“Grab your pitchforks & stand!”
In 1930, painter Grant Wood took a tour of a small Iowa town, and spotted the perfect house for a painting he’d had in mind. Armed with a sketch of the house he quickly made, he went home to Cedar Rapids and painted American Gothic. The house still stands to this day, and is visited by thousands of people each year.
Well worth the 10 minute drive off of IA 163. Have some fun with it and ham it up a bit. We got there right at closing time but the staff was more than helpful and willing to dress us up for our own recreation.
When you visit the American Gothic House, there's an on-site visitor center that provides various props, such as period clothing and even a pitchfork so you can have your photo taken in front of it.
The house and the visitor center was beautiful and such a wonderful and unexpected stop on our most recent trip to Southern Iowa. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and funny. I can't wait to visit again!
Visit the American Gothic House between May & July to grab a sweet treat from the Pitchfork Pie Stand, housed inside the home. Be sure to get there early! Pies this delicious go quickly. Read more about the Pitchfork Pie Stand: http://theworldneedsmorepie.com/pitchfork-pie-stand/
Totally worth the detour! The Gothic House was a wonderful experience and we had a great time. The employee there was phenomenal and inviting. I would definitely recommend this stop!
So glad we stopped!
Great stop if driving in the area.
This house is currently privately owned. Please check before taking photos and Do Not Enter unless you're invited.
Something to see - wish we would have been able to stop there when it was open. Not too far off the beaten path
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American Gothic House
Hours
- Sun, Mon: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
- Tue - Sat: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
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Parking
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Pets Allowed
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Restrooms
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Wifi
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Wheelchair Accessible
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Credit Cards Accepted
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Outdoor Seating
Parking, Dining
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