Main Street Ottumwa invites the public to step inside some of downtown’s most unique and historic upper-story spaces during the annual Upstairs Downtown walking tour, taking place Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Additionally, there will be live singers, family friendly games, prizes, and food trucks in Ballingall Park.
This self-guided tour offers a rare opportunity to explore beautifully restored apartments, workspaces, and historically significant buildings not usually open to the public. Featured locations include the newly renovated spaces at 307 East Main and 315 East Main, historic 226 West Main, an apartment at 118 East Third, the award winning façade at 219 East Main Street, the upstairs loft space at 115 East Main, the ongoing updates at Ballingall Park and the Amtrak Depot at 210 West Main, and the City Hall renovations at 105 West Third. These spaces highlight the exciting momentum in downtown revitalization.
“The tour allows people to see the amazing transformation happening above street level in our downtown,” said Kris Patrick, Main Street Ottumwa Executive Director. “Each space tells a story of history, creativity, and community investment.” Test your eye for detail in our BINGO-style scavenger hunt. Hunt for distinctive architectural features and turn in your completed card for a chance to win a prize.
Tickets for the tour are $15 and available online at www.mainstreetottumwa.com or at Ballingall Park on the day of the event, where you can also pick up your free bingo game card
