Polk County Historic Courthouse
500 Mulberry St, Des Moines, IA 50309
✦ Historic Beaux-Arts courthouse in the heart of downtown Des Moines
✦ Striking stone architecture and dramatic outdoor photo locations
✦ Ideal pairing with the Iowa Capitol or Surety Hotel
The Polk County Historic Courthouse in downtown Des Moines, designed in the Beaux-Arts style by Proudfoot and Bird in the early 1900s, is one of the city’s most distinctive architectural landmarks. With its marble columns, carved stone, and grand clock tower rising above Court Avenue, it’s a meaningful and historic place to exchange vows. Each courtroom has its own ornate details, and ceremonies are officiated by local judges in the same spaces where Des Moines’ history has unfolded for more than a century.
Photography is only permitted inside the courtrooms during the ceremony, so most portraits take place outdoors against the courthouse’s dramatic architecture and landscaped grounds. The wide stone staircase, ornate columns, and city backdrop make it a beautiful setting for elopement or courthouse wedding photos.
For couples wanting an indoor option, I love heading to the Iowa State Capitol or the Capitol Law Library afterward — both nearby and stunning for portraits. The courthouse is also just steps from the Surety Hotel, another of my favorite venues, where couples can get ready or host a cocktail reception to round out their downtown celebration.