Grinnell is a small city in the state of Iowa, located in the central part of the state. It has a population of around 9,000 people and is a great place to visit for those looking for a quiet, idyllic Midwest town. There are numerous parks, trails, and other outdoor areas to explore, along with historic buildings, galleries, and eateries. There are plenty of date ideas for anyone looking for a fun and memorable date in Grinnell.
1. Grinnell Parks and Places For a Walk on a First Date
Grinnell is home to numerous parks and outdoor spaces that are perfect for a walk on the first date. There are two Nature Centers in the city, the Harris Nature Center and the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, both of which offer a variety of nature trails and activities throughout the year. Other parks in the area include the Grinnell City Park, Lake view Park, and the Walnut Nature Area. Besides the parks, there are plenty of trails and green spaces such as the Grinnell Heritage Trail, the Hawkeye Pioneer Trail, and the Grinnell Side Trail. All these places offer beautiful sceneries and plenty of space to talk and get to know each other.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Grinnell
Grinnell offers a variety of coffee shops and cafes that are perfect for a casual first date. The historic Grinnell Coffee Shop is a great place for a date, with its cozy atmosphere and great coffee and tea. The Chimney Swift Café is also a great option and has a wide selection of pastries and sandwiches. The Café Corazon is a great Mexican-themed café with a fun and vibrant atmosphere, while the Sweet Caroline’s Café is a popular spot for families and couples alike. And for something a bit more upscale, try Mary Lou’s Coffee and Bakery.
3. Grinnell Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Grinnell is home to several incredible art galleries, museums, and exhibitions that make for perfect date spots. The Cornelius Art Gallery is a great spot for art lovers, filled with works from local and international artists. The Mid Iowa Art Center is another great place to check out, featuring rotating exhibits and art classes. The Grinnell Carnegie Library has an exhibit hall and monthly events, while the Grinnell Historical Museum and Whitethorn House provide a window into the city’s past.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Grinnell
Grinnell is filled with plenty of live music and entertainment options that make for a fun, unique date. The Grinnell College Center for the Arts provides a variety of concerts, lectures, and other programs throughout the year. The Grinnell Arts Council has a monthly calendar filled with live concerts and performances. For something a bit more laid back, try the Grinnell Jazz Quintet, which plays every Sunday in the summer. And for a more exterior experience, take your date to the open-air concerts at the Diamond Lake Memorial Park.
5. Grinnell Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Grinnell has plenty of pubs, bars, and restaurants to try for a first date drink or food. For a drink, try the White Oak Tavern, the Thirsty Pony, the Beer House, or the Drunken Mule Tavern. And for a meal, the Union Street Café is a great spot for American food, while the Iron Horse Saloon offers delicious barbecue and beer. The Montichello offers Italian food, while the 9th Street Deli provides a great selection of sandwiches, salads, and pizzas.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Grinnell
If you’re still looking for other ideas for a date in Grinnell, there are plenty of activities to choose from. Take your date to a movie at the Grinnell Theater or go to one of the city’s many festivals. Grinnell also offers plenty of outdoor activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Or, if you’re feeling athletic, try a round of disc golf at the Grinnell Disc Golf Course. And for something more relaxed, take a stroll around Lakeview Park or spend an evening at the Grinnell Casino. No matter what you choose, there’s definitely something for everyone in Grinnell.
