Things To Do
in Urbandale
Urbandale is a family-friendly suburb in the Des Moines metro area known for its parks, neighborhoods, and easy access to urban amenities. The city blends residential calm with retail and dining options, making it a convenient base for exploring central Iowa. Outdoor spaces and community events give it a welcoming, small-town feel while still being close to Des Moines’ cultural offerings.
Visitors will find a straightforward, walkable layout with plenty of green space and a generally cozy Midwestern vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a visit to the Urbandale Farmers Market, where you can mingle with local vendors and sample fresh produce. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a nearby café, sipping on locally brewed coffee while enjoying the morning sun. Take a stroll through the downtown area, appreciating the unique shops and vibrant street art.
Spend your afternoon at the Urbandale Public Library, engaging with interactive exhibits or participating in a workshop. Later, head to the nearby parks for a leisurely walk, enjoying nature's beauty and perhaps spotting some local wildlife. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the local art galleries showcasing the work of talented artists.
As the sun sets, choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, indulging in regional specialties and perhaps a glass of Iowa wine. Catch a live music performance or a theatrical production at a local venue, bringing the arts scene to life. End your day with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, taking in the stunning skyline views.
Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to Walnut Creek Regional Park for some outdoor exploration. Rent a bike or lace up your hiking boots to enjoy the scenic trails and beautiful landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse flora and fauna that call this park home.
After your morning adventure, relax by having a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon kayaking or canoeing on the calm waters of the creek, making sure to bring your camera to capture the serene moments. If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of some playful otters.
As evening falls, unwind with a barbecue dinner at one of the park’s picnic areas while watching the sunset create a canvas of colors across the sky. Engage in a fun game of frisbee or soccer with friends or family before the day comes to a close. Head back to town for some stargazing at a local observatory or simply gaze at the stars while reflecting on your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/latte | $3-5 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Family-friendly suburbs with lots of parks and green spaces
- Close proximity to Des Moines amenities and attractions
- Ease of driving with sensible traffic and good road access
- Accessible outdoor activities and nature close to the city
- Solid local dining options and farmers markets
- Nightlife is limited within Urbandale itself
- Public transit is more limited compared to big cities
- Some services and entertainment require a short drive into Des Moines
- Seasonal weather can impact outdoor plans
- Shopping and entertainment are spread across the metro area
Places to Visit in Urbandale
Visit one of these nice places.
Rich river views, wetlands, and forested trails provide classic nature photography opportunities, especially at golden hour.
Urban lake setting with skyline views, ducks, and walking/biking paths that create great sunset compositions.
Historic farmstead landscapes and period-accurate buildings offer rustic, editorial-style photos.
Parks and public spaces in Des Moines provide opportunities to shoot the city skyline across the river.
Food in Urbandale
Urbandale Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional classic featuring a thin, pounded pork cutlet breaded and fried, served on a bun with simple toppings.
Must-Try!
Fried or battered cheese curds common at pubs and casual eateries, great as a shareable snack.
Seasonal locally grown corn, often grilled or boiled and served with butter and salt.
A staple dessert in Iowa, typically served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
A rotating dish featuring locally sourced produce and proteins, reflecting the seasonality of Iowa farms.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market near the Capitol with local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods from regional vendors.
A smaller, community-oriented market in the Urbandale vicinity with fresh produce and baked goods during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Small talk is common; greet with a friendly hello or good morning. Use polite language and ushers when entering stores or restaurants.
Respect queues at markets and entrances; give people a bit of personal space in public areas.
Safety
Tipping in Urbandale
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tip approximately 15-20% at restaurants and bars; leave a smaller amount for counter service. Tipping for delivery and ride-share services is customary.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful for small purchases and markets. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Wallet) are increasingly common in shops and cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; pack layers and a light rain jacket for showers.
Warm to hot days; sun protection is essential, stay hydrated, and seek shade in the afternoons.
Pleasant temperatures and fall colors; ideal for outdoor photography and long walks.
Cold and potentially snowy; dress in warm layers and plan indoor activities as backup.
Urbandale at Night
Hiking in Urbandale
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic trails along the waterways with wildlife viewing opportunities.
A network of wooded trails ideal for longer hikes and photo opportunities.
Waterfront trails and open spaces suitable for day trips from Urbandale.
Airports
How to reach Urbandale by plane.
Main regional airport serving Urbandale and the Des Moines area, with domestic flights and convenient access by highway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of suburban families with good schools and park amenities.
Proximity to Des Moines offers career opportunities and community activities.
Quiet neighborhoods and accessible services appeal to retirees seeking a calmer pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A central part of local culture with high school and college games in the region.
Popular across schools and community leagues; opportunities to watch games locally.
Summer leagues and youth programs are common in parks and recreation facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Urbandale.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Urbandale and Des Moines area eateries offer vegetarian options. Look for veggie burgers, salads, grain bowls, and seasonal vegetable dishes; ask for customization if needed.