Grinnell Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see, do, and eat in Grinnell, Iowa, including cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and local cuisine.


Introduction to Grinnell

Located in Central Iowa, Grinnell is a charming small town that boasts a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Home to Grinnell College, the town is a popular destination for students, academics, and culture lovers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of indoor and outdoor attractions, including museums, historical sites, hiking and biking trails, and local festivals.

List of Places to Visit in Grinnell

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Grinnell Historical Museum: Located in the heart of downtown Grinnell, the Grinnell Historical Museum showcases the town’s rich history through exhibits and artifacts.
  • Faulconer Gallery: Part of Grinnell College, Faulconer Gallery houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • Merchants National Bank Building: Designed by Louis Sullivan, this historic building features stunning architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Veterans Memorial Building: This iconic building serves as a gathering place for community events and celebrations.

Natural Attractions of Grinnell: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Rock Creek State Park: Nestled on the shores of Rock Creek Lake, this state park offers hiking trails, boat rentals, fishing, and camping.
  • Ahrens/Paschall Memorial Park: This park features a playground, picnic shelters, and sports fields and is a popular spot for family outings.
  • Grinnell College Prairie: This 365-acre prairie is home to a variety of plant and animal species and is a must-visit for nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Grinnell

  • Prairie Loop Trail: This 6.1-mile trail winds through Grinnell College’s prairie and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Poweshiek County Trail: This 19-mile trail connects Grinnell to the nearby town of Montezuma and offers scenic views of the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Grinnell: Activities and Tours

  • RAGBRAI: The Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa passes through Grinnell each year, bringing thousands of cyclists to town.
  • Friday Night Live: This summer concert series features live music, food, and drinks and is a popular event for locals and visitors alike.
  • Grinnell Farmers Market: Held each Thursday afternoon, this farmers market features fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Grinnell

Day Activity
1 Explore the Grinnell Historical Museum
2 Hike the Prairie Loop Trail
3 Visit Rock Creek State Park
4 Take a tour of Grinnell College
5 Attend a performance at the College’s Faulconer Gallery
6 Bike the Poweshiek County Trail
7 Attend the Grinnell Farmers Market

Food and Drink Scene of Grinnell

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maid-Rites: A local Iowa specialty, this loose-meat sandwich is a beloved favorite of Grinnell residents.
  • Pizza Ranch: This popular chain serves up delicious pizza, chicken, and sides.
  • The Prairie Canary: This upscale bistro offers farm-to-table cuisine and an extensive wine list.

Local Beverages

  • Peace Tree Brewing Company: This local brewery serves up a variety of craft beers and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
  • La Casa Grande: This Mexican restaurant offers a variety of margaritas and other cocktails.

Where to Stay in Grinnell: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Grinnell: This stylish boutique hotel is housed in a historic school building and features luxurious rooms and amenities.
  • Super 8 by Wyndham: This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location near downtown Grinnell.
  • Grinnell Heritage Farm: This charming bed and breakfast offers a peaceful retreat in a beautiful rural setting.

What to Buy in Grinnell: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade crafts from the Grinnell Farmers Market
  • Maid-Rite seasoning packets
  • Grinnell College merchandise

Local Culture and Customs of Grinnell

Grinnell is a college town, which means that the community is highly educated and values intellectual curiosity. Visitors should be prepared for lively discussions and debates on a variety of topics.

Best Time to Visit Grinnell

The best time to visit Grinnell is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and there are a variety of festivals and events happening in town.

Do’s and Don’ts of Grinnell

Do:

  • Visit the Grinnell Historical Museum to learn about the town’s rich history
  • Attend a performance at the Faulconer Gallery
  • Sample the local cuisine, including Maid-Rites and craft beer

Don’t:

  • Overlook the natural attractions, including Rock Creek State Park and the Grinnell College Prairie
  • Assume that Grinnell is just another small Midwestern town – it has a rich cultural scene and a vibrant community.

Safety and Health

Safety in Grinnell

Grinnell is a safe town with a low crime rate. Visitors should still take standard precautions, such as locking their car doors and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Grinnell

Grinnell has a small hospital and a variety of medical clinics. Visitors should bring any prescription medications they need with them, as it may be difficult to find them in town.

Getting to Grinnell: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Grinnell

The nearest airport to Grinnell is Des Moines International Airport, which is approximately 70 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Grinnell

The closest bus station to Grinnell is located in nearby Newton, approximately 15 miles away.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Grinnell or take a train to nearby Osceola and rent a car to get around.

How to Get Around in Grinnell

The best way to get around Grinnell is by car, as many of the attractions are spread out. There are also a variety of bike and hiking trails for those who prefer to explore on foot.

Where to Go Next from Grinnell: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Pella: This nearby town is famous for its Dutch heritage and charming downtown area.
  • Iowa City: Home to the University of Iowa, this vibrant city offers a variety of cultural attractions and outdoor activities.
  • Amana Colonies: This group of seven villages offers a glimpse into German culture and history.

Conclusion

Grinnell may be a small town, but it’s packed with cultural and natural attractions that make it a unique and memorable destination. Visitors can explore the town’s rich history, sample the local cuisine, and enjoy outdoor activities in a beautiful rural setting. Whether you’re a student, a culture lover, or a nature enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Grinnell.

Gates Tower, Grinnell College Gates Tower, Grinnell College Merchants' National Bank Merchants' National Bank