When is Family Weekend?
September 27-29, 2013

Is there a cost to attend Family Weekend?
Family Weekend is a complimentary event for Grinnell families. We prefer registration to better accommodate our campus guests. There is no charge associated with Family Weekend attendance.

How do families register?
Online registration will be available starting July 1, 2013. Families will also receive a registration packet in the mail. The packet contains registration forms and information about the schedule of events. If you have misplaced your registration information, contact the Division of Student Affairs at (641) 269-3700.

Can I come if I didn't pre-register?
Yes, although families are strongly encouraged to register in advance. Some events have limited capacities and fill up quickly, and we cannot guarantee the availability of certain events if you have not registered in advance.

What is there to do during Family Weekend?
Family Weekend includes many different events. You can participate in some or all — it's up to you. Past family weekend activities and programs have included:

  • Campus tours, featuring the new and renovated buildings on campus.
  • Musical performances by Grinnell student groups.
  • Student research poster sessions, lectures, and workshops.
  • Evening entertainment each night.
  • Interdenominational worship service on Sunday morning
  • A Sunday Jazz Brunch

Will I be able to use the pool, gym, or other athletic facilities?
The Bear Recreation and Athletic Center (BRAC) offers many facilities open to families including recreational gymnasia, a running track, a state-of-the art fitness center, and courts for basketball, racquetball and tennis. Athletic equipment, towels and general information can be obtained at the equipment room in the lower level of the BRAC. The BRAC also offers daily swimming hours in the Natatorium pool.

I have some particular needs related to accessibility. What should I do?
Grinnell College is committed to making its campus accessible to persons with disabilities. However, not all areas of campus are fully accessible. Individuals who have special needs should contact the Division of Student Affairs at (641) 269-3700.

Will the Grinnell Bookstore be open?
The Grinnell College Bookstore will be open extended hours during Family Weekend. Stop by and enter to win a gift card.

Where can I eat on campus?
In addition to numerous restaurants in the Grinnell community, Grinnell College is home to several campus eateries:

  • Marketplace - Families who wish to dine at the Joe Rosenfield '25 Center Marketplace may purchase meals at the door. 
  • Spencer Grill - Located in the Joe Rosenfield '25 Center, The Spencer Grill is the place to grab a quick bite to eat or get a cup of coffee.
  • Bob's Underground Cafe - Located in Main Hall, Bob's is a student-run coffeehouse featuring coffee, tea, and other beverages and light fare.
  • Lyle's Campus Pub - Located in the basement of the Joe Rosenfield '25 Center, Lyle's Pub is a student-run bar offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks along with standard pub fare.

How do families get to Grinnell?
Families travel to Grinnell by car, train, bus and airplane to participate in Family Weekend. We are an hour east of Des Moines on U.S. I-80.

When should families arrive and depart?
While this is a family decision, you may want to note class visitations and meetings with faculty are available on Friday only. A tentative schedule of events will be posted online July 1, 2013. 

Is parking available on campus?
Campus parking permits are not required during Family Weekend, and you may park in any of the designated areas on the main campus. All handicapped parking placards will be honored by the Grinnell College Campus Security. Please be aware that the City of Grinnell has designated shifting parking areas in the campus vicinity.

Where should families stay?
Grinnell College recommends the following area accommodations. Make your reservation as early as possible as Grinnell accommodations fill up quickly.

What dining options are available in town?
The Grinnell area offers a wide variety of restaurants and other dining services. Please consider these area restaurants when planning your Family Weekend schedule. Reservations are not required at any Grinnell restaurants, but they are strongly encouraged for Family Weekend.

Where do families go when they arrive on campus?
Your first stop should be the Family Weekend Registration Desk, located in the Joe Rosenfield '25 Center lobby. Upon arrival, families can check in and receive the final Family Weekend schedule, campus maps, and information.

When will Family Weekend take place in 2014?
The dates for Family Weekend 2014 have not yet been determined. Check back here in January 2014 for an announcement.

I have other questions about Family Weekend.
For more information, please contact the Division of Student Affairs at (641) 269-3700.