Waterbury neighborhood is located on the west side of the city of Des Moines, south of I-235, north of Grand Avenue and between Polk Boulevard and 63rd Street. Its central location offers easy access to the interstate and downtown via Ingersoll and Grand Avenues and makes it a convenient location and short commute whether you work downtown or out west.
The area is known for older homes boasting character and charm as well as mature trees and access to the Waveland bike trail. The public schools are Hannawalt Elementary School, Merrill Middle School, and Roosevelt High School. It is near the Des Moines Art Center, Ashworth pool, and Greenwood Park and splash pad.
What is your favorite part about raising your kids here?
Our kids aren’t in school yet, but one reason we like this area is that the public schools are really good. We also love being close to the bike trail.
What makes your neighborhood family friendly?
The streets have sidewalks, which are great for walking and kids riding bikes. We also love the annual neighborhood events. They are a great way to get to know neighbors who you might not meet otherwise.
What events or traditions does your neighborhood have?
Every year our neighborhood has an Easter egg hunt/brunch that is a lot of fun for the kids. For the Fourth of July there is a parade around Waterbury Circle. The kids all decorate their bikes and scooters and wagons and walk around the circle. Usually there is a fire engine that leads the way. On Christmas Eve every one puts luminaries out along the sidewalks—it’s beautiful to drive or walk down the streets and see them all glowing.
Why would you recommend your neighborhood for other families?
We have great neighbors and love the sense of community in the area. When the weather is nice you always see families outside playing with their kids and hanging out.
What makes Waterbury unique?
Most of the homes in this area were built in the 1930s and 1940s so they have a lot of character. That was a big part of why we chose this area. We love old houses and how interesting and unique they are.
What are some of your favorite businesses, restaurants, or shops in your neighborhood?
The Shops at Roosevelt
We love supporting local business and La Mie and The Cheese Shop are two of our favorites!
Viva Mexican Restaurant
Viva serves tasty, quick, and inexpensive Mexican food. And kids get free ice cream. What more can you ask for?
Grounds for Celebration
Grounds for Celebration is one of my favorite coffee shops to go to and meet a friend or get some work done. It has great coffee, yummy pastries, and a seasonal lunch menu.
Series Sponsor: Ingrid Williams Real Estate Team
Ingrid Williams is one of the highest selling agents in Des Moines (in the top 10 list of agents in the last two years running). She stands above the crowd! She is committed to top notch personalized service with full-service real estate representation, flexible commission, and a free moving truck for local moves!
When you want a Des Moines realtor team who will be dedicated to getting the results you want – call Ingrid Williams Real Estate Team. They’ll help you find the right house – or the right buyer for your family’s needs and lifestyle.
Connect with Ingrid
This post is part of a 10 part series about why Des Moines and the surrounding suburbs are a great place to raise a family. Check out the other communities featured in our Ultimate Guide to Des Moines Neighborhoods and Suburbs and learn more about our series sponsor, Ingrid Williams.
