The Ankeny center is about 5 miles east of Saylorville Lake and 5 miles north of Zoo Lounge.
As in much of the Midwest, Ankeny enjoys the most beautiful and comfortable weather during spring and fall. Summers get hot and humid, and winters bring a deluge of snow as well as those inconvenient icy streets. Shoot for April and May if you're looking forward to a spring vacation. You'll see the Iowa flora in mid-bloom, which makes all the outdoor spaces more beautiful, and daytime temperatures will hover in the mid-70s. Pack a sweater or jacket for the evenings so you don't get too chilly.
If you're thinking about an autumn visit, book your hotel reservations for September or October. The fall foliage will have dressed the town in beautiful shades of gold and crimson, and the slight nip in the air will get you in the mood for the holidays to come. Spend time both indoors and out to take advantage of all this town has to offer.
Tourism peaks during the summer months, which means you'll have to fight crowds when you want to visit an entertainment venue or tourist attraction. Plus, hotel rates increase during this time of year. However, it's still a better time to visit than winter; from November through February, hotel rates drop like stones, but the bitter weather will force you to stay inside for your entire visit.
You can save money on your Ankeny vacation or business trip if you take advantage of hotel discounts. For instance, many of the chain hotels will strip a few dollars off your bill if you're a member of AAA, CAA, or AARP. The Days Inn, Super 8, and Best Western locations in this town all feature this benefit. You can also score a discount if you're over the age of 55 at Ankeny hotels. Just show your identification when you check in.
Many Ankeny hotels offer significant value thanks to their plentiful amenities and low prices. Start with the Super 8 Ankeny / Des Moines Area, for instance. Room rates start between $69 and $89 per night, depending on the season. You'll gain access to amenities like free breakfast in the mornings, an indoor heated pool, free high-speed internet access, and free parking. It's also ideal if you're hauling an RV or trailer on your trip because the venue offers ample parking for large rigs.
Whether it's your first or 10th visit to Ankeny, you'll never run out of things to do. If the kids are tagging along on this trip, plan an itinerary that will keep them busy — and wear them out so they'll fall asleep once you get back to the hotel.
Start at the Adventureland Amusement Park in nearby Des Moines. Take the kids on as many rides and roller coasters as they can stomach, and don't forget to grab a bucket of buttery popcorn at one of the many food stands. After you finish at Adventureland, head to West Side Park. You could also walk the stylish High Trestle Trail or take a tour of the Ankeny Art Center. You won't want to miss the Saylorville Recreation Area, either, especially if your kids enjoy swimming, fishing, and hiking.
A visit to Ankeny, Iowa, never disappoints. Pack your bags and choose one of the above hotels today.
Below are reviews of the city of Ankeny, IA from an actual visitor's perspective.
The food in Ankenny is amazing.. especially Slim Chickens!
It's a very nice city. There's a lot to explore if I had more time.
Easy to get around. Many places to shop and eat close by the hotel.
Lots of options. Easy to get around.
The boutiques and restaurants were within walking distance.
The boutiques and restaurants within walking distance.
Applebee's just down the street has huge magaritas!
The hotel was clean, and the room were clean and comfortable. Great town
The eating establishments!
We loved our classes and visit at the Faith Baptist Bible College!
The hotel is close to shopping and restaurants.
Visiting with friends and the farmers market
Centrally located to restaurants and shops.
Excellent Stay. Awesome Shopping Areas & Eating Areas. 😊
We like Ankeny lots to do there and see.
The city has a great variety of stores and restaurants, including a ballpark.