Ankeny Iowa Travel Guide

Ankeny is in Polk County, Iowa, where it is home to Des Moines Area Community College. Originally founded back in 1875, Ankeny really got its start as a coal mining town after the railroad from Des Moines went through Ankeny to Ames was completed. Today Ankeny is now a rapidly growing suburb just north of Des Moines.

Things to Do in Ankeny Iowa

Ankeny and Nearby Cedar Rapids provide numerous activities for the whole family to spend time together, relax, and unwind. There are several malls in nearby Cedar Rapids. There is ample opportunity for a good game of golf at one of the four nearby golf courses: Airport National Golf Course, The Ellis Park Course, Jones Golf Course, and the Twin Pines Golf Course provide hours of outdoor entertainment.

There are several museums in Ankeny as well as Cedar Rapids including Cedar Rapids Art Museum, and the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library where Czech and Slovak culture and social contributions are highlighted. There is also the African American Museum of Iowa, which is rated highly for its dedication to preserving, exhibiting, and teaching Iowa’s African American history.

Best Places to Stay in Ankeny Iowa

There are many vacation rentals in Ankeny. Some are located downtown, while others offer a bit more privacy and are located on the outskirts of the city. Regardless of location, all of Ankeny vacation homes are comfortable and luxurious, offering tons of space for entertaining family and friends. Guests have the chance to rent large homes with modern amenities, small cottages and single rooms within some of Ankeny most popular lodges.

Best Time to Visit Ankeny Iowa

Summers in Ankeny are typically warm and humid, while the winters are freezing, dry, and windy (as you would expect from the Midwest). Temperatures typically range from 16°F in the Winter to 86°F in the Summer. The most comfortable time of year to visit Ankeny is between early June to Mid September.