German Village Haus und Garten Tour

It's always interesting to see how people restore old homes. We are given the opportunity to take an intimate look at a half dozen or so homes in the German Village part of town. The German Village Haus und Garten Tour is held the last Sunday of every June. It is sponsored by the German Village Society (and of course, the gracious folks who open their homes to the public). Tickets can be purchased in advance. But keep in mind, walking tours are available practically year round. Just pop into the German Village Meeting Haus, 588 South Third Street, to catch a 12-minute video and pick up a guide to the historic district. The 233-acre neighborhood is the largest, privately-funded historic district in the country. It's a neat place to wander around.

Having just moved from a historical neighborhood that has annual home tours (I even hosted one time), I totally get how much time and effort going into organizing an event such as this, let alone the amount of time and effort the actual home owner has to invest. As for the home tour here in German Village, it was very nice. Having friends that used to live in the village, I've had the opportunity to visit several of the area houses during and after their transformation... I love the historical feel and the effort made to preserve the essence of the area!! Why only 3 stars??? Well, as I mentioned at the start of this, I've done this sort of thing before. I love the intent of the fund-raising activity, but I feel the price of $20 per person is ... a BIT much. Had it not been for Groupon offering $15 for TWO tickets, I would not have attended. So glad I did not shell out $40 to stand in line or well over an hour at each house. They're nice and all, but way to crowded. And to stand in line for that long to only see 2-3 rooms on average in most houses..... When I did this a few years ago, I totally loved the experience of meeting and talking with all the people who had actually paid money to come look at my house. It made all the work and effort worth it!! Here in German village, I met only one single owner... REALLY??? Anyway, it was a good onetime experience, as I will probably not attend this again.

Awesome! Very nice chairs for the meeting...Seriously, very comfy. There was wine and homemade treats to share at the Garden Club meeting. Everyone was so friendly and fun. It was a joy to meet people and learn about more about bees and how urban beekeepers are taking action with bees in their yards and in teaming up with Parks and Rec to place a beehive at Frank Fetch Park.