Visit & Experience Ankeny Attractions
Experience Ankeny’s Exceptional Entertainment
As a city that has carried the honor of being a Playful City USA community, Ankeny has a lot to offer in the way of entertainment.
Lodging
When it comes to where to stay in Ankeny there are lots of options. Ankeny has a variety of hotels and motels to fit your travel style.
Recreation
The City of Ankeny has 40 parks and over 40 miles of trails to explore. To find more information about park locations and trail maps, use the City of Ankeny’s Park Locator Map and view their Trail Map.
Ankeny has an amazing mixture of events and entertainment for our residents and visitors. The Ankeny Community Chorus, Ankeny Art Center, Ankeny Community Theatre and Ankeny Area Historical Society make up just a few of our arts groups in Ankeny.
Outdoor entertainment is abundant in Ankeny. We have two aquatic centers, several golf courses, and an annual summer festival!
Dining
Whether you are craving sushi or ribs, Ankeny has got you covered. Explore our list of restaurants to see what will please your palate. If you are seeking catering services or event facilities, Ankeny can accommodate.
Are you looking for a place to grab a cup of coffee? Ankeny has coffee shops that are a great place to meet with friends or hold meetings.
Transportation
Ankeny is home to approximately 60,000 residents. Nearly 70 percent of residents use the convenient interstate to travel to Des Moines or Ames for employment each day. There are four interstate exchanges to conveniently connect residents to the interstate each day. Ankeny residents have the opportunity to take advantage of the Park and Ride option in coordination with Des Moines Area Regional Transportation (DART). Residents can park in one of the three lots in Ankeny and relax in a modern bus on their way to work each day. Flights are easy to come by as well, with a local airport nearby and the Des Moines International Airport just 30 minutes south.
Shopping
Ankeny boasts many unique boutiques, specialty shops, and the big box stores you are looking for. No need to drive to the mall, Ankeny’s shopping selection has a variety of options.
Uptown Ankeny is a neat section of town to explore as well. This historical section of Ankeny features shops, restaurants, bars, and business services.