CURRENT HOURS: Tuesday-Saturday 9am-4pm (last tractor cart to farms leaves at 2:30)
Sometimes you just need to feel a little bit fancy! Indulge your inner Victorian with an elegant tea service in the historic Flynn Mansion. Hat and gloves are optional, but an interest in learning about Victorian manners is mandatory. Living History Farms interpreters wearing 1870s period dress will serve hot tea, tea sandwiches, scones, traditional cakes, and other sweets and share tea traditions. Chat with friends (or make new friends) at the tea tables, then explore the interiors of this elegant home built in 1870 by one of Des Moines’ first families.
Please note: You’ll meet your host inside the Kemin Cultivation Center, 11121 Hickman. From there, you will walk together to the mansion. In bad weather, your host may lead you up the road to the mansion by car; from the road to the front door, the walk is less than 100 yards. The paths from the Kemin Cultivation Center and from the road are not paved. Please wear comfortable walking shoes or boots, as well as appropriate layers for the weather.
Details:
• $65 per person ($59 for members).
• Program length: 2 hours.
• Teas seat 18 guests.
• No alcohol, please.
• Dates that do not meet a minimum of 12 guests may be rescheduled.
Menu changes with season and theme but includes:
• Three seasonal tea sandwiches
• Scones, sweet bread, pastry
• Cake, cookies, sweets
• Hot tea with cream or lemon
The Victorian Era was a great time for apple lovers. The humble staple became a sensation, as well as a nostalgic symbol of simpler pre-industrial times. Join us for a celebration of the apple’s role in Victorian life.
Victorians loved superstitions—and they loved to poke fun at them. Learn about Victorian science and superstitions with us, and explore the meaning of old folklore and tales.
As the days grow shorter and the afternoon sun slants in lower and lower, celebrate all things autumn with fall scents and flavors in the grand setting of this Italianate home.
Our image of “an old-fashioned Christmas” is largely driven by Victorian traditions. Spend a delightful winter afternoon immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of a holiday in the 1870s.
You and your favorite fan of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy are invited to a special tea centered on the beloved story by Louisa May Alcott. Ages 8 and up with an adult.
Our facilities are not food allergen or gluten-free. Please be aware that our food may contain or come into contact with common allergens, such as dairy, eggs, wheat, soybeans, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, or shellfish. Our meals are prepared and served family-style and we are unable to accommodate all food allergy concern
11121 HICKMAN, URBANDALE • 515-278-5286
— THANK YOU TO OUR 2026 PREMIER PARTNERS —
Official Modern Agricultural Equipment Partner
