About Inver Grove Heights

Inver Grove

In 1852, pioneers staked claims in an area known as Inver Grove. Attracted by the area's rolling green hills and proximity to the Mississippi River, these settlers from Ireland and Germany quickly established a new community. Those of Irish descent lived along what is now Rich Valley Boulevard. Settlers from Germany laid claim to the wooded farmland in the northwest portion of the community, clearing and cultivating fields among area lakes. Native Americans also lived in the area we now know as Inver Grove.

By April of 1858, the Township of Inver Grove Heights was incorporated and the first Board of Supervisors was elected. From 1858 until 1880, hundreds of settlers were attracted to the township that was named after an Irish fishing village, "Inver" and the homeland of the German settlers, "Grove." By 1880, 240 farms, four churches and four school districts had been established here.

As commercial and industrial expansion took place in the late 1880s, people living in the one square mile adjacent to the railroad separated themselves from the surrounding area by incorporating as the Village of Inver Grove in 1909. The two entities existed side by side for more than 56 years.

The City of Inver Grove Heights

Since the creation of the City of Inver Grove Heights in 1965, the area has grown to 28 square miles that provide a healthy mix of quiet residential neighborhoods and busy commercial districts. Today, Inver Grove Heights is home to approximately 35,000 residents, who enjoy excellent schools, park facilities, a community center and a golf course that is among the Twin Cities' best.

Located in Northern Dakota County, a ten-minute drive from downtown St. Paul, Inver Grove Heights is bordered on the east by the Mississippi River. Lakes, ponds, and wetlands cover many areas of the city, providing a beautiful natural setting and year-round recreational activities.  Residents have a wide choice of housing, ranging from apartments to large-lot estates.

Every September the community celebrates Inver Grove Heights Days. Highlights include a treasure hunt, sporting activities and tournaments, a street dance, parade, fireworks display and citywide garage sale. Inver Grove Heights is also known as a great place to view holiday lights each December. These family-centered events attract people from around the area.

The diverse history, prime location, affordability, available land, and quality of life that Inver Grove Heights offers makes our city a great choice when looking for a home, a business or development opportunity, or a place to spend time exploring nature. If you don't live here already, we hope you visit us soon!

Learn More:
Explore our Commercial Districts
Check out Current Developments
View our Community Profile
Take a virtual tour of Inver Grove Heights historical places of interest
Browse the NEW Convention & Visitors Bureau Guide