Things To Do
in Urbandale

Urbandale is a city located in central Iowa, United States. It is a vibrant and growing community with a strong economy and excellent schools. Residents of Urbandale enjoy a high quality of life with numerous parks, recreational facilities, and cultural attractions.

The city is known for its safe neighborhoods and friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
  • 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

day 1
Explore Urbandale
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk at the Urbandale City Park. Enjoy the natural beauty and the peaceful ambiance as you sip your morning coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the Living History Farms to learn about Iowa's agricultural history. Engage in interactive exhibits and explore the outdoor farm.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant downtown, savoring regional dishes. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll through the community's vibrant neighborhoods.

day 2
Nature Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at Walnut Creek Regional Park, surrounded by lush greenery and trails. Breathe in the fresh air and prepare yourself for a fun day.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and rest by the water at the park. Enjoy lunch while soaking in nature's beauty.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local brewery for some craft beers and live music. Enjoy the relaxed vibe and connect with locals.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly community with good schools and recreational facilities.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
  • Safe neighborhoods with low crime rates.
  • Diverse community with various cultural and recreational activities.
  • Easy access to parks, nature trails, and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities.
  • Harsh winter weather can be challenging for some residents.
  • Job market can be competitive, especially in specialized fields.
  • Public transportation options may be limited.
  • Less diversity in dining and shopping compared to metropolitan areas.

Best Activities in Urbandale

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Lions Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk, picnic, or sports activities in this scenic park

Greenbelt Park

Explore the beautiful trails for walking, running, or biking

Tours

Uncover the best of Urbandale with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Urbandale

Visit one of these nice places.

Walker Johnston Park

This park offers scenic views of ponds, wooded areas, and walking trails, providing plenty of photo opportunities.

Lions Park

Lions Park boasts a beautiful waterfall and picturesque landscapes, making it a great spot for capturing stunning photos.

Living History Farms

This living history museum has picturesque rural landscapes and historic buildings, offering unique photo opportunities.

Food in Urbandale

Urbandale, located in the United States, offers a diverse culinary experience with a blend of traditional American fare and international cuisines. Visitors can indulge in a variety of dishes ranging from classic comfort foods to innovative gastronomic creations.

Urbandale Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tenderloin Sandwich

A massive breaded pork tenderloin served on a bun, a beloved local favorite. It can be savored at Jethro's BBQ or The Beer House.

Must-Try!

Iowa Pork Chop

Grilled or breaded, this dish showcases the finest Iowa pork and can be enjoyed at Machine Shed Restaurant or Iowa Machine Shed.

Corn Dog

A quintessential fair food consisting of a hot dog coated in a thick layer of cornmeal batter and deep-fried, available at local fairs and festivals.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Urbandale better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Urbandale Farmers' Market

Hosted from May to September, the market offers fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat snacks showcasing local flavors.

Food Truck Fridays

Every Friday, food trucks gather at various locations in Urbandale, providing an array of street food options ranging from tacos and BBQ to gourmet desserts.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as humid continental, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters can be quite cold, with temperatures often falling below freezing and snow accumulation occurring frequently. The average high temperature in January typically hovers around the mid-30s°F (around 1-2°C), while nighttime lows can drop into the teens°F (-7 to -9°C). Spring sees a gradual warming, with temperatures rising and increased precipitation. By May, average highs are in the 70s°F (around 21-26°C), making it a pleasant time of year with blooming flowers and greenery. Summers are warm to hot, with average high temperatures in the 80s°F (about 27-32°C). Humidity can be significant, leading to discomfort on particularly hot days. Thunderstorms are common during this season. Fall brings cooler temperatures again, with beautiful foliage as trees shed their leaves. September highs are typically in the 70s°F, while by November, they drop to the 40s°F (around 4-10°C). Overall, precipitation is fairly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months generally occurring in late spring and early summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Urbandale, it is important to respect individuals' personal space and avoid invading it without permission.

Greetings and small talk

Greeting others with a smile and engaging in polite small talk is often culturally appreciated in Urbandale.

Respecting diversity

Urbandale is known for its diverse community, so it's important to respect and appreciate people from different cultural backgrounds.

Safety

Safety in the area can generally be characterized by its low crime rates compared to national averages, contributing to a sense of community and well-being among residents. Like many suburban areas, property crimes such as burglary and theft are more common than violent crimes, which tend to be relatively rare. The city has a proactive police department that engages with the community through various programs aimed at crime prevention and public safety education. Additionally, local residents often participate in neighborhood watch programs, further enhancing community vigilance. Emergency services, including fire and medical response teams, are well-equipped and responsive, often earning high ratings for their effectiveness. Parks and recreational areas are maintained with safety in mind, providing spaces for families and individuals to enjoy outdoor activities. Overall, the community prioritizes safety through both active engagement and responsive services, creating a supportive environment for its residents.

Tipping in Urbandale

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is a common practice in Urbandale, United States. It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, bars, and for other services such as taxi rides and haircuts.

Payment

Payment in Urbandale, United States is primarily done using credit/debit cards or cash. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also widely accepted at most businesses.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities

Summer

Warm weather, outdoor events, and festivals

Fall

Vibrant foliage, moderate temperatures, and harvest festivals

Winter

Cold weather, holiday events, and winter sports

Urbandale at Night

Despite its smaller size and suburban nature, nightlife in Urbandale offers a mix of laid-back venues and a few livelier spots for residents and visitors to enjoy. The city boasts several cozy bars and pubs, where you can find a good selection of craft beers, cocktails, and wines. These establishments often feature live music, trivia nights, and other social events that foster a sense of community. For those looking to dine out, Urbandale provides a variety of options ranging from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, where you can savor everything from classic American dishes to international cuisine. Many of these dining spots also offer outdoor seating, perfect for a relaxed evening. Additionally, if you’re willing to make a short drive, nearby Des Moines significantly amplifies your nightlife options with its vibrant downtown scene, featuring nightclubs, theaters, art galleries, and bustling street life. In essence, while Urbandale itself may have a more subdued nightlife, it serves as a pleasant starting point for exploring the broader, energetic offerings of the surrounding area.

