Get to Know: Grimes
As one of the fastest-growing cities in the metro, the City of Grimes is development-friendly and continues to support a community with diverse businesses and sustainable neighborhoods. City staff cultivates positive relationships with developers to encourage projects that create employment opportunities and enhance quality of life for residents.
Attractions like K1 Speed, which features indoor go-karts reaching speeds up to 45 miles per hour, along with Climb Iowa and Sky Zone Trampoline Park, offer plenty of ways to stay active and have fun. Enjoy local favorites like Food Depot Bar and Grill, where you can also shop a selection of grocery and frozen items. Be sure to attend Governors Days, the community's largest annual event held each June at the Grimes South Sports Complex. The updated Grimes Public Library now offers expanded spaces, including a sensory room and other inclusive features.
Grimes at a Glance
Grimes in one sentence: Grimes is a vibrant, young and growing community that retains a community feel, with access to all the amenities of the DSM region.
The top five best things about Grimes: Grimes is known for its well-respected school district, family-oriented focus, convenient access to Interstates 80 and 35, its famous sweet corn and continued growth that brings new business, career opportunities and investments to the community.
Hidden Gems and Unexpected Finds in Grimes: Old School Pinball & Arcade, located in the historic Governors District, is a must-visit destination featuring one of the best collections of pinball machines in Iowa and beyond.
Community Traditions and Annual Events: Grimes Governors Days is a celebration of community held each summer, bringing residents together for a variety of activities and events.
Best Ways to Get Connected: From the local rotary club to multiple church denominations and locations, Grimes offers many ways to get involved.
If you’re coming to check out the community, be sure to spend your day ... exploring local dining, staying active and discovering all that Grimes has to offer. The city features a growing mix of locally owned and well-known restaurants, from casual bites to sweet treats. When it comes to recreation, bike trails, go-karting and indoor rock climbing are just a few of the many ways to stay active.
Explore the Governor's District, local festivals and the statue of Governor James W. Grimes, Iowa's third governor. Restaurants to visit include Destination Grille, Food Depot and Pour Choices, while recreational destinations include Climb Iowa, Emerge Academy, K1 Speed and Sky Zone.
The Hy-Vee Multiplex is a major addition to the community, featuring 12 full-size soccer fields, 18 baseball and softball fields, 36 batting cages, 36 bullpens and more.
Some of the ways Grimes advances inclusive strategies: The Grimes community works to recognize and address unconscious bias while fostering a welcoming environment for all residents. Local institutions, including schools, city leadership and the Chamber, participate in organizations and professional development opportunities focused on inclusion. Programs like the Grimes Leadership Academy also incorporate discussions around inclusive practices in the workplace.
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