Get Into Grinnell Blog: Stories, News, & More!

Believe it or not, Gunnar Johnson was once new to the town of Grinnell. Now, he is the owner of Summit Carpentry, LLC, a Grinnell Chamber member specializing in all aspects of construction and woodworking (learn more from our Chamber Visit post from July 29). As part of our New Resident Welcome #SponsorshipSaturday series leading up to our event on September 25, Johnson will share some advice and his favorite places in town! 

“Being a transplant to Grinnell, I’ve seen what it is like to be new in town and be welcomed!” says Johnson. “It was so infectious to meet locals who really care about the community, and it rubbed off on me." His suggestions:

1. “Become friends with locals and meet people through people,” he advises. Also, he says the trick is to keep your dollars local, because not only do you support your community, you also meet other locals this way. Win-win.

2. Johnson’s favorite restaurant? Pagliai's Pizza Grinnell for sure! Johnson couldn’t help but appreciate all the love that the owner, Joey Pagliai, puts into his restaurant and community. “He is a great example of being a great presence in town.”

3. Enjoy the local parks! “My kid loves playing at all the parks, whether at Ahrens Family Center or the splash pad in Central Park. Jay's Deli is across the street, so we always stop in for sandwiches and ice cream.” 

4. Grinnell Craft Brewhouse is a hidden gem, according to Johnson. Here, you can enjoy a drink, a good board and card game, and bring and eat food from a local restaurant. 

5. Grin City Bakery and the Strand 3 movie theatre are kid-approved! Enjoy a yummy donut or a popular movie with your family in the closeness of downtown.

“With the size of Grinnell being so small, we are so fortunate to have great food options. We have the best pizza in the state, phenomenal donuts, and a family favorite lunch spot at Jay’s Deli. I hope new residents take advantage of it!” If you are a new resident interested in chatting with more local residents and business owners, make sure to register for our New Resident Welcome event on September 25!

Link to register! New Resident Welcome registration website.