Des Moines

Greenwood Historic, Des Moines Neighborhood

Greenwood Historic offers a calm and serene environment with low traffic noise, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The neighborhood features a blend of housing types, including spacious single detached homes and large apartment buildings, many built before the 1960s, providing diverse living options. Proximity to nearby parks enhances access to outdoor recreation and natural beauty. Grocery stores and primary schools are located conveniently close to many residences, adding to daily practicality. Bicycle infrastructure supports easy cycling within the area, while highways nearby facilitate hassle-free car travel. Ample parking options contribute to an overall convenient and accessible neighborhood experience.

People who prefer a calm atmosphere will enjoy Greenwood Historic. This area is wonderful for those who need quiet surroundings, as there are low levels of noise from traffic. Finally, although this area does not contain any parks, public green spaces are very well-located in nearby neighborhoods, which makes them very easy to get to from numerous locations within Greenwood Historic.

Highlights of Greenwood Historic

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Greenwood Park

Greenwood Park is a beloved urban oasis featuring walking trails, a picturesque pond, and a scenic rose garden, making it a favorite spot for outdoor gatherings and tranquil strolls right in the heart of the Greenwood Historic neighborhood.

🏫 Greenwood Elementary School

Serving generations of families, Greenwood Elementary School is a historic educational institution on 37th Street, recognized for its strong community involvement and role as a central gathering place for neighborhood events.

🍽️ Grand Avenue Restaurant Row

Stretching along Grand Avenue, this restaurant row is a go-to destination within Greenwood Historic, with local favorites like The Cheese Bar and other unique eateries offering eclectic dining experiences steps from beautiful, tree-lined streets.

🛒 Historic Shops on Polk Blvd

Polk Boulevard hosts a variety of independent boutiques and specialty shops, where residents and visitors alike enjoy browsing for unique gifts, art, and locally made goods in charming, well-preserved storefronts.

🚴 Bill Riley Trail Access

Connecting Greenwood Historic to larger Des Moines, the Bill Riley Trail entrance at Greenwood Park offers residents easy access to a scenic biking and walking path that weaves through woodlands, parks, and regional attractions.

Greenwood Historic

This October in Greenwood Historic

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

October 10–31, 2026

Downtown Farmers’ Market

Historic Court District • 8:00 AM–12:00 PM Saturdays

A convenient downtown outing for Greenwood Historic residents, with Iowa-grown produce, baked goods, prepared food, crafts, live entertainment and family activities. The October season offers fall favorites such as apples, gourds and sweet potatoes, while Halloween at the Market on October 31 adds family-friendly costumes and trick-or-treating.

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October 16–18, 2026

IMT Des Moines Marathon Weekend

Downtown Des Moines and MidAmerican Energy Two Rivers Park • Expo October 16, 12:00 PM–6:00 PM; races October 18 from 8:00 AM

This major downtown sports weekend is close enough for Greenwood Historic residents to attend as runners, spectators or casual supporters. The free health and fitness expo offers vendors and activities, while marathon morning brings a lively city-center atmosphere, multiple race distances and a noon Kids Run for families.

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October 23–24, 2026

Ballet Des Moines Presents Ghost Stories

Hoyt Sherman Place • 7:00 PM

Hoyt Sherman Place provides a nearby, distinctive night out from Greenwood Historic, combining contemporary dance, Edgar Allan Poe-inspired material, excerpts from Giselle, live music and a Halloween-season mood. It is a strong option for residents seeking an arts-focused evening without leaving central Des Moines.

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October 27, 2026

Ben Folds & A Piano

Hoyt Sherman Place • 7:30 PM

Residents can enjoy an intimate central-Des Moines concert featuring Ben Folds in a piano-centered performance. The historic Hoyt Sherman setting makes this especially appealing for a convenient date night or cultural evening, and a portion of every ticket supports Keys For Kids music-education programs.

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From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Greenwood Historic

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Greenwood Historic

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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