSW. The golden light hits the historic architecture and the city skyline just before dusk.

  5. 19:18

    Star Bar

    Wind down with a nightcap at Star Bar as the city lights come on.

Local tip

Terrace Hill is a historic site and former home of Iowa's first millionaire. Check opening hours for the grounds as they may close earlier than the surrounding city areas. Star Bar is open late, making it a reliable spot for the sunset and after.

Check before you go

  • Terrace Hill hours vary by season and may close early.
  • Star Bar is open Mo-Fr 11:00-02:00; Sa 09:00-02:00; Su 09:00-24:00.

Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Des Moines (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).

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