Ankeny, Iowa Travel Guide

Discover Ankeny, Iowa: A blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, perfect for exploring local culture, outdoor activities, and vibrant community events.

Ankeny, nestled in the heart of Iowa, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. This city is known for its friendly atmosphere, making it an inviting place for tourists. With a rich history and a growing community, Ankeny has something for everyone. Visitors can explore the vibrant Uptown Ankeny area, where local shops and eateries provide a taste of the region's culture. The High Trestle Trail, a popular destination, is perfect for biking enthusiasts and offers stunning views, especially at night when the bridge lights up. For those interested in history and culture, the Ankeny Area Historical Society Museum provides a glimpse into the city's past. The city also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, ensuring that there is always something exciting happening. Whether you're looking to relax in a park, enjoy local cuisine, or engage in outdoor activities, Ankeny is a destination that promises a memorable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ankeny.

Visit Uptown Ankeny for local shops, eateries, and a taste of the region's culture.
Rent a bike and explore the High Trestle Trail, especially beautiful at night.
Check the local calendar for events and festivals to enhance your visit.
Spend some time at the Ankeny Area Historical Society Museum to learn about the city's past.
Enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants to experience regional cuisine.

Explore Ankeny: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Ankeny

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Blank Park Zoo

Explore Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa - a family-friendly destination with diverse wildlife, interactive exhibits, and beautiful gardens.

4.5

Breakout Games - Des Moines

Experience thrill and teamwork at Breakout Games - Des Moines, where escape room adventures await for families, friends, and corporate groups.

4.9

Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Explore Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a stunning outdoor gallery in Downtown Des Moines showcasing contemporary art amidst beautiful landscapes.

4.6

Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Discover the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a stunning outdoor gallery of contemporary sculptures in downtown Des Moines, Iowa, where art meets nature.

4.6

Best landmarks in Ankeny

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Jethro’s BBQ n’ LakeHouse

Experience the ultimate barbecue adventure at Jethro's BBQ n' LakeHouse, where flavor meets fun in Ankeny, Iowa.

4.3

Wig & Pen Pizza Pub

Discover the ultimate pizza experience at Wig & Pen Pizza Pub in Ankeny, where craft beers and delicious pies await every visitor.

4.5

Big Creek State Park

Explore Big Creek State Park, Iowa's natural oasis for hiking, boating, and wildlife watching, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.

4.7

Leaning Tower of Pizza - Uptown Ankeny

Savor authentic Italian flavors at Leaning Tower of Pizza in Uptown Ankeny, where every slice tells a story of culinary delight.

4.6

Best restaurants in Ankeny

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Outback Steakhouse

Savor authentic Australian cuisine at Outback Steakhouse in Ankeny – where every meal feels like an adventure.

4.4

Main Street Cafe & Bakery

Experience delightful meals and freshly baked treats at Main Street Cafe & Bakery in Ankeny - a must-visit destination for families!

4.7

Waterfront Seafood Market Restaurant Ankeny

Discover the freshest seafood delights at Waterfront Seafood Market in Ankeny—where quality meets flavor.

4.4

Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant in Ankeny - vibrant flavors & welcoming ambiance await!

4.5

Best bars in Ankeny

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Whiskey River Ankeny

Experience the best of American cuisine and sports culture at Whiskey River Ankeny, a lively grill and bar perfect for all occasions.

3.9

Applebee's Grill + Bar

Discover a vibrant dining experience with American flavors at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Ankeny, Iowa, perfect for family meals and casual outings.

4.0

District 36 Wine Bar & Grille

Discover the exquisite flavors and elegant ambiance of District 36 Wine Bar & Grille in Ankeny, Iowa, where every meal is a celebration of fine dining.

4.3

Chicken Coop

Discover a delightful dining experience at Chicken Coop in Ankeny, Iowa, where grilled specialties and a welcoming atmosphere await your visit.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Ankeny

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Whiskey River Ankeny

Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious American grill cuisine at Whiskey River Ankeny, the perfect spot for food and sports lovers alike.

3.9

The Whiskey House and Bourbon Grill

Discover the perfect blend of American cuisine and an extensive whiskey selection at The Whiskey House and Bourbon Grill in Ankeny, Iowa.

4.2

Yankee Clipper

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill offerings at Yankee Clipper, a must-visit dining destination in Ankeny, Iowa.

4.5

Cabaret Sports Bar & Grille

Savor delicious American cuisine while enjoying live sports at Cabaret Sports Bar & Grille in Ankeny, Iowa.

4.2

Best shops in Ankeny

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Duluth Trading Company

Explore diverse men's and women's clothing at Duluth Trading Company, where quality meets unique style in Ankeny, Iowa.

