Perhaps it’s due to the cooler spring weather, but we’ve recently found ourselves longing to sip some tea in a most elegant setting. Several places serve high tea in the Des Moines area, with varying degrees of appropriateness for children. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a memorable experience, afternoon tea aka high tea, can be a fun, unique outing with kids.
For ideas for other Des Moines area family fun, be sure to check out the dsm4kids Events Calendar or sign up to receive our Weekend Fun Guide.
Please note that many of these lovely tea services require reservations about a month in advance or are annual events.
What Ages Are Best?
We’ve noted if venues have age requirements, but you might be wondering if your kid is even ready for a high-tea experience? We’ve found age 5 is a great starting point, but we encourage parents to use their discretion when deciding if an activity is appropriate for their child or not.
Here’s our take on some of the best spots for afternoon tea with kids in the Des Moines area:
Fynn Victorian Teas at Living History Farms
Urbandale
Indulge your inner Victorian with an elegant tea service in the historic Flynn Mansion at Living History Farms. Wear your hat and gloves and share tea traditions with Living History Farms’ interpreters wearing 1870s Victorian period dress. Guests will enjoy tea sandwiches, scones, traditional cakes and sweets, all served with hot tea. Pour a cup and chat with friends at the tea table. Then explore the interiors of this elegant Italianate home built in 1870 by one of Des Moines’ first families.
Well-mannered children are most welcome (Recommended for ages 5 and up). Teas are hosted in the Winter and Spring. Tickets are $40 per person non-members and $30 per person for members.
The Lemon Tree Tea House & Restaurant
Newton
The Lemon Tree Tea House & Restaurant is located in a lovely turn of the century house located close to the heart of Downtown Newton. Featuring freshly baked desserts, pastries, and breads, along with as much locally sourced product as possible. You can reserve your spot for Afternoon Tea Service on Fridays or Saturdays, which includes tea for two, housemade lemon curd, clotted cream and jam, chicken salad on croissant, honey cream scone and shortbread.
No age restrictions listed. Afternoon Tea Service is $30 per person.
Miss Spenser’s Special Tea
New Virginia
For an authentic Traditional Afternoon Tea Experience, you can book a reservation at Miss Spenser’s of Longview Farms Bed & Breakfast Tea Room in New Virginia. Tea service at Miss Spenser’s Special Tea comes with an assortment of tea sandwiches, pastries, sweets and tea in a charming setting. Guests are pampered with attentive service while conversation flows leisurely over cups of gourmet tea and tasty tea fare. Visit their website to view dates for upcoming events and to make reservations.
All guests must be 7 years of age or older and are able to remain in their seats. Afternoon tea menus are pre fixe and are designed with the adult in mind. Afternoon Tea is $42.95 per person.
Tea at the Castle by Salisbury House
Des Moines
A beloved Salisbury House tradition, Tea at the Castle is held annually each May and December. While, each Tea at the Castle event is unique, guests will enjoy a proper English afternoon tea, savor traditional tea delicacies and treats while delighting in live music, history art, and tours of the grand estate. Events sell out fast, so be sure to keep an eye on the Salisbury House’s Event Calendar.
No age restrictions listed. $45.00 per ticket or $40.50 per ticket for Salisbury House Friendship-Level Members.
Tea at Terrace Hill
Des Moines
Sit, sip and surround yourself with Victorian splendor at Terrace Hill, Iowa Governor’s Residence and National Historic Landmark. Teas are held annually to celebrate Mother’s Day and the Holidays, when guests are welcomed to the first mansion to enjoy delicious tea sandwiches, tempting desserts and, of course, tea. Events are listed on Terrace Hill’s website calendar and sell out fast, so be sure to make reservations early.
No age restrictions listed. Price varies by event, but typically start at $40 per person.
Tea Thyme
Fort Dodge
This charming, long-running Fort Dodge tea spot serves lunch Monday through Saturday and a lovely afternoon tea, with all the traditional treats. They also host several themed teas throughout the year and private parties, including kids’ birthday parties. They also have an adjoining retail shop that carries tea products, gourmet coffee and candy.
No age restrictions listed. Guests order from a menu, prices vary.
Hearts & Homes Historic Tea at The Wallace Centers of Iowa
Des Moines
Hearts & Homes Historic Teas combine a delicious 3-course lunch with a program of readings from the historic pages of the women’s section of Wallaces’ Farmer magazine. Scheduled throughout the year, “Open Tea” dates accept reservations from the general public. Nearly all the fruits and vegetables used in the menu are grown at the Wallace Farm. Other ingredients are locally sourced whenever possible. Reservations can be made on their website.
No age restrictions listed. $30 per person.
Where do you like to go for tea time in the Des Moines area? Feel free to let us know your suggestions in the Comments below.
