Things To Do
in Waukee

Waukee is a city located in Dallas County in the state of Iowa, United States. It is a rapidly growing suburb of Des Moines, known for its family-friendly community and excellent schools. Residents enjoy a blend of suburban amenities and easy access to urban attractions in nearby Des Moines.

Waukee is also home to many parks, recreational facilities, and community events, making it a desirable place to live for people of all ages.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
  • Coffee: $3 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Waukee Parks
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk at the Waukee Greenbelt Trail. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and morning birds singing as you stretch your legs.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local café, then head to Centennial Park for a picnic. You can enjoy the playground or relax by the pond.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a visit to the local farmers market. Pick up some fresh produce and enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere.

day 2
Cultural Day in Waukee
morning
:

Visit the Waukee Public Library to explore its collection and events. It's a great place to unwind with a good book or attend a workshop.

afternoon
:

Check out the local art galleries showcasing regional works. This is a chance to appreciate the creativity that thrives in the community.

evening
:

Attend a cultural event or performance at the Waukee High School Auditorium. Enjoy the talents of local artists and students.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Strong community engagement and a family-friendly environment
  • Good access to parks, recreational facilities, and outdoor activities
  • Growing economy with job opportunities in various sectors
  • Highly rated schools and educational facilities
  • Relatively low cost of living compared to urban areas
  • Safe neighborhoods with low crime rates
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Cold winters with significant snowfall
  • Fast-paced development may lead to growing traffic congestion
  • Less cultural diversity compared to larger cities
  • Fewer entertainment and dining options than bigger metropolitan areas
  • Risk of suburban sprawl affecting local environment

Best Activities in Waukee

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Sugar Creek Golf Course

Enjoy a round of golf in a beautiful natural setting at Sugar Creek Golf Course in Waukee.

Centennial Park

Explore the walking trails, playgrounds, and open spaces at Centennial Park for outdoor recreational activities in Waukee.

Raccoon River Valley Trail

Embark on a biking or hiking adventure along the scenic Raccoon River Valley Trail, which passes through Waukee and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Tours

Uncover the best of Waukee with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Waukee

Visit one of these nice places.

Centennial Park

Offers scenic views and photo opportunities with its picturesque lake and walking trails.

Sugar Creek Golf Course

Features beautiful greenery and golf course landscapes for stunning photo opportunities.

Beaver Creek Natural Resource Area

Provides opportunities for capturing natural beauty and wildlife in a peaceful setting.

Food in Waukee

Waukee offers a diverse food scene that reflects classic American cuisine as well as a blend of international flavors. Visitors can explore a variety of locally-owned eateries and experience the unique culinary offerings of the area.

Waukee Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

A local favorite, this dish features a breaded and fried pork tenderloin served on a bun with traditional toppings. Recommended spots to try include 1908 Draught House and The Whiskey House & Bourbon Grill.

Must-Try!

Iowa Sweet Corn

During the summer months, indulge in the fresh and sweet Iowa sweet corn, often available at local farmers' markets and roadside stands across Waukee.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Waukee better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Waukee Farmers' Market

Held during the warmer months, the Waukee Farmers' Market showcases a wide array of locally grown produce, artisanal products, and ready-to-eat treats. It's a great place to sample fresh, seasonal flavors and support local vendors.

Weather

The climate in this area is classified as humid continental, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are typically cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing and occasional snowfall. Summers tend to be warm to hot, with temperatures frequently reaching the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (30-35°C) and higher humidity levels. Spring brings a gradual warming with frequent rainfall, making it a vital time for vegetation growth. Fall sees a cooling trend with beautiful foliage as leaves change colors. Overall, the region experiences moderate to heavy precipitation throughout the year, making it suitable for a variety of agricultural activities. Severe weather, including thunderstorms and tornadoes, can occur, particularly in the spring and summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Waukee, it is important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close or touching someone without permission.

Courtesy in public places

It is valued to use polite language, hold doors open for others, and show consideration for the people around you in public places.

Respect for diversity

Waukee embraces diversity, and it is important to show respect for people of different cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and lifestyles.

Safety

Safety in Waukee is generally regarded as high, making it an appealing place for families and individuals. The community benefits from a low crime rate, which contributes to the feeling of security among residents. Local law enforcement is proactive and engaged with the community, often organizing events and initiatives to promote public safety and awareness. Emergency services, including police, fire departments, and medical responders, are well-equipped and trained to handle various situations. The city also invests in programs aimed at crime prevention and community engagement, fostering a collaborative environment between residents and local authorities. Moreover, Waukee's neighborhoods are oriented toward safety, with well-maintained public spaces and a community-focused atmosphere that encourages residents to look out for one another. Overall, Waukee presents itself as a safe and welcoming environment for all its residents.

Tipping in Waukee

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is customary in the United States, including Waukee. It is common to tip 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressing and taxi rides.

Payment

In Waukee, as in the rest of the United States, payment is primarily done using credit or debit cards, with cash being accepted as well. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular, and mobile payment apps are widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit Waukee. Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make for a pleasant visit. Expect a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere.

Summer

Warm and sunny weather with plenty of outdoor activities. Expect lively community events and festivals during this time.

Fall

Beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures. Expect fall festivals, pumpkin patches, and harvest-related events.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. Expect cozy indoor activities and holiday-related events.

