With traditional population centers in the north and central portions of the county and a booming suburban area on the east, Dallas County has unique and diverse traffic patterns. Located only minutes from the Des Moines metro, but still having cornfields in many back yards, Dallas County truly provides an unmatched combination of rural and urban living.
Adel Partners Chamber Central Iowa Tourism Dallas Center City Hall Dallas County
Conservation |
Dexter City Hall Granger City Hall Redfield City Hall Grimes Chamber Minburn Community |
Perry Area Chamber Van Meter City Hall Waukee Chamber Woodward City Hall |
Adel
Experience cultural tourism in a place that embraces history, offers specialty shopping experiences and hosts many special events. Stroll from appealing shops and restaurants exploring what Adel has to offer – historic landmarks, the downtown heritage square district, brick streets, the North Raccoon River and the Raccoon River Recreational Trail. Go to www.adeliowa.org for more information about this picturesque, small town with quaint charm and easy access to the metroplex.
Dallas Center
Our City Motto: “Quietly Progressive” sums up our outlook quite well. We were founded 125 years ago and have grown to 1,600 people, located about 20 miles northwest of Des Moines. We love and respect our past and are gently moving forward with plans to keep our city sound fun and while utilizing new ideas! We are growing. Our spiritual community is a comfort and collaboration of several churches and denominations that work together to make us better characters and provide support to those in need. We love our small town panache with all the seasonal activities that make us feel like part of the Heartland.
DeSoto
Home to more than 1,000 residents, DeSoto is located immediately south of I-80 on U.S. Highway 169.
Dexter
Dexter, the “Original One Horse Town,” is one of the oldest towns in Dallas County. There is an abundance of history to explore. Search all those interesting places you didn’t know were so close to home. Begin your drive along the White Pole Road.
Granger
Established in 1885, Granger is recognized across the country as the city with the “Hot” and “Cold” water towers. Granger’s history is rooted in agriculture, railroads, coal mines, circuses and the Granger Homesteads. Because of its location close to excellent recreational activities, such as three golf courses, Jester Park and Saylorville Lake, there are ample opportunities for relaxing-to-vigorous activities for individuals of all ages. Located with State highways 141 and 17, Granger has become the sixth fastest growing city in the state of Iowa—the third fastest growing in the metro area. While it maintains the charm of a small town, it is only minutes away from Des Moines.
Grimes
Straddling the border of Dallas and Polk Counties, Grimes has seen a dramatic increase in population. Grimes has many new destinations that make the community a great place to visit. Popular destinations include Beaver Creek Golf Club, Climb Iowa, Cutty’s Des Moines Camping Club, Görtz Haus Gallery & Bistro, Jester Park Golf Course and AmericInn of Grimes. Come visit Grimes, stay for a weekend or a week, and take advantage of all the fun and exciting things the community has to offer.
Minburn
Minburn, the small town with a Big Heart, welcomes you to Dallas County. Third Saturdays of June, July and September, join us at the Big Heart Stage for “Meet Me in Minburn” live entertainment series and for refreshments and roller skating in Meek Park. Independence Day is celebrated on Saturday, July 4, 2011, with a parade, pies, pyrotechnics and tons of family fun.
Perry
Make yourself at home! With dozens of shops and businesses, it’s easy to find everything you need right here in Perry. See the day itineraries section for a delightful way to explore Perry. This community is excited to welcome the newest addition to the Raccoon River Valley Bicycle Trail – paving begins soon. Perry is a full service community that includes the Dallas County Hospital, many large industries and personal small town merchants looking to assist new and returning travelers.
Redfield
Redfield, established in 1860, sits on the Middle Raccoon River, site of one of the few low head dams remaining in Iowa. The fishing is very popular and usually successful. Named for Lt. Col. James Redfield, an early settler who served in the 39th Iowa Infantry during the Civil War, the community boasts a rare Grand Army of the Republic Post with a military museum, the Raccoon River Valley Bike Trail and Depot, a fine library and City Park, and Hanging Rock Park on the Raccoon River. Come see Redfield and you’ll find hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, bird watching, excellent rural scenery and friendly people.
Van Meter
Conveniently located just minutes from West Des Moines, Van Meter provides small-town living with access to “big city” amenities. A picturesque community situated near the Raccoon River, Van Meter prides itself on its quality of life and services provided by local foundations, volunteers and boards. It is home to the Bob Feller Museum and neighbor to the Iowa Veterans Cemetery.
Waukee
Waukee is an exceptional city that offers a safe, friendly community lifestyle and easy proximity to the amenities of a large city. Residents enjoy a thriving business community as well as excellent hometown services and stores, all complemented by world-class shopping and entertainment just minutes away.
Woodward
Located in the northern part of Dallas County, Woodward is a town of approximately 1,200 residents and is a typical Iowa farm town in many ways. Several unique rural businesses are located near Woodward, offering farm fresh dairy products, natural foods, cheeses, herbs and other organic and health products.