Things To Do
in Urbandale

Urbandale, located in Iowa, is a vibrant suburban community that offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and a friendly small-town atmosphere. Known for its beautiful parks and recreational facilities, it caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The city boasts a diverse population and a rich cultural scene, providing residents and visitors with various activities and events throughout the year.

With close proximity to Des Moines, Urbandale combines the benefits of suburban living with easy access to city attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Urbandale Park, where you can enjoy a morning stroll and take in the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Head to the Urbandale Public Library to explore local art exhibitions followed by lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Finish the day with dinner at a local steakhouse and a movie at the nearby theater.

day 2
Day 2: Fun and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local diner, then visit the Living History Farms to learn about Iowa's agricultural history.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Urbandale Community Aquatic Center or enjoy a round of golf at the local golf course.

evening
:

Enjoy live music at a local bar or pub, and savor some craft beers from a nearby brewery.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza$12
🏨Hotel Night$100
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of parks and activities.
  • Close proximity to Des Moines for additional attractions.
  • Rich cultural events and community engagement.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Weather can be harsh in winter.
  • Public transport is limited, making a car necessary.

Places to Visit in Urbandale

Visit one of these nice places.

Urbandale Parks

Beautifully landscaped parks provide stunning backdrops of nature and outdoor activities.

Living History Farms

This outdoor museum showcases historical farms and offers picturesque settings for photography.

The City Skyline

Capture the iconic skyline of nearby Des Moines from various vantage points in Urbandale.

Culinary Guide

Food in Urbandale

Urbandale offers an exciting culinary scene with a mix of traditional and modern flavors, perfect for every palate.

Urbandale Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

A classic Midwestern dish featuring a breaded and fried pork tenderloin served on a bun.

Must-Try!

Sweet Corn Casserole

A local favorite, this dish blends sweet corn with creamy ingredients for a comforting side.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Urbandale Farmers Market

A vibrant market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Urbandale has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are warm to hot, with temperatures in the 80s and 90s°F. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and are popular for outdoor activities and festivals.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Midwesterners are known for their friendliness; greetings and small talk are common.

Respect for Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable distance during conversations and be mindful of personal space.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued in both social and professional settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Urbandale is generally a safe city with a low crime rate. However, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services are readily available, and the local police department is approachable and helpful.

Tipping in Urbandale

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It’s customary to tip service staff around 15-20% for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments are becoming increasingly common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy blooming flowers and moderate weather, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Expect warm temperatures, perfect for swimming, outdoor dining, and community events.

Fall

Witness stunning fall foliage, and partake in harvest festivals and apple picking.

Winter

Prepare for cold weather and snow, providing opportunities for winter sports and festive celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Urbandale at Night

Urbandale's nightlife is laid-back yet vibrant, with several bars and pubs offering live music, karaoke, and trivia nights. Many venues feature local craft beers and seasonal cocktails, making it a great place to unwind. The atmosphere is friendly, often attracting families and young adults alike, and events vary throughout the week.

Hiking in Urbandale

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Great Western Trail

A multi-use trail that runs through Urbandale, perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring nature.

High Trestle Trail

A scenic trail that offers beautiful views and is ideal for hiking and cycling, stretching through rural Iowa.

Airports

How to reach Urbandale by plane.

Des Moines International Airport

Located about 10 miles from Urbandale, this airport offers domestic flights and is the main gateway for air travel in the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Urbandale is a suburban city with a moderate level of walkability. While some neighborhoods have sidewalks and parks within walking distance, others may require a car to access amenities. Overall, it's best to plan for some driving to explore the city fully.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A significant portion of the population consists of families drawn to the area's schools and recreational facilities.

Young Professionals

Many young adults are attracted to Urbandale for its job opportunities and proximity to the urban amenities of Des Moines.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

High school and college football are very popular, with many local teams enjoying community support.

Baseball

Summer baseball leagues and local teams attract fans, especially during the warm months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Urbandale is generally manageable, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation options are limited but include bus services connecting to Des Moines. Biking and walking are common in neighborhoods with adequate infrastructure.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Urbandale.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants provide vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus ahead of time.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries offer gluten-free options, especially in cafes and health-focused restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Urbandale has access to several healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Major healthcare providers in the area are known for their quality services, and emergency care is readily available. Health insurance is recommended for residents and visitors seeking medical attention.

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