The Jewel of the Prairie is Grinnell Iowa.
Known as the Jewel of the Prairie, Grinnell, Iowa is home to almost 10,000 residents. Almost 20% of those people attend the prestigious and recognized Liberal Arts College Grinnell College, named after Grinnell’s founder Josiah B. Grinnell. This small town is listed on Norman Crampton’s 100 Best Small Towns in America listing.
Centered on agriculture and the needs of the students of the college, this is a friendly town with a rich heritage. Grinnell was founded in 1854 and the city’s founder is the gentleman who was told, “Go west, young man, go west.” by Horace Greeley. The college is prestigious and has many famous alumni including, actor Gary Cooper, jazz musician Herbie Hancock, and U.S. congressman Tom Cole. The railroad runs directly through the college campus.
Located in Poweshiek County is between Iowa City and Des Moines, this area is well known for its fertile soil and abundant farms. Visiting the farmers market from May through October is something visitors and residents regularly do.
The city of Grinnell has plenty to do including:
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Abundant camping, hunting and fishing. There are many places to enjoy the outdoors here with many parks and several local lakes.
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The downtown area, which is filled with shops and places of interest including many buildings, that are on the Historic Register.
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There are tours of the area available by bus which take you through the many points of interest here. You’ll be greeted by the mayor, receive a goody bag of items, dine at a fine local eatery and see many interesting sights.
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Visit the “JewelBox” bank building which is a historic place and now home to the chamber of commerce
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Check out the local Carroll’s Pumpkin farm for a family filled day of fun and activities.
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See the old Grinnell model railroad
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Visit the Art Gallery at the college
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Visit our interesting museum which is a Victorian home filled with interesting era pieces from the 1900’s including Spaulding buggies.
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Take a tour to view and admire the prettiest painted homes in town
This is an historical city and the jewel of the prairie where you’ll find hometown charm and enough to do to keep you busy but still allow you to enjoy the relaxed pace that’s meant for a good life.