Spencer’s Mainstreet has a vitality and appeal rarely found in communities of similar size.  Stores and shops are abundant on Grand Avenue, and they provide a wealth of products and services.  The impressive downtown features new streetlights, sidewalks, flower pots, and benches designed to be consistent with the historic Art Deco style of the buildings. 

Historic Downtown
One highlight is Spencer’s historically significant downtown district.  Much of this area was rebuilt after a disastrous fire in 1931.  As a result of remarkable community efforts after the fire, two-thirds of the downtown commercial buildings in existence today were constructed in the Art Deco style.  In 2004, Spencer’s business district was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. A downtown walking tour reveals its artistic and historical treasures.

Cultural District
Spencer has a proud tradition of offering quality cultural and arts events.  In 2004, a group of citizens with a common interest in sustaining and developing Spencer as a cultural center formed the Spencer Alliance for a Creative Economy (SPACE).  Their collaboration resulted in downtown Spencer being designated as a Cultural District in Iowa.  Its strength as a cultural center makes Spencer an inviting place to live.

Quality of Life
Spencer has much to offer to individuals and families searching to find a community with excellent quality of life.  Examples of available community resources include:

• Top-notch schools
• State-of-the-art health-care facilities
• Abundant recreational opportunities
• Great parks-and-trails system
• Attractive neighborhoods
• Dynamic industrial park
• Supportive governmental and municipal services
• Wide array of retail shopping establishments
• Variety of churches
• Accessible transportation options

Spencer is committed to creating a diverse cultural environment that appeals to a variety of people.  A single visit to Spencer will convince you that this is the ideal place to live and call home.