Grimes, IA

County: Polk

History

Grimes, Iowa

Grimes is a city located in Polk and Dallas counties in the state of Iowa, United States. It was initially settled as an agricultural community in the mid-1800s. Here is a brief history of Grimes:

- Early Settlement: Grimes was initially known as Chequamegon, named after the Chippewa tribe's home region in Wisconsin. In the late 1800s, the town was renamed after James W. Grimes, a former governor and senator from Iowa.

- Incorporation: Grimes was officially incorporated as a city on March 13, 1894. At the time, it had a population of around 351 residents.

- Railroad: The growth of Grimes was heavily influenced by the arrival of the Des Moines & Fort Dodge Railroad in 1881. The railroad facilitated transportation and provided a key factor in the town's development.

- Agriculture and Economy: Like many other towns in Iowa, agriculture became the backbone of Grimes' economy. It was primarily a farming community, with crops like corn, soybeans, and oats being cultivated. Farmers also raised cattle, hogs, and poultry.

- Education: Education played an essential role in Grimes. The first school in the village opened in 1874, and in 1916, a new consolidated schoolhouse was constructed to accommodate the growing population and improve educational opportunities.

- Modern Development: In the late 20th century, Grimes experienced significant growth due to its proximity to Des Moines and its favorable quality of life. The town expanded its residential areas, attracting families looking for a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the city.

- Infrastructure and Amenities: Over the years, Grimes developed an array of amenities for its residents, including parks, recreational facilities, shopping centers, and restaurants. The city has focused on infrastructure improvements, such as expanding roads, utilities, and modernizing public services.

- Population Growth: Grimes experienced substantial population growth in recent decades. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population increased from around 2,000 residents in 2000 to over 15,000 residents by 2020, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in Iowa.

Today, Grimes continues to focus on balancing its small-town charm with contemporary urban amenities, providing its residents with a comfortable and vibrant community.

Attractions

Waterworks Park

Waterworks Park

Enjoy outdoor recreation activities like fishing, hiking, and picnicking in this beautiful park.

Grimes Public Library

Visit the local library to explore a wide range of books and participate in community events.

Mally's Wehrenberg Theaters

Catch the latest movies on the big screen at this local cinema.

Beaverbrook Golf Course

Play a round of golf at this scenic 9-hole golf course.

Grimes Community Complex

This multi-purpose facility offers various amenities, including a fitness center, gymnasium, and indoor walking track.

Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center

Experience live performances, including concerts and theater productions, at this nearby venue in Cedar Falls.

The District at Prairie Trail

Explore various shops, restaurants, and entertainment options in this vibrant mixed-use development.

Johnston Historical Museum

Just a short drive away is the Johnston Historical Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.

Saylorville Lake

Located nearby, Saylorville Lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking along its scenic trails.

Jester Park

Enjoy outdoor activities, such as camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing, at Jester Park, which is located on the outskirts of Grimes.

Climate

Grimes, Iowa has a humid continental climate. The city experiences all four distinct seasons of the year with noticeable variations in temperature and precipitation.

Summers in Grimes are generally warm and humid, with average high temperatures reaching around 86°F (30°C) in July. Humidity levels can be quite high during this time, which can make the heat feel more intense. Thunderstorms are also common in the summer months, providing some relief from the heat.

Autumns in Grimes are mild and pleasant, with temperatures gradually cooling down. September sees average high temperatures of around 77°F (25°C), while October drops to around 62°F (17°C). Fall is generally a drier season with lower precipitation compared to summer.

Winters in Grimes can be cold, with average high temperatures falling below freezing from December through February. January is the coldest month, with average temperatures hovering around 29°F (-2°C). Precipitation during the winter months mainly comes in the form of snow, and the city typically experiences moderate to heavy snowfall.

Spring in Grimes brings a gradual warming trend, with temperatures ranging from the low 50s°F (10°C) in March to the mid-70s°F (around 24°C) in May. It is a time of rapid vegetation growth, and occasional rain showers can be expected.

Overall, Grimes, Iowa experiences a typical Midwestern climate with warm summers, cold winters, and noticeable shifts between the seasons. It is advisable to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions throughout the year.

Neighborhoods

Grimes, Iowa is located in Dallas County and is a growing suburb just northwest of Des Moines. It offers a range of neighborhoods for residents to choose from.

Northbridge Valley

This neighborhood is in the northern part of Grimes and offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. It is known for its quiet and family-friendly atmosphere.

Waterford Landing

Located near the Grimes Sports Complex, this neighborhood features larger, modern homes with well-maintained yards. It provides a great sense of community and is popular among families.

Autumn Park

Situated in the southeastern part of Grimes, Autumn Park is known for its newer construction homes. The neighborhood features a mix of ranch-style and two-story houses and offers a suburban feel with proximity to schools and amenities.

Heritage at Grimes

This neighborhood is an active adult community geared towards residents aged 55 and older. It offers maintenance-free living with amenities such as a clubhouse and walking trails.

Beaverbrooke

Beaverbrooke is an upscale neighborhood with beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and well-manicured yards. It offers a mix of architectural styles and is known for its sense of community and neighborhood events.

Country Cove

Situated on the western side of Grimes, Country Cove is a tranquil and rural neighborhood. It features larger lots and houses, providing residents with a more private and spacious setting.

Chevalia Valley

Located in the southern part of Grimes, Chevalia Valley is a newer development primarily consisting of single-family homes. It offers a mix of architectural styles and is known for its recreational amenities such as parks and trails.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods in Grimes, and each offers its own unique features and characteristics. Grimes, overall, provides a safe and family-friendly environment with a strong sense of community.

Nearby Cities