Question 1

When are tours offered of the Stockman House?

Accepted Answer

Tours are available year round and are offered on a first come, first served basis. Learn more about our tour schedule here.

Question 2

What does a tour cost?

Accepted Answer

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.    Payment is made at the Architectural Interpretive Center (AIC) prior to the tour. All tours begin at the AIC.

Question 3

Where do I check-in for my tour?

Accepted Answer

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 may purchase their admission at the Architectural Interpretive Center desk.    We recommend you arrive early as tours start promptly on the hour.

Question 4

How long are the tours?

Accepted Answer

The tours last about an hour and begin with a short video presentation at the Architectural Interpretive Center.

Question 5

How large are the groups per tour?

Accepted Answer

To ensure that we deliver a rich experience to each guest, we limit tour groups to approximately 8 people per docent.

Question 6

Can I have my own tour group?

Accepted Answer

We love private group tours!  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.     Learn more about group tours here.

Question 7

Are there items I won’t be allowed to bring in during a tour?

Accepted Answer

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.   Interior photography is not permitted during the tour. Exterior photography is encouraged.

Question 8

Are there lockers or a place for me to leave my items during the tour?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

Are bathrooms available during the tour?

Accepted Answer

No, however bathrooms are available in the Architectural Interpretive Center before or after the tour.

Question 10

Can I take photos or video during the tour?

Accepted Answer

Exterior photography and videos are encouraged.  However, interior photogrpahy and videos are not permitted.

Question 11

Are the tours handicapped accessible?

Accepted Answer

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 and stairs are required to reach the second floor. A video of the second floor is available. If you have a special need, please contact us at 641-423-1923 prior to your visit.

Question 12

Can guests leave the tour if it is too aggressive (walking and standing)?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 13

Can I take photos or videos while on a tour?

Accepted Answer

Exterior photography for personal use is permitted. Interior photography is prohibited, as is the use of any video during tours.

Question 14

Can infants and small children accompany the tour?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 15

Can strollers be taken on tour?

Accepted Answer

Strollers are not allowed on the tours.  Tours include both indoor and outdoor spaces.  Portions of the tour require standing and climbing stairs.

Question 16

What should I wear on the tour?

Accepted Answer

Tours are held in all weather conditions - rain or shine - and include indoor and outdoor spaces. Walking shoes and comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Umbrellas are available for tour participants.

Question 17

Are tours cancelled due to inclement weather?

Accepted Answer

No, tours run rain or shine.

Question 18

In case it rains, do you provide umbrellas?"

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have umbrellas available for tour guests.

Question 19

Is parking available?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 20

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

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).

Question 21

Is there a gift shop?

Accepted Answer

Yes. 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.

Question 22

What forms of payment does the gift shop accept?

Accepted Answer

The gift shop accepts cash, personal checks, credit or debit cards.

Question 23

Is there an ATM on site that I can use?

Accepted Answer

No, there’s not a public ATM available for use.

Question 24

Can I make tour reservations for the Historic Park Inn (HPI)?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 25

Can I make hotel reservations to stay at the Historic Park Inn?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 26

How far away is the Historic Park Inn?

Accepted Answer

The Historic Park Inn Hotel and City National Bank is located five blocks west on State Street across from Central Park.

Question 27

Are the homes in the nearby historic Rock Crest/Rock Glen neighborhood open to the public?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 28

Are there restaurants in the immediate vicinity?

Accepted Answer

No, but there are number of good restaurants four to six blocks West on State St.  Mason City offers a wide variety of restaurant options throughout the city.

Question 29

What other attractions are available in Mason City?

Accepted Answer

Please go to:  visitmasoncity.org for more information.

Question 30

Who owns the Stockman House?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 31

How can I support the preservation of the Stockman House?

Accepted Answer

You can support us by becoming a member or making a donation. Learn more here.