Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the Stockman House?
The River City Society for Historic Preservation (RCSHP) owns the Stockman House and adjacent Architectural Interpretive Center. RCSHP is a local all volunteer 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Our operations are supported by donations, tour admissions, grants, memberships and income from our gift shop. A team of volunteers leads our tours and staffs our sales desk.
Can I help support your efforts to preserve the Stockman House?
You can support us by your donations: click here or by becoming a member: click here. Donations are tax-dedutible.
When do you offer tours of the Stockman House?
Tours are available year round and are offered on a first come, first served basis. Learn more about our tour schedule here.
Can I have my own tour group?
We love private group tours! Learn more about group tours here.
Small and large groups as well as student tours are available. Group tours must be scheduled in advance and we make every effort to meet your requested tour date and time.
Do I have to pay for the tours or any portion of a tour?
Yes, tours of the Stockman House require an admission fee. Individual adult admission for a regularly scheduled tour is $10, children (6-17) $5. Not suitable for children less that 6 years old.
Where do I check-in for my tour?
All tours begin at the Architectural Interpretive Center located next door to the Stockman House at 520 1st St NE, Mason City, IA 50401. Guests are invited to check-in at the Interpretive Center desk. We recommend you arrive early as tours start promptly on the hour.
How long are the tours?
The tours last about an hour and begin with a short video presentation at the Architectural Interpretive Center.
Are the tours handicapped accessible?
We make every effort to accommodate our guests. Guests should be comfortable standing, walking and climbing stars as our tours include indoor and outdoor spaces.
The Stockman House is wheelchair-accessible on the first floor only. A video of the second floor is available. Stairs are required to reach the second floor. If you have a special need, please contact us at 641-423-1923 prior to your visit.
Can I take photos or videos while on a tour?
Exterior photography for personal use is permitted. Interior photography is prohibited, as is the use of any video during tours.
Can infants and small children accompany the tour?
The tours are geared toward adults and not suitable for young children under age 6. Parents know the limits of their children best. However, should a child become unruly or disruptive, the Docent may ask that the child be removed from the tour. For additional questions or special requests, please call 641-423-1923.
Can strollers be taken on tour?
Strollers are not allowed on the tours. Tours include both indoor and outdoor spaces. Portions of the tour require standing and climbing stairs.
Can guests leave the tour if it is too aggressive (walking and standing)?
We ask that guests remain with their tour group at all times, but if you have an issue during the tour, please speak with your Docent immediately. It is not possible to sit or lean on the furniture or walls for support. We can provide two portable chairs (250 lb. limit) for guest use during the tour, if necessary.
What should I wear on the tour?
Tours are held in all weather conditions - rain or shine - and include include indoor and outdoor spaces. Walking shoes and comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Umbrellas are available for tour participants.
Are there lockers or a place for me to leave my items during the tour?
Unfortunately, we do not offer a secure location for your personal items. Guests are asked to leave purses, shopping bags, backpacks, etc. in your vehicle to help prevent damage to the buildings.
Are tours cancelled due to inclement weather?
No, tours run rain or shine.
In case it rains, do you provide umbrellas?
Yes, we have umbrellas available for tour guests.
Are bathrooms available during the tour?
No, however bathrooms are available in the Architectural Interpretive Center before or after the tour.
How large are the groups per tour?
To ensure that we deliver a rich experience to each guest, we limit tour groups to approximately 8 people per docent.
Is there a gift shop?
Our gift shop is open in conjunction with all tours and features unique Mason City memorabilia and brand gift merchandise, as well as Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired items available for purchase.
What forms of payment does the gift shop accept?
The gift shop accepts cash, personal checks, credit or debit cards.
Is there an ATM on site that I can use?
No, there’s not a public ATM available for use.
Are there items I won’t be allowed to bring in during a tour?
To protect and preserve the buildings, artifacts, designs and objects you will experience on the tour, food and drink, large purses, shopping bags and backpacks are prohibited on the tour. Guests are encouraged to leave personal items in their vehicle.
How do I get there?
Coming from the EAST: Take US18/IA122 to South Carolina Ave, turn North (R), go to State St, turn West (L), go to 1st Street NE, turn North (R).
Coming from the WEST: Take US18/IA122 to South Carolina Ave, turn North (L), go to State St, turn West (L), go to 1st Street NE, turn North (R).
Coming from the NORTH: Take US 65 (aka N Federal Ave) to US18/IA122 (aka 6th St SE) turn East (L) to South Carolina Ave, turn North (L), go to State St, turn West (L), go to 1st Street NE, turn North (R).
Coming from the SOUTH: Take US 65 (aka S Federal Ave) to US18/IA122 (aka 6th St SE) turn East (R) to South Carolina Ave, turn North (L), go to State St, turn West (L), go to 1st Street NE, turn North (R).
Is parking available?
Yes, free parking is available in a lot immediately south of the Architectural Interpretive Center where you’ll check-in for your tour. Buses must park on the street.
Can I make tour reservations for the Historic Park Inn (HPI)?
The Stockman House does not handle tour reservations for the Historic Park Inn Hotel, but you can call them at 641-423-0689 or check their website for more information: click here
Can I make hotel reservations to stay at the Historic Park Inn?
The Stockman House does not handle overnight room reservations for the Historic Park Inn, but you can call them at 641-422-0015 or check their website for more information: click here
How far away is the Historic Park Inn?
This Historic Park Inn Hotel and City National Bank is located six blocks west on State Street across from Central Park.
Are the homes in the nearby historic Rock Crest/Rock Glen neighborhood open to the public?
No, these homes are all privately owned and occupied. You are welcome to walk through the neighborhood and take exterior photos. Please remain on public sidewalks and streets. .
Are there restaurants in the immediate vicinity?
No, but there are number of good restaurants four to six blocks West on State St. We have a variety of menus from local restaurants that you can look through.
What other attractions are available in Mason City?
Please go to the Visit Mason City website for more information: click here
