Why I Moved Back to Marshalltown, IA — and You Should, Too
A couple returns to Marshalltown, IA, to raise a family.
It took moving away from Marshalltown for Lindsay and Nick Stanton to realize what they were missing.
“You just don’t know what you have until you leave,” Lindsay says.
The Stantons moved out of the state, but as they started to raise a family, they wanted to spend more time with their kids and less time in their cars.
The road brought them back to Marshalltown, which they see as a great place to raise a family. The Stantons cherish how easy they can make connections in Marshalltown, and Lindsay says she always feels welcome in town.
“In Marshalltown, it’s a bigger town, but there’s also a sense of community,” she says.
Being a teacher, Lindsay knew the high-quality education and diversity offered at the Marshalltown Community School District.
“Our schools were a big deal to me,” she says. “And I wanted my kids to grow up with more diversity.”
Lindsay enjoys all of the recreational activities for both her and Nick – but also their kids, Brynn, 6, and Jace, 3. Over the years, Brynn’s hobbies have included dance, softball and tumbling, and the whole family enjoys Marshalltown city parks, aquatic center, YMCA-YWCA and library.
“The kids love Mega-10 Park,” Lindsay says. “We have a love for our Y too, which has so many activities.”
They also are regular visitors of Grimes Farm and Conservation Center, with its hiking trails, nature playscape and more.
“You are just out of town, and you are right in nature,” Lindsay says of Grimes Farm. “Every time we go there, we find something new.”
She mentions there are nice boutique stores in town, and she also likes the fact they can make a quick grocery run and it only takes a few minutes to get there, since everything is nearby.
“We do have everything we need for daily life,” she says.
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Perfect for Families
The Stantons are just one example of a family that’s thriving in Marshalltown, as this area is the perfect place to raise children. In fact, parents can’t get enough of the numerous family-friendly attractions available in Marshalltown. Here are eight that you need to check out.
1. Zip to It.
Located in the center of town, Mega-10 Park has swings, a modern playground, picnic shelters and the Linn Creek Recreational Trail that runs right through it. But youth tend to gravitate to one particular attraction at the Marshalltown park – the zip line. It’s a thrilling ride as you step off the ramp and into the air.
“The highlight of Mega-10 Park in Marshalltown is definitely the zip line! The kids spent a lot of time taking turns, riding this fun and safe attraction.”
Erin Huiatt, Blogger for Des Moines Parent
2. Go for Burgers.
The professional wrestling decor and sports highlights on the TVs are cool, but the real highlights are the burgers and specialty hot dogs at The Flying Elbow in the heart of the 13th Street District. The burger was voted Iowa’s Best Burger by the Iowa Beef Council in 2022. And dessert is covered too, as just a few steps down the road on 13th Street is Lillie Mae Chocolates.
3. Enjoy an Urban Escape.
Though Grimes Farm and Conservation Center makes you feel like you are in the country, you are just a minute or two from the heart of Marshalltown. Nestled along Linn Creek, it features both hiking and biking trails, an observation tower, a conservation center and a nature playscape. It’s the perfect place to be surrounded by nature, yet not too far away from town.
4. Root for the Home Team.
Youth sports leagues and activities are plentiful in Marshalltown. Have your pick of softball, baseball, football, soccer, gymnastics, dance, track and field, boxing, swimming, taekwondo, volleyball and tennis. While many of these sports have their own leagues, some are operated by the Marshalltown Parks and Recreation department or YMCA-YWCA. These teams are great ways for children to be active, make new friends and have some fun.
5. Visit the Library.
The Marshalltown Public Library not only has thousands of children’s books, but it also has many youth programs, events and gatherings. Story time, Pokémon League and visits from the Animal Rescue League are just a few of the many offerings throughout the year for families. Ryan Trosen, a Marshalltown parent of three, says his family loves the interactive story time, craft opportunities and the helpful staff.
“The library is a Marshalltown gem.”
Ryan Trosen, Marshalltown Resident
6. Make a Splash.
Cool off with a splash of fun at the Marshalltown Aquatic Center. A refreshing pool, lazy river and giant slides await you. It’s a perfect place to spend your summer and catch some rays.
7. Get Your Game On.
Wayward Social is not your typical bowling alley. The 20-lane alley includes an arcade, top-notch food and dozens of TVs. Plus, it’s a popular place for birthday parties. “For our family, Wayward Social is more than a restaurant or a bowling alley,” says Kyley Leger, mom of three. “It is a place where our family can get a big-city experience. Some nights, we carry out food. Sometimes, we stop by to use the arcade. And when we’re going for the full experience, we show up to bowl, eat and enjoy the arcade. The staff treats us like family.”
8. Discover a Need for Speed.
The Marshalltown Speedway is known as one of the most exciting dirt tracks in the country. Check out racing every Friday during the warmer months. It’s a tradition that dates to 1962 and draws drivers and fans from multiple states.
Get to Know Marshalltown, IA
Want to learn more about living and working in Marshalltown, IA? Check out the latest edition of Livability Marshalltown, IA.
