Discover the Benefits of City Living
I-235 to Franklin Ave. & 42nd St. to Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy
Minutes from downtown Des Moines, the Drake neighborhood offers beautiful turn-of-the-century homes, some located on the National Historic Register - all in walking distance of coffee houses, locally owned restaurants, an art-house movie theater, grocery stores, and specialty shops. In the summer the neighborhood hosts a weekly farmers market with farm-fresh produce, great barbecue and live music.
Founded in 1979, the Drake Neighborhood Association is the second oldest and one of the largest neighborhood associations in Des Moines. We are proud of the part we have played in preserving the historic elements that make our neighborhood unique.
In this day of urban sprawl and long freeway commutes, many consider neighborliness an anachronism. But for members of the Drake Neighborhood Association, neighborliness - like the historic houses and commercial buildings we have lovingly maintained and restored - is a legacy worth adapting to modern life.
26th Street as seen from the steps of Old Main, viewed in the early 20th century
26th Street as seen from the steps of Old Main, viewed in the early 21st century
Take a Virtual Tour!
This virtual tour was developed in 2002 by Jennifer Irsfeld James.
Start the tour.