Railway Express Mural in Grinnell

Visiting Grinnell

One of the great aspects to the Grinnell experience is the prairie location Grinnell College calls home.

Our town has repeatedly been named as one of the best and coolest college towns in America — alongside places like Berkeley, Boulder, and Cambridge. Grinnell combines the artful, intellectual buzz of a college town with the genuine warmth and friendliness of an Iowa small town. And we love it.

What is there to enjoy here? Grab a bike or simply walk into town to enjoy things like

  • Movies at the Strand
  • Coffee at Saints Rest
  • Lunch, dinner, or just a drink at downtown Grinnell restaurants.
  • Shopping at many of the locally-owned businesses, including craft, grocery, book, bike, and clothing stores
  • Grinnell's many bike trails, parks, and sports venues

Within an easy bike ride, you’ll find a state park as well as a nature preserve (a favorite spot for the cross-country runners).

TripAdvisor calls Grinnell “a great city with a decidedly metropolitan feel,” with countless events and festivals throughout the year.

The Grinnell Chamber of Commerce has put together a digital version of its visitors' guide. Explore the great places to eat, drink, experience art, and discover history and architecture.