Ingersoll Park is one of those Des Moines neighborhoods that quietly captures your heart. Located just west of downtown, bordered by the lively Ingersoll Avenue to the south and I-235 to the north, it’s a community that feels at once tucked away and right in the mix. If you’re considering a move to Des Moines or searching for a new place to call home, here’s what living in Ingersoll Park is really like—from the vibe and houses to schools, parks, and what neighbors love most.
A Welcoming and Down-to-Earth Community
Ingersoll Park isn’t showy, but it’s proud of its charm. This is a neighborhood where people wave as you walk by, gardeners tend pollinator-friendly beds along tree-lined curbs, and families gather for casual block parties when the weather’s nice. It’s common to see kids riding bikes, couples walking dogs, or neighbors chatting on a front porch. The diversity here—single professionals, retirees, young families, and longtime residents—gives Ingersoll Park a friendly, genuine feel.
The sense of community is also helped by the neighborhood association, which regularly organizes cleanups, seasonal gatherings, and “porch parties.” Residents love participating in these events, often held at spots like Greenwood Park or along 39th Street, where everyone’s welcome and new faces are encouraged.
Types of Housing: Character and Variety
If you’re searching for architectural interest, Ingersoll Park delivers. Here, you’ll find a mix of well-cared-for single-family homes, charming two-story houses from the earlier part of the 20th century, and a sprinkling of mid-century ranches and tasteful modern infill. Streets like 40th, 41st, Foster Drive, and Woodland Avenue are especially known for houses with classic brick or stucco facades, original hardwood floors, and generous yards shaded by towering oaks and maples.
For those looking for something smaller or lower-maintenance, there are a handful of townhomes, duplexes, and well-managed apartment complexes, mainly closer to Ingersoll Avenue. This range of housing makes the neighborhood appealing to all life stages.
- Styles range from Craftsman bungalows and Tudor revivals to ranches and recently built single-family homes.
- Most houses have garages or alley-access parking, and yards are typically spacious by city standards.
- Pride of ownership is evident, with neighbors keeping up landscaping, gardening, and home improvements.
Walkability: Strolls, Shops, and Daily Life
You won’t need to jump in your car for every errand in Ingersoll Park. While much of the neighborhood is residential and leafy, the southern border along Ingersoll Avenue is one of Des Moines’ most vibrant walkable districts.
- Within a half-mile stroll are favorites like Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure, Lachele’s Fine Foods (for a burger and shake), and neighborhood anchors like Sakari Sushi, Star Bar, and various unique boutiques.
- Groceries are a short drive—either to Gateway Market in Sherman Hill or the Hy-Vee on University Avenue—but many opt for the charming neighborhood shops for bread, coffee, or takeaway dinners.
- Sidewalks line nearly every street; recent city improvements are adding curb ramps and crosswalks, making walking with strollers or kids easier than ever.
Neighbors especially appreciate how easy it is to walk down Ingersoll, grab a coffee, or enjoy happy hour without leaving their own backyard.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families in Ingersoll Park are well-served by Des Moines Public Schools, with elementary-aged children typically attending Hubbell Elementary on 42nd Street—a historic building with strong neighborhood support and active parent involvement. Roosevelt High School, just up the road on 42nd, has a great reputation in the city for both academics and extra-curriculars.
For families with younger children, several daycare and preschool options are nearby, including those housed in local churches or Montessori formats. Greenwood Park and Ashby Park offer ample space to play, picnic, and meet other families with similar-aged children.
- The neighborhood’s low-traffic streets and friendly neighbors mean kids often ride bikes or play in front yards together.
- The neighborhood association frequently plans activities for families, including Halloween costume parades and spring egg hunts.
Parks, Green Spaces, and Outdoor Enjoyment
Outdoor life is a highlight in Ingersoll Park. The centerpiece for recreation is Greenwood/Ashworth Park, just a few blocks to the south and west. This massive park system features a rose garden, winding paved trails ideal for biking or running, playgrounds, and the beloved Sylvan Theater for summer concerts.
Ingersoll Park itself, located on 39th Street, serves as a community green space—a place for impromptu soccer games, dog walks, and cooling off beneath the trees.
- The Walnut Creek Trail runs nearby, making it easy for residents to connect to Gray’s Lake, Water Works Park, and beyond by foot or bike.
- A canopy of mature trees provides shade and beauty on nearly every block, with the city and neighbors maintaining public landscaping.
Safety and Peace of Mind
One thing you’ll hear repeatedly from residents: Ingersoll Park feels safe. The close-knit community means neighbors keep an eye out for each other’s homes, and incidents are rare. Proximity to major roads means police and emergency services can respond quickly, but crime rates are consistently lower here than in busier areas closer to downtown.
Regular neighborhood watch meetings and easy access to Des Moines’ community policing initiatives help everyone stay informed and connected.
Location: Minutes from Downtown and Major Employers
Location is one of Ingersoll Park’s greatest assets. Commuters and urban explorers alike love being just a five-minute drive (or quick bike ride) from downtown Des Moines, while also enjoying the peace and quiet of a true neighborhood. Major employers such as Principal Financial, Wells Fargo, UnityPoint Health, and the downtown state offices are all within easy reach via Ingersoll Avenue or I-235.
- Proximity to Drake University, the Des Moines Arts Center, and the shops and events of Sherman Hill and Woodland Heights means you’re never far from culture and entertainment.
- For those working in the western suburbs or at area hospitals, commuting is stress-free, with quick access to main arteries.
What Residents Love Most
Ask almost anyone who calls Ingersoll Park home, and they’ll tell you: it’s the feeling of belonging. People here look out for each other, share tips about the best brunches or home handymen, and celebrate the changing seasons together—whether that’s with backyard bonfires in the fall or plant swaps in spring.
Locals rave about the “small town in the city” vibe, the walkable Ingersoll corridor, and the beauty of lush, tree-shaded streets. In short, living in Ingersoll Park means balancing convenience, character, and a true sense of community—qualities that make it one of Des Moines’ most enduringly popular neighborhoods.