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About Inver Grove Heights
Inver Grove's History
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 over 35,000 residents, who enjoy excellent schools, park facilities, Veterans Memorial Community Center and Inver Wood Golf Course -- among the Twin Cities' best.
The city's historic Rock Island Swing Bridge boasts a nightly light show during summer months, and the area's only inclusive playground and splash pad is set to open at the city's Heritage Village Park in 2026. The IGH City Hall features an art gallery of works by local student artists.
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.
Recent housing developments have brought new economic development to the area, and the City is home to a variety of businesses from family-owned local establishments to Fortune 100 company CHS, Inc. and gardening giant Gertens.
Every September, the community celebrates Inver Grove Heights Days. Highlights include a treasure hunt, sporting activities and tournaments, a street dance, parade, fireworks display, a food truck event, a classic car show, a citywide bike ride 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 visitors from neighboring communities.
The diverse history, prime location, affordability, available land and quality of life that Inver Grove Heights offers makes the city a great choice when opening a business or exploring development opportunities, or looking for a home or a place to spend time outdoors. If you don't live here already, we hope you visit us soon!
Learn More:
Watch the IGH Highlight Video from Town Square Television
Check out Current Developments
View the IGH Community Profile
Take a virtual tour of Inver Grove Heights historical places of interest