CURRENT HOURS: Programs by reservation only from November through April
Welcome to Living History Farms! Many sites across our 500 acres can serve as the ideal setting for your event, whether it’s business or pleasure. Basic information about our venues is below. To communicate with our staff in more detail, please fill out a Rental Interest Form, email us at rentals@lhf.org, or call (515)278-5286 ext. 155. We will be happy to meet with you and show you the many options at Living History Farms. Please note: Museum touring hours and programs will limit the availability of some sites.
CHURCH OF THE LANDCapacity: 130 seated, 152 total
Dressing room, piano, modern restrooms, sound system, paved parking (overflow parking at Visitor Center)
The nondenominational church in our 1876 town of Walnut Hill is available year-round for weddings, music recitals, memorials, and more. Built in 1984, the church is constructed in Prairie Gothic style (also known as Carpenter Gothic), with narrow points topping the windows, pews, and pulpit. The stained-glass window is based on a quilt designed to commemorate Pope John Paul II’s visit to Living History Farms. The church is fully air-conditioned and heated. Outlets and switches are concealed behind wood paneling to preserve the historic feel.
FLYNN BARNCapacity: 160 seated at tables, 280 chairs only or standing
Banquet tables, round tables, chairs, string lights and lanterns, small stage
The Flynn Barn was built on this site in 1871 and is listed on the National Historic Register. It is a rustic and charming venue for dinners, auctions, receptions, dances, and parties. Exposed mortise-and-tenon beams frame the open expanse above the white oak floor. A new roof installed in 2022 guarantees shelter from the rain. However, because the barn is not climate-controlled, it is available only May-October. Modern restrooms are a short walk away. Paved parking is available nearby at the Visitor Center.
VISITOR CENTER~ NOT AVAILABLE AFTER NOVEMBER 3, 2025 ~
Capacity: 156 seated at tables, 330 chairs only or standing
Banquet tables, round tables, chairs, kitchen, modern restrooms, wifi, television with HDMI capability, built-in screen (Celebration Room), paved parking (overflow parking on grass)
A thoroughly modern building that evokes the feel of a vintage barn, the Visitor Center is perfect for receptions, meetings, retreats, and parties year-round. The spacious Great Hall features exposed beams, skylights, brick, inlaid wood, and windows facing the 1876 town of Walnut Hill. French doors open to a patio for an indoor-outdoor event in nice weather. The adjoining Celebration Room is ideal for a buffet line or a staging area for caterers. It can also be used as a get-ready room or a breakout meeting room.
MURRAY CONFERENCE CENTERCapacity: 55 seated at tables, 115 theater-style, 118 standing
Banquet tables, chairs, kitchen, modern restroom, parking on dirt lot or grass, wifi
The Murray Conference Center is a unique, partially in-ground facility for classes, workshops, day retreats, showers, receptions, and reunions. The meeting room features a high domed ceiling and a wall of southern windows with a balcony overlooking a peaceful pond. The space also includes a lobby/registration area, restroom, and kitchen. Please note: The Murray Center is accessible from our gate on Douglas, west of the interstate, not from our Visitor Center entrance.
GAZEBO Capacity: 180 seated
Electricity, chairs
In 1876, the Walnut Hill gazebo might have been the spot for public debates or band concerts. Today, it’s the perfect spot for a wedding or other special event. The structure is fully open-air with built-in benches on all sides. Modern restrooms are close by, and the gazebo is wired for electricity.
FLYNN MANSION PORCH/LAWNCapacity: 180 seated
Electricity, chairs
This beautiful Italianate-style mansion was built on this site in 1870 by the real-life Flynn family, Irish immigrants who had made their fortune in railroad building. The building has been restored to original exterior colors and is on the National Historic Register. The sheltered porch and front lawn are both available for events. Modern restrooms are close by, electricity can be run from inside the home, and paved parking is available at the nearby Visitor Center. We’re sorry, the interior of the home is not available for rentals.
Paved parking, overflow parking on grass
Looking for a wide open space? Our front lawn offers nearly 7 acres of land easily accessible from Hickman Road. This space is perfect for an outdoor festival—plenty of room to set up tents or other temporary structures. Parking is available at the Visitor Center. Note: You will need to provide electricity and restrooms. Sound systems must conform to Urbandale city ordinances.
Living History Farms, 11121 Hickman Road, Urbandale, IA 50322, (515) 278-5286
— THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 PREMIER PARTNERS —
Ethel S. Abbott & Lienemann Foundations
Mary & Dale Andringa
BRAVO Greater Des Moines
Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust
Patty & Jim Cownie Charitable Trust
W.T. & Edna M. Dahl Trust
John Deere
Kemin Industries/Nelson Foundation/R.W. & Mary Nelson
Polk County
Todd & Connie Reuter
