A world-class college and the center of America's heartland combine to create a unique mixture of small town hospitality and dynamic cultural and intellectual life. In this one-of-a kind setting, visitors can enjoy the wide-reaching internationalism of the campus along with the opportunity to enjoy one of the "100 Best Small Towns in America."* Whether in town for a short overnight stay or a longer trip, all visitors should make a point to take to take in some of the experiences that make Grinnell's heritage unique. With enough time, you can enjoy our history, our many outdoor resources, the splendor of our architecture, the experience of mainstreet shopping, as well as the vibrant cultural events offered throughout the College and community.

A rich architectural heritage is one of Grinnell's best kept secrets. Currently, thirteen sites in Grinnell are listed on the National Registery of Historic Places. These include the beautifully preserved Louis Sullivan "Jewelbox" Bank, the impressive Chicago/RockIsland/Pacific Railroad Depot (which now houses the Depot Crossing Restaurant) and the Walter Burley Griffen "Ricker" House. The historic residential neighborhoods of Grinnell offer examples of distinctive architecture ranging from Richardsonian Romanesque to Neoclassical to Art Deco to Prairie, Greek Revival, Victorian, and New England Cottage.

Enjoy a walk through the historic downtown and early residential streets of Broad and Main between Sixth and Tenth Avenues. "Paths of Progress" in pdf format. (Free Adobe Acrobat Reader Download.)