Historic Downtown Washington Seek & Find

May is Historic Preservation Month!

In the heart of Washington, Iowa, is our historical downtown district, which is jam-packed with historical structures and architectural sites dating all the way back to the 1830s!

If you or your family are interested in learning about the architectural significance and history of downtown Washington, make sure to join Main Street Washington’s FREE Historic Downtown Washington Seek & Find event throughout the month of May! This event is for everyone of any age, so feel free to come on down and visit downtown Washington!

Aside from learning some fascinating facts about our historic downtown district, you’ll also be able to notice things that you’ve walked past dozens of times without recognizing. At the end of the month, three randomly selected winners will be drawn and will be awarded Chamber Bucks to allow you to shop local!*

Are you interested but not sure what to expect? It’s simple!

1. Pick up a seek & find list from Central Park Antiques, Washington Public Library, The Village, or the Main Street Washington Office (or download it with the link below).
2. Explore our historic downtown district (see map on back of handout)
3. Locate all twelve of the pictured ornamental features.
4. Log the location (building, business name, or general location) for each feature.

Once you’ve completed the discovery hunt, be sure to turn in your handout to the Main Street Washington office located at 215 S Iowa Ave, Washington, IA 52353 (you can drop in the mail slot if outside regular office hours)!

Be sure to look up, down, and all around!

Questions or Concerns? Contact Us.

Interested in learning more about the architectural and historical significance of downtown Washington? Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for our annual historic walking tour this October!

*Note: Chamber Bucks are only accepted at participating businesses. Check out the list of businesses that accept Chamber Bucks here.