Get to Know: Adel
What comes to mind when you think of sweet corn? If you’re in Iowa, the city of Adel should! With its annual Sweet Corn Festival taking place each August, this growing community knows how to celebrate what makes it special. Founded in 1847, Adel is also the birthplace of 1939 Heisman Trophy winner Nile Kinnick, who played for the University of Iowa and for whom Kinnick Stadium is named. While in Adel, visit the Raccoon River Valley Trailhead, where you can ride, walk, roll or run 89 miles of paved trail. Spend time at Kinnick Feller Park, one of Adel's most well-known community parks, or take a short drive to the Bob Feller Museum in nearby Van Meter to learn more about the baseball legend’s life and Iowa roots.
Adel at a Glance
- Population: 6,763 (2024, US Census Bureau)
- Location within Greater Des Moines: West
- Distance from Des Moines: 26.6 miles
- Type of Community: Town
- School District: ADM Community Schools (Serves the communities of Adel, DeSoto and Minburn)
- County: Dallas
Adel in one sentence: Adel is a beautiful small town, just close enough to the big city, with a heart of its own where charm meets adventure
The top five best things about Adel: The best things about Adel include the ability to walk to many everyday needs—from groceries to healthcare, schools and locally owned restaurants—the community’s strong school district, the size of the community (small enough to feel connected yet large enough to offer variety), the connected Raccoon River Valley Trail and its proximity to Des Moines.
Hidden Gems and Unexpected Finds in Adel: Adel’s beautiful courthouse square, the historic Adel Museum and the connected Raccoon River Valley Trail are just a few highlights. A growing number of independently owned businesses and a blend of long-time residents and new community members make Adel a unique and welcoming place.
Community Traditions and Annual Events: Check out the Adel Sweet Corn Festival, Holiday Sip and Sample event and the garden and home tours.
Best Ways to Get Connected: There are active Rotary, Kiwanis and Lions Clubs, a women’s club, the Chamber and many church groups in Adel to connect with other community members. The active school district is also involved with booster programs for both athletics and fine arts.
Big Things on the Horizon for Adel: Growth in and around Adel continues to create opportunities for small businesses to thrive. The Raccoon River Valley Trail also continues to draw more visitors to the area, increasing visibility and connection to the region.
If you’re coming to check out the community, be sure to spend your day ... Eating breakfast at Patrick’s, walking along the Raccoon River Valley Trail, grabbing a coffee at The Morning Grind and exploring the historic square. Enjoy lunch at Fiesta, bowl at the Adel Family Fun Center, play disc golf in Evans Park and grab dinner at Brickyard Burgers and Brews. In the evening, attend an ADM athletic or fine art event or take a short drive to Keuhn Conservation Area or Brenton Arboretum to enjoy the outdoors. End your night with ice cream at Billy’s or a cocktail at Great White Buffalo Public House.
Some of the ways Adel advances inclusive strategies: Adel’s Parks and Recreation department is working to make all playgrounds more inclusive, and the local food pantry partners with nonprofits and the community to address food insecurity. The Chamber also provides resources that support inclusive business practices.
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