You can't get any closer to Middle America's heart than in Denison. Residents strive to ensure that the city's slogan, "It's a Wonderful Life," remains true, and this is likely why the phrase is painted across the town's water tower.
The book "Denison, Iowa: Searching for the Soul of America Through the Secrets of a Midwest Town" tells the story of a mid-western town that has seen nearly constant population growth since the 1870s
You can't get any closer to Middle America's heart than in Denison. Residents strive to ensure that the city's slogan, "It's a Wonderful Life," remains true, and this is likely why the phrase is painted across the town's water tower.
The book "Denison, Iowa: Searching for the Soul of America Through the Secrets of a Midwest Town" tells the story of a mid-western town that has seen nearly constant population growth since the 1870s. The city serves as Crawford County's county seat, and as the location of the city's only Wal-Mart, it's frequented by many outside of the city as well. Denison is the literal corn-fed city that Americans think of when they envision the heartland, so be sure to enjoy it!
There are people who like big-city living, and then there are people who like small-town America. If you like the big city, New York City is about 1,100 miles to the east. Even in a city that's constantly changing, residents who manage to find a house rental in Denison are able to enjoy the feeling that comes with being part of a tight-knit community that emanates the American way of life. Don't get all patriotic on us just yet, though; there are a few things you might need to consider before landing an apt for rent in this most American of American cities in America's American heartland... of America. Did we mention... America?
When to Start Looking
Denison is one of the few places that has just enough places for rent to afford you to snag one, but not so many that you're left wondering why people are avoiding the place. This means that if you start looking a month or two in advance, you could quite easily find an amazing place to call home. You'd be doing yourself a favor, though, if you put real time into your search. With a crime rate exceptionally lower than both Iowa's and America's average, you can bet that plenty of renters will be vying for the best places.
When to Make the Move
Denison has some of the most insane temperature differentials you'll ever come across in America. Seriously, the average high temperature varies by over 55 degrees throughout the year. With that in mind, you might want to aim for a summer move date. With average high temperatures that barely and rarely get above freezing between December and February, you'd be doing yourself, and your non-frostbitten fingers, a favor by waiting for warmer weather.
What to Bring Along
Whether you're looking for rental homes or apartments, you'll need to bring a few things along if you're going to get a great place. You already know, or at least you should know, that bringing proof of income and a completed rental application is important. Did you know, though, that bringing references from former landlords can also go a long way? Well, that's assuming you didn't burn the place down. Avoid bringing that reference, or invest in white out. Also, having a credit check in tow can be a great help as well.
Sure, we've spoken highly of Denison so far, but do you really think that all of the neighborhoods in the area are that spectacular? If your answer is "yes," then you're correct. Honestly, just check out all of these places. There's literally something for everyone in Denison, and if you can't find a place that you'll love in this city, you might as well try out Cuba. Really, though, communism is unbecoming of you!
Southern Denison: This area is actually cut off from the rest of the city by the Boyer River, so if you happen to be a recluse, there's a good chance you will like it here. The homes, though, are gorgeous, and if you are looking for that hoity-toity country feeling, you can always head over to the Denison Country Club.
Morningside: This area is loaded with beautiful houses, although some may be older. Trust me, though; they look much better than we will at that age. You'll have easy access to Morningside Park, and if you enjoy hiking or cycling, the area is adjacent to the Wheels and Heels Trail.
Central Denison: This is where your population center will be. If you're looking for the feel of city apartments, this is about as close as you can get in America's heartland. The area is home to several parks, including Washington and Union Parks, and also the Norelius Community Library. Oh, and to the west? Your very own Wal-Mart Supercenter.
Northern Denison: This area is sparsely populated, and it's probably because the residents with the large homes and yards want to keep it that way. It's true -- just look at a map. If you didn't live in one of these neighborhoods, you might never know they existed. The area is home to the Northside Recreation Complex, and if you're more of an apartment complex type of person, you can always call Park West Apartments home.
Yes, the neighborhoods in Denison are amazing, but don't think that that's all this city has to offer. There are actually plenty of things to do around here, and unlike many other towns with that "Middle-America" feeling, you don't have to drive 20 minutes to find them.
The Ride of Your Life
This quiet town doesn't always stay that way. Once every year you can enjoy the Crawford County Iowa Fair in Denison. Please don't eat right before getting on the fast rides, though; Little Johnny did that once. Didn't end well.
Get Your Culture On
There are plenty of cultural attractions around, but you might learn the most from the Donna Reed Foundation for the Performing Arts. From theater workshops, improv classes and even celebrations of Donna Reed's birthday, there's no way you won't enjoy this place.
Small-Town Movie Experience
Sure, lots of cities have movie theaters, but you won't find an overcrowded, 20-screen complex when residing in the soul of the Midwest. Just go check out Crawford County Cinema and their whole four screens. It's only one step away from that good old drive-in feeling.
