Laura A. Ward Park, Urbandale Travel Guide

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Escape to nature in Urbandale's Laura A. Ward Park: trails, pond, art, and community spirit await!

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Laura A. Ward Park

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
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Monday 6 am-10 pm
Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
Thursday 6 am-10 pm
Friday 6 am-10 pm
Saturday 6 am-10 pm
Sunday 6 am-10 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Laura A. Ward Park.

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.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Paragon Prairie Tower

Living History Farms

Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park and Garden

Urbandale Historical Society

Walker Johnston Park

Explore Laura A. Ward Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Laura A. Ward Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

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.
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.
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

Laura A. Ward Park, nestled in Urbandale, Iowa, offers a charming and accessible green space for residents and visitors alike. This nine-acre park, located on NW Urbandale Drive, provides a variety of amenities for recreation and relaxation.The park's defining feature is its tranquil pond, creating a focal point for peaceful reflection and wildlife observation. Visitors can often be seen feeding ducks or simply enjoying the calming presence of the water. Paved trails wind through the park, inviting walkers, joggers, and cyclists to explore the grounds. Picnic tables are scattered throughout, providing ideal spots for outdoor meals and gatherings. Public art installations add an element of visual interest and cultural enrichment to the park's landscape.Laura A. Ward Park is more than just a recreational space; it's a place where community events take place, fostering a strong sense of belonging. The park is named in tribute to Laura A. Ward, honoring her contributions to the Urbandale community. The park provides a well-equipped playground for children of all ages. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the exercise stations along the jogging trails. The park's landscape changes beautifully with the seasons, offering colorful blooms in spring and warm, golden hues in autumn.