Sorry we missed you!
Our office may not be open right now, but we've provided a number of self-guided options to help you learn about Grinnell while you're here.
After-hours Visits
Photo of north campus in fall
Guided Virtual Tour
Using our virtual tour as you walk around campus is the next best thing to the live student-guided tour. Our students will lead you as you learn all about our amazing campus.
Fun Places to Visit on and off Campus
Depending on when you're here, some of the options below may be closed or inaccessible.
Indoors
Bear Recreation and Athletic Center
On the north end of campus, the Bear includes an Olympic-sized pool, gym, fitness center, field house, and outdoor athletic fields and courts.
Bucksbaum Center for the Arts Rotunda
The Bucksbaum Center is the heart of the fine arts, and its rotunda is popular among a cappella groups.
Grinnell College Museum of Art
Catch a traveling exhibition or see some of the College's own collection.
Humanities and Social Studies Center (HSSC)
The HSSC's 3-story atrium, which links 2 well-loved (and carefully renovated) buildings with 2 new pavilions, provides great study spaces, a place to watch what's happening in the Global Kitchen, and the Global Cafe.
Spencer Grill
A lively study space and casual cafe in the Joe Rosenfield '25 Center (JRC), the student union.
Outdoors
Grinnell College Garden
Situated on the east edge of campus, behind GAME House, the garden is a collaborative effort, supported by students, faculty, and staff. Most of the harvest is donated to a local food pantry.
Hammocks
Take a few minutes to relax outdoors near the HSSC or the JRC.
Kington Plaza
This space outside the HSSC is a great place to study, hang out between classes, or take a class.
Mac Field
Enjoy the large green space east of the North Campus residence halls where students play pick-up soccer and Ultimate. Beneath their feet is the College's largest geothermal well field that heats and cools the HSSC.
Around Town
Drake Community Library
A great place to read just a block south of campus.
Hotel Grinnell
Down the block from the Drake Library is a renovated school building, transformed into a hotel. It includes the Periodic Table, a restaurant with a large patio, where you can play trivia or lawn games.
Pioneer Bookshop
The College's bookstore, located downtown on Main Street, is where students can purchase their books, supplies, and Grinnell swag.
Saints Rest Coffee House
Great coffee and good vibes. A popular spot for meet-ups with friends.
Strand 3 Movie Theatre
See the latest blockbusters a short walk from campus and at a discount for students.
Hungry? Thirsty?
Grinnell's got you covered. Take a moment to peruse this local restaurant guide.