Johnston, Iowa is located in the heart of Polk County and close to downtown Des Moines. This vibrant city offers plenty of history as well as many sights that you won’t want to miss.
As one of the oldest incorporated towns in Iowa, Johnston carries a rich history with it. The first settlers arrived here in 1846 and chose its name after an early settler named Alexander Johnston who had moved from Virginia during his travels westward. As time passed, the town grew quickly due to its location on the railway line between Council Bluffs and Des Moines. Today, there are still many historical buildings around town that reflect this period of growth and development; such as old churches, former train depots, and Victorian homes dating back to 1889.
For those looking for something more modern but no less exciting, Johnston boasts numerous parks and trails where you can explore nature or have fun outdoors with friends and family. There are also several cultural institutions like museums that feature interesting exhibits about local history or events throughout the year showcasing music performances and film screenings.