Hiking in Urbandale

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yellow Banks Park

A scenic park offering trails along the Des Moines River, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

Jester Park

This park features a variety of trails through woodlands and alongside Saylorville Lake, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Gray's Lake Park

Located near downtown Des Moines, this park offers a loop trail around the lake, great for hiking and walking.

High Trestle Trail

A 25-mile-long trail that features stunning views and is popular for hiking as well as biking.

Ledges State Park

Offers rugged terrain and beautiful views, with a mix of hiking trails leading through unique rock formations.

Saylorville Lake Trail

A multi-purpose trail around Saylorville Lake, offering picturesque views and ample hiking opportunities.

Aiports

How to reach Urbandale by plane.

Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

The primary airport serving the Des Moines metropolitan area, located approximately 7 miles from Urbandale.

Kansas City International Airport (MCI)

An international airport located about 197 miles southwest of Urbandale, serving the Kansas City area.

O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

Located approximately 340 miles northeast of Urbandale in Chicago, Illinois, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world.

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)

Located about 250 miles north of Urbandale, this airport serves the double metropolitan area of Minneapolis and Saint Paul.

St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)

Situated around 220 miles southeast of Urbandale, this airport serves the greater St. Louis area.

Walkability

Walkability refers to how conducive an area is to walking, encompassing factors such as the presence of sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly streets, access to amenities, and overall safety. In many suburban areas, including Urbandale, this can vary widely based on the neighborhood layout, infrastructure, and community planning. In Urbandale, many neighborhoods are designed with residential areas that feature sidewalks and pathways connecting to parks and recreational facilities. The city has made efforts to create a friendly environment for pedestrians, with amenities such as schools, shopping centers, and dining options often reachable by foot within certain districts. However, like many suburbs, there may be areas where walkability is limited due to expansive roadways, lower density of services, and reliance on vehicles for transportation. Traffic patterns and safety concerns can also impact the desirability of walking in certain regions. Overall, while some parts of Urbandale are more walkable than others, enhancing walkability is a continuing focus for urban planners aiming to promote sustainability and community health.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White

The largest demographic group in Urbandale, comprising a significant majority of the population.

Hispanic or Latino

The second-largest demographic group, representing a growing and vibrant community.

Black or African American

A smaller but important demographic group contributing to the diversity of Urbandale.

Asian

An increasing demographic group that includes a variety of heritage and cultures.

Two or More Races

A demographic group representing individuals of mixed heritage, showcasing Urbandale's diversity.

American Indian or Alaska Native

A small percentage of the population that adds to the cultural fabric of Urbandale.

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

A very small demographic group representing individuals from Pacific Island backgrounds.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular team sport in Urbandale, attracting many youth and adult players, with various leagues and recreational programs.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played in Urbandale, with opportunities for both organized leagues and casual play at local parks and schools.

Baseball/Softball

Baseball and softball have a strong following, featuring youth leagues, adult recreational leagues, and community events centered around the sport.

Volleyball

Volleyball is popular among residents, with both indoor and outdoor (sand) leagues and recreational play available throughout the year.

Football

Football, particularly youth and high school teams, enjoys a spirited following in Urbandale, with local games drawing significant community support.

Traffic

Traffic in this suburban city located in Iowa can generally be characterized as moderate, with peaks during morning and evening rush hours. The road infrastructure supports a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas, leading to a balanced flow of vehicles throughout the day. Major thoroughfares connect to nearby cities, contributing to occasional congestion, particularly during peak commuting times. Public transportation options are available, but most residents rely on personal vehicles for their daily transportation needs. As a result, the traffic patterns can be influenced by local events, school schedules, and seasonal activities, which may lead to increased congestion in certain areas. Efforts to improve traffic flow include road maintenance, expansion projects, and the implementation of traffic management measures. Overall, while traffic can become busy at times, it typically remains manageable compared to larger urban centers.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Urbandale.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Urbandale provides various vegetarian-friendly options, with many restaurants offering creative and satisfying vegetarian dishes.

Vegan

While options are more limited, several establishments in Urbandale offer delicious vegan dishes and are accommodating to vegan dietary needs.

Gluten-Free

Visitors with gluten restrictions can find numerous gluten-free choices at local restaurants and cafes, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

Healthcare

In this suburban city, healthcare services are served primarily through a mix of community hospitals, clinics, and specialized care facilities. The area's healthcare system is equipped to handle a variety of needs, from primary care to specialized services such as pediatrics, orthopedics, and women's health. Local hospitals may offer emergency services, inpatient and outpatient care, and various medical specialties. Urbandale's proximity to larger urban centers also allows residents access to advanced medical facilities and specialist services that may not be available locally. Residents benefit from a range of healthcare providers, including family medicine practitioners, urgent care centers, and specialty clinics, ensuring that preventive care, routine check-ups, and acute medical issues can be addressed efficiently. Integration of telehealth services has become more prevalent, providing convenient options for patients to consult with healthcare professionals remotely. Overall, healthcare in this community emphasizes accessibility, patient-centered care, and a network of providers working together to address the needs of the population.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2024 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide