Explore the top things to do in Grinnell, Iowa

Situated halfway between Des Moines and Iowa City, the Country Inn & Suites, Grinnell makes a comfortable starting point for your central Iowa adventures. Visiting for a college tour with your prospective student? We’re within three miles of renowned Grinnell College, so you can easily explore the bustling campus. For a taste of the arts, browse the exhibits at the Grinnell Arts Center or see a musical at the Newton Community Theatre. You’ll also want to visit Merchants’ National Bank, one of eight “jewel box” banks designed by Louis Sullivan, to admire its ornate stained glass windows. If you're looking for things to do outdoors, plan a hike at Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve or take to the fairways at Oakland Acres Golf Course.

Select what to see in a map

  • Culture
  • Family
  • Landmark
  • Nature

Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve

2.75 mi / 4.42 km from the hotel
This 450-acre nature preserve lends itself to heart-pumping activities like hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. If you prefer more leisurely pursuits, you can fish or bird-watch.

Oakland Acres Golf Course

4.82 mi / 7.75 km from the hotel
Practice your swing on the fairways of this popular 18-hole course. After your round, head to the on-site restaurant to refuel with tasty bites like chicken wings or pizza.

Rock Creek State Park

6.67 mi / 10.73 km from the hotel
Nature lovers find a welcoming retreat at this state park, which offers outdoor fun in every season, from horseback riding and snowmobiling to camping, picnicking, and kayaking.

Faulconer Gallery

2.64 mi / 4.25 km from the hotel
Part of the Bucksbaum Center for the Arts, this gallery features more than 6,000 pieces and frequently hosts educational classes.

Grinnell Arts Center

2.48 mi / 3.99 km from the hotel
Overseen by the Grinnell Area Arts Council, this center for arts and culture hosts community theater and events like Music in the Park, held each summer.

Grinnell College

2.85 mi / 4.59 km from the hotel
Take a tour of the campus, attend a special event like the Titular Head film festival, or cheer on the Pioneers football team at this private college, founded in 1846.

Grinnell Historical Museum

2.68 mi / 4.31 km from the hotel
Delve into the history of Grinnell through artifacts and exhibits at the Grinnell Historical Museum, housed inside a Victorian-style home. Don’t miss the collection of antique tools and kitchenware.

Grinnell Mutual Family Aquatic Center

2.86 mi / 4.61 km from the hotel
Open during the summer months, this water park features a large pool, a lazy river, slides, and water features for the whole family to enjoy.

Merchants’ National Bank

2.43 mi / 3.91 km from the hotel
Built in 1914 and designed to look like a jewel box, this ornate, historic bank is one of just eight of its kind.

Newton Community Theatre

15.86 mi / 25.52 km from the hotel
Discover a new favorite dramatic production, a classic musical, or an off-Broadway hit at this local theater.

Peace and Conflict Studies Committee

2.85 mi / 4.59 km from the hotel
Part of Grinnell College, this institute hosts a variety of special events that support its mission to promote international peacekeeping and conflict resolution. See a lecture, attend an art show, or listen to a musical performance.