Waukee at Night

Waukee's nightlife offers a blend of cozy local bars, casual dining spots, and family-friendly entertainment options. Though smaller in scale compared to metropolitan areas, the town provides a charming and inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors to unwind in the evenings. You'll find several local pubs and bars where craft beer enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of brews, often accompanied by live music or trivia nights. Restaurants in Waukee cater to a range of tastes, from American comfort food to international cuisine, making it easy to find a place to enjoy a relaxed dinner before heading out for the night. For those looking for a more laid-back evening, community events such as outdoor concerts, movie nights, and seasonal festivals often provide entertainment under the stars. Families and friends can gather at these events to share experiences and create lasting memories. While Waukee may not boast the extensive nightlife offerings of a major city, its intimate and friendly atmosphere ensures a pleasant evening for those who appreciate a slower-paced, community-oriented environment.

Hiking in Waukee

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kettlestone Park

A local park featuring walking trails and natural scenery, perfect for a short hike or walk.

Hansen Woods Park

Offers trails that meander through wooded areas, providing a peaceful hiking experience close to nature.

Grotto Park

Includes a scenic trail and beautiful views, suitable for a relaxing hike with family and friends.

Raccoon River Park

Features extensive trails and a large park area, ideal for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature.

Gray's Lake Park

Offers paved and natural trails around a serene lake, perfect for hiking and enjoying water views.

Pioneer Park

A local park with well-maintained trails, great for hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Aiports

How to reach Waukee by plane.

Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

The closest major airport to Waukee, located approximately 15 miles southeast of Waukee, this airport offers numerous domestic and a few international flights.

Kansas City International Airport (MCI)

Located about 190 miles south of Waukee, this airport serves a wide range of domestic and international destinations.

O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

Situated approximately 330 miles northeast of Waukee, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering extensive international travel options.

Midway International Airport (MDW)

Located around 335 miles northeast of Waukee, Midway primarily serves domestic flights but has several international routes as well.

Walkability

Walkability refers to how friendly an area is to walking, encompassing factors like the presence of sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, street connectivity, and proximity to amenities. In the context of a suburban area like Waukee, this can be influenced by residential development patterns, access to parks, schools, shopping, and community spaces. Waukee features a mix of suburban neighborhoods, many of which are designed with single-family homes and often include parks and recreational areas. While some parts of the town may provide good access to local amenities through walkable paths and sidewalks, other areas might be more car-dependent due to the layout and distance between destinations. Community planners have been focusing on improving walkability in recent years, aiming to enhance pedestrian routes and connectivity. This includes efforts to create safe crossing areas, improve sidewalk conditions, and develop mixed-use areas that encourage walking to shops, cafes, and other services. Overall, while some neighborhoods may offer pleasant walking experiences, the level of walkability can vary significantly throughout the area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White

The largest demographic group in Waukee, representing a significant majority of the population.

Hispanic or Latino

This group has been growing in numbers and represents a notable percentage of the community.

Black or African American

A smaller but important demographic contributing to the diversity of Waukee.

Asian

This group includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds and is part of the multicultural fabric of Waukee.

Two or more races

An increasingly recognized demographic group reflecting the diversity of the population.

Other races

Includes individuals from different races not distinctly categorized in the main groups.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a widely popular sport in Waukee, with many local schools having competitive teams and community leagues.

Football

American football enjoys a significant following, especially at the high school level, with games being major community events.

Soccer

Soccer has been growing in popularity, with many youth leagues and community clubs offering programs for players of all ages.

Baseball/Softball

Baseball and softball are popular summer sports in Waukee, with local leagues attracting many participants and spectators.

Track and Field

Track and field is a significant part of the school athletic programs, with students participating in various events throughout the spring season.

Golf

Golf is a favored recreational activity in Waukee, with several courses available for both casual and competitive play.

Traffic

Traffic in this suburban area typically experiences peak congestion during the morning and evening rush hours, as residents commute to nearby cities for work. The roadways are generally well-maintained, with major thoroughfares providing access to local amenities and neighboring communities. During weekdays, the volume of vehicles increases significantly, leading to slower travel times on main roads. On weekends, traffic patterns can change, often becoming busier around shopping centers and recreational areas. Public transportation options are limited, leading most residents to rely on personal vehicles for their daily commutes. Overall, while congestion may occur during peak times, the traffic is usually manageable outside those hours. Expansion projects and developments are ongoing to accommodate the growing population and improve traffic flow.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Waukee.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many eateries in Waukee offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, with options like veggie burgers, salads, and plant-based alternatives. Notable places include Fresh Mediterranean Express and 3C's Coffee Cup Cafe.

Gluten-Free Options

Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating dishes at various restaurants in Waukee. For gluten-free fare, consider dining at places like The Waterfront Seafood Market and Mickey's Irish Pub.

Healthcare

Located in the state of Iowa, the healthcare system in this suburban community offers a variety of services and facilities to meet the needs of its residents. The area benefits from proximity to larger urban centers, such as Des Moines, which enhances access to specialized medical care. Local healthcare providers include a range of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care clinics. Residents have options for family medicine, pediatrics, and various specialties, ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage. There are also several pharmacies and wellness centers that contribute to preventive care and health education. In addition to outpatient services, there are partnerships with hospitals located in nearby cities, providing access to more advanced medical care, emergency services, and specialized treatments. The community emphasizes preventive healthcare and wellness, with resources available for fitness, nutrition, and mental health support. Overall, the healthcare landscape is designed to cater to the health and wellness needs of residents, promoting a community-oriented approach to medicine and access to care.

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