Things To Do
in Ankeny
Ankeny is a city located in central Iowa, United States. It is known for its family-friendly community, strong school system, and low crime rates. The city offers a mix of suburban living with easy access to urban amenities in nearby Des Moines.
Ankeny's growing population and thriving economy make it a popular choice for residents seeking a high quality of life.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at the High Trestle Trail, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air. Grab a coffee from the local café afterward to fuel your morning.
Visit the Ankeny Market & Pavilion for some local food truck options for lunch. Take a stroll through the nearby park to digest and enjoy the greenery.
Unwind at the Ankeny Art Center, exploring local exhibits and creations. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant, sampling the local cuisine.
Begin with a visit to a local coffee shop to savor a specialty brew while reading a book. It's a great way to set a relaxed pace for your day.
Head to the Ankeny Public Library for engaging events or simply to browse the books. Enjoy lunch in the library’s café for a cozy experience.
Visit your favorite local restaurant for a hearty dinner while supporting community business. End the day with a leisurely walk around one of Ankeny’s charming neighborhoods.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong community engagement and activities
- Good school systems and educational opportunities
- Low crime rates contributing to safety
- Growing economy with various job opportunities
- Pleasant parks and recreational facilities
- Rapid growth can lead to increased traffic and congestion
- Higher cost of living compared to some surrounding areas
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Weather can be extreme, particularly in winter months
- Potential for agricultural development to encroach on residential areas
Best Activities in Ankeny
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the scenic trail and impressive bridge over the Des Moines River
Offers opportunities for boating, fishing, picnicking, and birdwatching
A challenging and well-maintained golf course with picturesque surroundings
Tours
Uncover the best of Ankeny with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ankeny
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic bridge with scenic views of the Des Moines River Valley and unique lighting at night.
Offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding natural landscapes, popular for outdoor photography.
Features open fields and parkland, ideal for capturing the beauty of the natural environment.
Food in Ankeny
Ankeny Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Iowa specialty, this breaded and deep-fried pork tenderloin sandwich is a must-try. Seek out local diners and cafes like Jethro's BBQ for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
Produced in nearby Newton, this internationally acclaimed blue cheese is a local treasure. Sample it at specialty cheese shops or incorporate it into dishes at upscale restaurants like The Fletcher Kitchen & Bar.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ankeny better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open from May to September, this vibrant market offers an array of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. Don't miss food stalls selling local delicacies.
Every Friday evening during the summer, the Ankeny Market & Pavilion hosts Food Truck Fridays, featuring a variety of cuisines from local food trucks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ankeny, it's important to respect people's personal space and always maintain an appropriate physical distance when interacting with others.
Being punctual is valued in Ankeny, so it's respectful to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings.
Ankeny is a diverse community, so it's important to show respect for people of different backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs.
Safety
Tipping in Ankeny
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Ankeny, United States, particularly in the service industry such as restaurants, bars, and hotels. The standard tipping rate for good service is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Ankeny, United States is generally accepted in various forms including cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses in Ankeny accept major credit cards, and contactless payment options are becoming increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities
Hot and sunny weather, perfect for outdoor recreation and festivals
Cooler temperatures, colorful foliage, and harvest festivals
Cold temperatures, occasional snowfall, and holiday events
Ankeny at Night
Hiking in Ankeny
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic 25-mile trail that showcases beautiful views, including the iconic High Trestle Trail Bridge.
A local park with several miles of trails, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
Offers multiple trails with lakefront views, ideal for hiking and bird watching.
Features trails through diverse landscapes, including forest and shoreline along Big Creek Lake.
Known for its stunning rock formations and scenic trails that offer both hiking and photography opportunities.
Aiports
How to reach Ankeny by plane.
The nearest major airport located approximately 12 miles southwest of Ankeny, offering a variety of domestic and international flights.
Located about 115 miles east of Ankeny, this airport serves the Cedar Rapids area and provides several domestic flights.
Situated around 190 miles southwest of Ankeny, this airport is a major hub for both domestic and international travel.
Located approximately 330 miles northeast of Ankeny, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering extensive international flight options.
About 250 miles northwest of Ankeny, this airport services the Twin Cities with numerous domestic and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Ankeny, often comprising a significant percentage of the population.
A growing demographic group in Ankeny, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A smaller but important demographic group, contributing to the community's diversity.
This demographic group includes a variety of nationalities and is part of Ankeny's expanding community.
An increasingly recognized demographic that reflects the blending of different racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Includes individuals from various racial backgrounds not classified in the primary groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a widely popular team sport in Ankeny, with many youth leagues and school teams participating at various levels.
Soccer has a strong following in Ankeny, with various youth organizations and local clubs fostering the sport at grassroots levels.
Baseball is a favorite pastime in Ankeny, featuring numerous leagues for children and adults, as well as school teams.
Football is a major sport in high schools in Ankeny, with a significant community following and support for local teams.
Softball is popular among both youth and adults in Ankeny, with many local leagues and recreational teams.
Volleyball is played at various levels in Ankeny, particularly in schools and local clubs, attracting many participants.
Track and field events are popular in schools and among local athletes, showcasing a range of athletic skills.
Golf is enjoyed by many in Ankeny, with several golf courses available for both casual and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ankeny.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries, including Cool Basil and Fong's Pizza, offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes alongside their regular menus.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options at restaurants like Cool Basil and Waterfront Seafood Market, where gluten-free items are clearly marked on the menu.