4.6

Target

Discover Target Ankeny: Your Ultimate Shopping Destination for Clothing, Electronics, and Home Goods in Iowa.

4.2

T.J. Maxx

Explore T.J. Maxx in Ankeny, Iowa – your go-to destination for affordable fashion and unique home goods that cater to all styles and ages.

4.3

Ames Silversmithing

Explore Ames Silversmithing: a haven for handcrafted jewelry, expert appraisals, and unique designs in the heart of Iowa.

5.0

Explore Ankeny on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Ankeny, mapped for you.

Ankeny Essentials

Ankeny is located in Polk County, Iowa, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Des Moines International Airport (DSM), approximately 16 miles south of Ankeny. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare service to reach Ankeny. Interstate 35 runs directly through Ankeny, making it easily accessible by car. There are also bus services, such as Greyhound, that connect Des Moines with other major cities, and local transit options are available to reach Ankeny from Des Moines.
Ankeny offers several transportation options for getting around the city. The Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART) operates bus routes that connect Ankeny with Des Moines and other surrounding communities. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are available in Ankeny and at the Des Moines International Airport. Additionally, Ankeny is a bike-friendly community with several bike trails, making cycling a convenient option for short distances.
The official currency in Ankeny, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit places that do not accept cards.
Ankeny is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Ankeny does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. For the latest crime statistics and safety information, you can contact the Ankeny Police Department.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Ankeny has several medical facilities, including UnityPoint Health - Ankeny Medical Park, which provides urgent care services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in Ankeny where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Casual attire is generally acceptable in most places. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and traditions. While Ankeny is not particularly religiously conservative, it is always polite to show respect when visiting places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to other passengers. Avoid loud conversations or playing music without headphones. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Midwesterners are known for their friendliness. Eating & Drinking: Do try local restaurants and cuisines. Ankeny has a variety of dining options. Don't forget to tip your server, as tipping is customary in the United States.
To experience Ankeny like a local, consider visiting the Ankeny Market & Pavilion (AMP) during the summer months, where you can enjoy the farmers' market and various community events. Explore the High Trestle Trail, a popular biking and walking trail that offers scenic views, especially at night when the iconic High Trestle Trail Bridge is illuminated. For a unique dining experience, visit some of the local breweries and restaurants that offer a taste of the local flavor. Engage with the locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share tips and recommendations.

When is the best time to visit Ankeny?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Ankeny

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Ankeny. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [please/yur wel-cum]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [ex-kyoos me/sor-ee]
- How are you?How're ya doin?
  [hawr yuh doo-in]
- Fine. And you?Good. And you?
  [good. and yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI dunno
  [eye duh-noh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
  [kan eye see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [eye dun eat meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay, please
  [kan eye pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get outta here!
  [get out-uh here]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [eye'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [eye'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [eye wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingI'm just lookin
  [eye'm just look-in]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
- That's too expensiveThat's too much
  [thats too much]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya make it cheaper?
  [kan yuh make it chee-per]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thur-tee]
- MorningMorning
  [mor-ning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kan yuh show me on the map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

History of Ankeny

Ankeny, Iowa, was officially founded in 1875 by John Fletcher Ankeny, a prominent businessman and politician. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sauk and Meskwaki. The arrival of settlers in the mid-19th century marked the beginning of Ankeny's transformation from a rural area to a thriving community.
In the late 19th century, the construction of the Chicago and North Western Railway played a pivotal role in Ankeny's development. The railroad provided crucial transportation links for agricultural products, fostering economic growth and attracting new residents to the area.
The discovery of coal in the early 20th century brought a significant economic boom to Ankeny. Coal mining became one of the primary industries, with numerous mines operating in and around the town. This period saw a surge in population and infrastructure development.
During World War II, Ankeny was home to the Ankeny Ordnance Plant, which produced ammunition for the war effort. The plant employed thousands of workers and played a critical role in the local economy. After the war, the facility was repurposed for various industrial uses, including the manufacturing of John Deere equipment.
The post-war era saw Ankeny transition into a suburban community with rapid population growth. The expansion of residential areas, schools, and commercial centers transformed Ankeny into a bustling suburb of Des Moines. This period laid the foundation for the modern city of Ankeny.
Ankeny is home to Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), which opened its Ankeny campus in 1968. The presence of DMACC has significantly contributed to the city's educational and cultural development. The college offers a wide range of programs and has become a vital part of the community.
In recent decades, Ankeny has continued to experience growth and development. The city boasts a vibrant economy, excellent schools, and a high quality of life. Ankeny has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, attracting new businesses and residents alike. The city's commitment to parks, recreational facilities, and community events fosters a strong sense of community and cultural identity.