Laura A. Ward Park: A Community Oasis
Escape to nature in Urbandale's Laura A. Ward Park: trails, pond, art, and community spirit await!
Laura A. Ward Park in Urbandale, Iowa, is a well-maintained nine-acre park offering a serene escape with a pond, trails, picnic spots, and public art. It's a local favorite for recreation and relaxation, named in honor of Laura A. Ward, a long-time Urbandale resident.
A brief summary to Laura A. Ward Park
- 3900 NW Urbandale Dr, Urbandale, Iowa, 50322, US
- +1515-278-3963
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for softer light, milder temperatures, and fewer crowds.
- Check the Urbandale Parks and Recreation website for upcoming community events and concerts held at the park.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's many picnic tables.
Getting There
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Walking
From the intersection of NW 100th Street and Urbandale Drive, head east on NW Urbandale Drive for approximately 0.3 miles. The park will be on your left. The walk is mostly flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.
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Public Transport
The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) serves Urbandale. Several bus routes have stops near Laura A. Ward Park. From the Merle Hay Road and Douglas Avenue, take the local route 74. Get off at NW Urbandale Dr & NW Aurora Ave. From there, walk 0.1 miles east to the park. A single ride fare is $1.75.
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Driving
From downtown Urbandale, head north on 86th Street. Turn west onto Urbandale Drive. Continue for approximately 2 miles. The park entrance will be on your right. Parking is available at the park. There are no tolls on this route. Limited parking is available, especially during peak hours.
Discover more about Laura A. Ward Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Laura A. Ward Park
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Escape to nature in Urbandale's Laura A. Ward Park: trails, pond, art, and community spirit await!
Pied Piper Studios
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Pepsicola Beverages Co, Urbandale, IA
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Tsing Tsao West
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Douglas Park Apartments
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Signarama Urbandale, IA
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Goodwill of Central Iowa
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Iowa Orchard
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Verti-GO Athletics
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Changing Places
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John Boyt Industrial Sewing
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100th St. Corner Cafe
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Hungry Boyz
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Extended Stay America - Des Moines - Urbandale
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Walker Johnston Softball Complex
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park and Garden
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Get Air Trampoline Park
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Breakout Games - Des Moines
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Living History Farms
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Paragon Prairie Tower
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Des Moines Children's Museum
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Terra Park
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Ashby Park
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Iowa Gold Star Military Museum
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Taste of the Junction Music Festival
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The Operating Room West Des Moines
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Des Moines Art Center
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Essential places to dine
Tito's Lounge
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Wendy's
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Pancheros Mexican Grill - Urbandale
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Hy-Vee Market Grille
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Hy-Vee Chinese
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Wahlburgers @ Hy-Vee
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Urbandale Clubhouse And Restaurant
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VIVA Mexican Restaurant
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B-Bop's
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Cancun Grill And Cantina
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The Urban Grill
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Culver’s
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The Beerhouse
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Storey Kenworthy
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Jesse's Place Shopping Center
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Enchantasys
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Konark Grocers
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Terri's Frame Shop & Art
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Hensley's Big and Tall Outfitters
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EveryStep Giving Tree Thrift Store
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Elsmore Swim Shop
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Denny's Gift Den
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Target
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Target Grocery
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Stacey's Bridal, Prom & Formalwear
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Flying Moose
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Tapz Pub
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Cottontail Lounge
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Finn's Pub
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Stormy's
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The Ridgemont
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The Keg Stand
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Plaza Pub
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Kathy's Irish Pub
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Bradley's Inc
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Smoking Goat Pub
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