Get to Know: Bondurant
Bondurant is a growing community with easy access to Des Moines, offering a balance of small-town charm and expanding amenities. Find trailhead access in Bondurant, where the Chichaqua Valley Trail offers cycling, running and walking amid rolling landscapes. Residents can also enjoy local favorites like Reclaimed Rails Brewing Company and Brick Street Market & Cafe, along with parks, community events and nearby recreational opportunities that make it easy to stay connected and active.
Bondurant at a Glance
- Population: 9,511 (2024, US Census Bureau)
- Location within Greater Des Moines: East
- Distance from Des Moines: 14.2 miles
- Type of Community: Suburb
- School District: Bondurant-Farrar Community School District (Serves the communities of Bondurant and Farrar)
- County: Polk
Bondurant in one sentence: Life connecting the dots — The City of Bondurant has been connecting people to opportunities for more than 135 years. With a tight-knit yet growing community, Bondurant residents and businesses are passionate about connecting to each other while welcoming visitors and new community members alike. Families are drawn to the convenience of location to the metro, a strong school system and a safe community for raising future generations.
The top five best things about Bondurant: Bondurant is known for its friendly, welcoming community where neighbors are always willing to lend a hand. Trails run throughout the city and connect Bondurant to surrounding communities. There are activities and events year-round, with a strong lineup of summer events and programming through the library. The Bondurant-Farrar Community School District provides a wide range of opportunities for students to learn and grow. The community also offers easy access to outdoor recreation, including Chichaqua Bottoms, a greenbelt and wilderness area with camping, hiking and wildlife viewing, and Thomas Mitchell Park, along with neighborhood parks and playgrounds throughout the city.
Hidden gems and unexpected finds in Bondurant: The Bondurant business community continues to grow, especially in the downtown and business district areas. Local favorites like Off the Rails Quilting Shop, a nationally recognized quilting destination, Little House on Main, Somewhere in the Middle Coffee Shop and Homeslice Pies are just a few of the hidden gems adding to the community's charm.
Community traditions and annual events: Bondurant Summerfest, sponsored by the local Men’s Club, and community events hosted by the Bondurant Chamber of Commerce celebrate the spirit of the city. Bondu Blues & Brews is a signature annual event featuring live music, a homebrewing competition and family-friendly activities. During the holiday season, be sure to check out the Merry & Bright Parade and other festive events that bring the community together.
Best way to get connected: Attend events, stop by the library, check out BrickHouse Fitness for fitness classes and connect with the Men's Club or the Bondurant Civic club to get involved in the community.
People to know in Bondurant: Mayor Doug Elrod and City Administrator Marketa Oliver.
If you’re coming to check out the community, be sure to spend your day … Start the day by having a specialty coffee at Somewhere in Middle Coffee Shop. Then walk down Main Street to check out Off the Rails Quilting and Little House on Main for some shopping. Then stop by HomeSlice Pie for a mini pie or even a flight. Later head to Reclaimed Rails Brewing Company for some live music and beverage. Or end the afternoon with an award-winning tenderloin from BrickStreet Market Cafe.
Some of the ways Bondurant advances inclusion strategies: Bondurant continues to advance inclusion through community-led efforts focused on ensuring all residents feel welcomed and treated fairly. The City’s DEI Committee works to support initiatives that foster connection, understanding and equitable access across the community
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