Campaniles (bell towers), a striking red tile roof and detailed Romanesque architecture mark the exterior of this local church, and the Basilica of St. John is just as stunning inside. The church has 46 stained glass windows, barrel-vaulted ceilings, the 14 Stations of the Cross lined by 12 candlesticks, and several frescoed paintings. The original parish dates back to 1905, and the structure is similar to St. Paul's Basilica in Rome. Guests are welcomed but are asked to observe the parish's daily mass schedule.

Step back into the Victorian era at the Hoyt Sherman Place. Originally built in 1877 as a manor home, a theater was added in 1923 and the structure is now a multi-purpose facility. Visitors can take a guided tour and see an impressive 17th century furnishings collection, as well as several 19th and 20th century art pieces. The tour of the house includes the entrance hall, parlor, library and dining room, as well as a Victorian bed and sitting room. The theater schedules a variety of performances that range from musical performances by groups like the Vienna Boys Choir to folk singers like Joan Baez.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this Italian gothic-designed house was built in 1850. The Jordan House is best known for owner James C. Jordan's active role in the "Underground Railroad" movement. Jordan, who was a farmer and eventually a state senator, used the family home to shelter fugitives on their way to freedom. On display in the house are various Underground exhibits as well as period pieces and furnishings from the Victorian era.

Flint from the Cliffs of Dover, English and Indiana blackstone grace the exterior of this English Tudor castle commissioned by Carl and Edith Weeks. Built from 1923 to 1928, Salisbury House features 42 elaborate rooms and is designed to look like the King's Hall in Salisbury, England. The house centers on the castle's Great Hall and features exposed beams and woodwork. Guests are welcome to admire its many riches. On display are exquisite period pieces as well as a collection of unusual art relics that ranges from an ancient Cyprian pottery vase to Indian tapestries.

Four corner domes encircle an impressive 23-karat gold-gilded center dome at the Iowa State Capitol. The building is home to the legislative branches of state government, as well as to the Supreme Court and the governor's offices. Guests can tour the site and admire its architectural detailing, which includes an open rotunda, marble stairway and several monuments and statues.