Discover quality undergraduate and graduate programs at our main, residential campus within walking distance of Lamoni, Iowa.
What started in 1895 with just 18 students on the second floor of a building in downtown Lamoni, Iowa has now become a four-year accredited university, offering 35+ academic programs to over 1,400 students annually.
Home to just under 800 enrolled students, our beautiful and welcoming main, residential campus of Graceland University is always buzzing with activity. Located in Lamoni, Iowa, Graceland offers the safety, security and tranquility of small town life while still providing plenty of activities for our students to enjoy.
The best way to learn what Graceland is all about is to see it for yourself! Located just over an hour south of Des Moines, Iowa, our main, residential campus in Lamoni is situated on 170 acres of beautiful rolling hills just waiting to be explored.
Higher education is still one of the best investments you can make in your future: higher income potential, greater career advancement, a strong, lifelong network, and the self-confidence to pursue your passion are all part of the Graceland Experience.
Look At Graceland's Generous Scholarships
With over 30 undergraduate majors and minors, at Graceland you’re sure to find an area of study you’ll not only love but that you can turn into a lifetime career.
Students living on the Lamoni campus enjoy a vibrant residential community with traditional residence halls and apartment options that foster connection, leadership, and lifelong friendships through House systems and on-campus events. Dorm life includes convenient access to the Floyd M. McDowell Commons dining hall and casual eateries, where students gather for meals, study breaks, and campus traditions that help shape the college experience. Graceland’s supportive living environment is designed to help students balance academics, social life, and personal growth while taking advantage of everything the campus and nearby Lamoni community have to offer.
At Graceland, there’s always something fun to do. With 23 varsity athletic teams and 30+ clubs and organizations, you’ll have plenty of activities to choose from.
Here you’ll find:
Lamoni blends the comfort of small-town Iowa with the energy of campus life, giving students and visiting families plenty of things to do in Lamoni, Iowa, near Graceland University. It’s a college town near I-35, so you get a peaceful place to study and recharge, plus quick access to day trips and regional adventures.
Located just a quick walk away from campus, students can easily take advantage of everything this small town has to offer. Grab a drink at the local coffee house. Catch a movie at the Coliseum Theatre. Explore the town from the local bike trail. Head to one of the parks to play games or relax. Pick up some veggies at the farmer’s market.
10 Things You Have To Do While In Lamoni
Small-town life is relaxing, but sometimes you need a change of pace. With Des Moines just over an hour away, Kansas City less than two and Omaha just under three, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the big city every now and again.
Plan Your Trip To Des Moines
Getting to the Lamoni, Iowa Campus is easy.
Driving from the South
Travel I-35 North to Exit 4 (first exit in Iowa). Turn left off of the exit onto US 69, and drive about 4 to 5 miles. Turn left on Cherry Street. Turn left onto College Avenue, and follow it to the four-way stop. Turn right, and follow the road to the main parking lot. Please drive onto Circle Drive, and park in a reserved space for visitors.
Driving from the North
Travel I-35 South to Exit 4 (last exit in Iowa). Turn right off of the exit onto US 69, and drive about 4 to 5 miles. Turn left on Cherry Street. Turn left onto College Avenue, and follow it to the four-way stop. Turn right, and follow the road to the main parking lot. Please drive onto Circle Drive, and park in a reserved space for visitors.
Detailed driving instructions from:
Campus Airport Uber Voucher Program allows for transportation from Kansas City International Airport and Des Moines International Airport to the Lamoni campus. This service is available for Fall move-in, return from Fall and Spring break, and for Spring semester return. You must preregister for this service at least 5 days prior to your travel. Visit the transportation page for more information.
Graceland Airport Shuttle Service transports students from the Lamoni campus to the Kansas City International Airport and Des Moines International Airport for Fall Break, Spring Break, and the end of the Fall and Spring semesters. Visit the Shuttle Service page to find a schedule, fees and other restrictions. Space is limited so schedule early.
Jefferson Bus Lines (not affiliated with Graceland) provides daily bus service to 17 states across America’s Heartland including Iowa and Missouri with affordable prices and convenient schedules.
*Mileage will vary based on route and reference point.
If you’re visiting Graceland University’s Lamoni campus for a tour, event, or move-in weekend, there are a number of lodging options close by in the surrounding area. A quick search for “hotels near Graceland University Iowa” or “hotels near Graceland University Lamoni campus” will display nearby inns, motels, and guest houses suitable for families, students, and counselors.
For more ideas on local attractions and visitor resources while you’re in town, check out the Lamoni Area Visitor Bureau.
Graceland University’s main residential campus is located in Lamoni, Iowa, a small college town just off Interstate 35 in southern Iowa. The campus sits on scenic rolling hills and is about one hour south of Des Moines, making it peaceful yet accessible.
Getting to Lamoni is simple by car via I-35, with clear driving directions available from major cities like Des Moines, Kansas City, Omaha, Minneapolis, and Chicago. Visitors can follow posted campus directions to designated parking areas near the main buildings.
The closest major airports are Des Moines International Airport and Kansas City International Airport, both within a reasonable driving distance of campus. Transportation options are available at key times during the academic year to help students travel between the airport and Lamoni.
Lamoni offers a welcoming small-town atmosphere with local coffee shops, parks, bike trails, a historic theater, and seasonal events all within walking distance of campus. Students also enjoy easy access to nearby cities like Des Moines and Kansas City for shopping, entertainment, and day trips.
Yes. Visitors will find several lodging options in and around Lamoni, and a quick search for “hotels near Graceland University Iowa” will show nearby places to stay for campus tours, move-in, or events. For additional local travel information and attractions, visit this page.
