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Urbandale

Urbandale, Iowa, United States

Discover Urbandale, Iowa: Where Small-Town Charm Meets Big-City Amenities Nestled just west of Des Moines, Urbandale, Iowa, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Don't let its close proximity to the capital city fool y…

#Suburban#Residential#Family-friendly#Safe#Midwest

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Urbandale.

Top Hotels in Urbandale

Top Flights to Urbandale

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Urbandale.

Tours

Living History Farms

Explore the historic and interactive outdoor museum showcasing Iowa's farm life over the decades.

Urbandale Public Library

A welcoming environment for reading, studying, and participating in community programs.

Shopping

Urbandale Farmers' Market

Visit the local farmers' market for fresh produce, homemade goods, and local crafts.

Valley West Mall

Shop at the Valley West Mall featuring a variety of stores and dining options.

Merle Hay Mall

A longstanding shopping destination offering an array of shops and entertainment options.

Outdoor

Walker Johnston Park

Enjoy outdoor activities such as walking trails, a skate park, and sports facilities in Urbandale's largest park.

Urbandale Indoor Swimming Pool

A family-friendly indoor swimming facility open year-round.

Beaver Creek Golf Course

Spend a day golfing at this well-maintained 18-hole public course.

Pumpkin Patch Park

A beautiful park perfect for picnics, walking, and enjoying nature.

Greenbelt Park

Enjoy walking and biking along the scenic trails of Greenbelt Park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Urbandale.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Urbandale, Iowa, United States is around 46,500.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Urbandale

Jan

-1°-10°

Feb

1°-8°

Mar

8°-2°

Apr

16°4°

May

22°10°

Jun

28°16°

Jul

30°19°

Aug

29°18°

Sep

25°13°

Oct

18°6°

Nov

9°0°

Dec

1°-8°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Urbandale.

What people love

Urbandale, located in Iowa, United States, offers several benefits for travelers:

Family-friendly environment: Urbandale is known for its safe and family-friendly neighborhoods, making it a great destination for families looking for a relaxing getaway.
Proximity to Des Moines: Urbandale is just a short drive away from the capital city of Iowa, Des Moines. This allows travelers to easily access a wide range of attractions, restaurants, and cultural experiences in the area.
Outdoor activities: Urbandale is surrounded by beautiful parks and natural areas, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Local dining scene: The city has a diverse culinary scene with a variety of restaurants offering delicious local and international cuisine.
Community events: Urbandale hosts various community events throughout the year, including festivals, farmers markets, and concerts, providing travelers with a chance to experience the local culture and connect with residents.

Overall, traveling to Urbandale can offer a blend of relaxation, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences for visitors.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Urbandale, Iowa, include:

Limited tourist attractions: Urbandale is primarily a residential suburb of Des Moines, so it may not have as many tourist attractions or activities compared to larger cities.
Limited public transportation: Like many suburbs, Urbandale may have limited public transportation options, making it necessary to rely on a car for getting around.
Weather extremes: Iowa's weather can be extreme, with hot summers and cold winters. Travelers should be prepared for potential weather challenges depending on the time of year.
Limited dining and entertainment options: While there are restaurants and entertainment options in Urbandale, visitors may find a greater variety in nearby Des Moines.
Distance from major attractions: Urbandale is not located directly near major tourist attractions in Iowa, so visitors may need to travel further to reach popular destinations.

Overall, while Urbandale offers a quiet and suburban atmosphere, travelers looking for a more bustling or diverse experience may find it lacking in certain aspects.

Urbandale, Iowa, is a city located in Polk and Dallas counties and is part of the Des Moines metropolitan area. Here is a detailed history of Urbandale:

Founding and Early History

Incorporation: Urbandale was incorporated as a city on April 16, 1917. Originally, it served as a streetcar suburb of Des Moines, providing residents with a place to live while working in the city.
Industry: In its early years, Urbandale was known for its coal mining industry. Several coal mines operated in the area, which attracted workers and contributed to its initial growth. The streetcar line was essential in transporting coal and workers to and from Des Moines.

Growth and Development

Post-War Expansion: After World War II, Urbandale experienced significant growth. The shift from a coal-based economy to a suburban residential community began, driven by an increase in population and housing developments.
Infrastructure: Over the years, significant investments were made in infrastructure, schools, and public services, facilitating Urbandale’s transformation into a desirable residential area.

Modern Era

Suburban Development: The latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st century saw Urbandale grow substantially as part of the suburban expansion of Des Moines. The city has developed numerous residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, and business parks.
Community and Culture: Today, Urbandale is known for its strong community orientation, excellent public parks, and quality of life. It maintains a balance of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

Notable Landmarks

Living History Farms: Located nearby in Urbandale, this interactive outdoor museum depicts Iowa's agricultural history and offers visitors a chance to experience life on a farm from various historical periods.
Urbandale Public Library: A modern facility that serves as a cultural and educational hub for residents.
Parks and Recreation: The city is home to numerous parks and trails, including Walker Johnston Park and the Urbandale Sports Complex, which provide recreational opportunities for residents.

Significant Figures

Local Leadership: Over the years, various community leaders and local government officials have contributed to Urbandale’s development, though the city does not have widely recognized historical figures on a national scale.

Urbandale continues to thrive as a part of the larger Des Moines metropolitan area, offering a suburban lifestyle with the conveniences of urban amenities nearby. The city emphasizes community development, education, and maintaining a high quality of life for its residents.