Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Urbandale is a welcoming suburb of Des Moines that masterfully blends modern convenience with pastoral charm. This city offers a surprising depth of experiences, from its rich agricultural heritage to its contemporary shopping and dining scenes. As a key part of the Des Moines metropolitan area, Urbandale provides a peaceful, family-friendly base with easy access to the capital city's vibrant energy. With 11 hotels offering an average nightly rate of around $106, visitors find comfortable and accessible lodging options. The city's unique appeal lies in its seamless integration of green spaces like Walnut Woods State Park with bustling commercial hubs such as Jordan Creek Town Center, creating a destination that caters to both relaxation and recreation. Whether you're here to step back in time at Living History Farms or enjoy the thrills of Adventureland, Urbandale presents a quintessential Midwestern experience that is both authentic and refreshing.
Urbandale, incorporated in 1917, has grown from its agricultural roots into a thriving suburban community known for its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and high quality of life. The city's culture is deeply connected to Iowa's farming history, proudly showcased at the renowned Living History Farms, an interactive outdoor museum that brings 300 years of agricultural progress to life. Urbandale is famous for its extensive park and trail system, including the scenic Walnut Woods State Park, and for being a major retail hub in the region, anchored by the expansive Jordan Creek Town Center. While not divided into formal districts, key areas include the bustling retail corridor along Mills Civic Parkway, the serene residential neighborhoods surrounding Walker Johnston Park, and the growing commercial zones near the I-80/35 interchange. The city maintains a strong sense of community through events and a focus on family-friendly amenities, making it a representative example of prosperous, well-planned Midwestern suburbia.
The best time to visit Urbandale is during the late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). These periods offer mild, pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring outdoor attractions like Living History Farms and Walnut Woods State Park, with average highs in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit. Summer (July-August) is peak season, featuring warm, humid weather perfect for Adventureland Park and outdoor festivals, but it can be crowded. This season also hosts major events like the Urbandale Fourth of July Celebration. Winter (December-February) is the off-peak season, with cold temperatures and potential snow, offering lower hotel rates but limiting outdoor activities. Fall is particularly scenic with beautiful foliage, while spring brings blooming prairies. For a balance of good weather and manageable crowds, the shoulder months of May and September are highly recommended.
Urbandale experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are warm to hot and humid. Spring and fall are generally mild and pleasant transition periods.
Cold with frequent snowfall and occasional sub-zero temperatures. Days are short. Ideal for indoor museums and cozy dining.
Unpredictable weather with warming trends, rain, and potential late snow. Nature begins to bloom beautifully by May.
Warm to hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms. Long days perfect for parks, festivals, and Adventureland.
Crisp, cool air and stunning fall foliage, especially in October. Nights become chilly. Excellent for outdoor exploration.
Best for: indoor activities
Best for: indoor activities
Best for: early spring sightseeing
Best for: sightseeing
Best for: outdoor activities
Best for: outdoor activities
Best for: outdoor activities, festivals
Best for: outdoor activities, festivals
Best for: outdoor activities, sightseeing
Best for: sightseeing, foliage
Best for: sightseeing
Best for: indoor activities
Getting around Urbandale primarily requires a car, as public transportation is limited within the suburb itself. The Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART) bus system has routes connecting Urbandale to downtown Des Moines and other suburbs, but service frequency is lower than in a major city core. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and reliable for point-to-point travel. Taxis are less common but can be booked by phone. The city is very car-friendly with ample free parking everywhere. For airport transfers, Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is only a 15-minute drive away; taxis, ride-shares, and some hotel shuttles provide service. While some areas, like the trails connecting parks, are walkable and bikeable for recreation, the spread-out nature of attractions makes biking or walking for full transportation impractical. Renting a car is the most efficient and recommended option for visitors.
Step back in time and explore this living museum that showcases Iowa's agricultural history with interactive exhibits.
Expansive shopping mall with over 120 stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.
A park offering hiking trails, picnicking, and wildlife observation.
Family-friendly amusement park with thrilling rides, games, and entertainment.
A premier art museum in Des Moines featuring modern and contemporary art exhibits along with beautiful surrounding gardens.
An exciting amusement park offering a variety of rides and attractions suitable for all ages.
Urban park with trails, boating, and skyline views
Centered around the massive Jordan Creek Town Center, this is the main retail and commercial hub of Urbandale. Features shopping, dining, hotels, and modern apartment complexes.
The original heart of the city near 70th Street and Douglas Avenue. Characterized by older, well-established homes, community parks, and local businesses.
A primarily residential area with newer subdivisions, top-rated schools, and proximity to Walnut Woods State Park. Offers a serene, family-friendly atmosphere.
The main interstate corridor lined with numerous hotels, chain restaurants, and convenient services. Ideal for travelers passing through or on a tight budget.
A green, park-centric neighborhood surrounding one of the city's largest parks. Features trails, sports facilities, and comfortable family homes.
A growing area with a mix of residential developments, business parks, and easy access to Living History Farms. Offers a quieter, more spread-out feel.
Urbandale's dining scene reflects its Iowan roots with a focus on hearty, farm-fresh comfort food. Must-try signature dishes include the Iowa pork tenderloin sandwich—a pounded, breaded, and fried cutlet often larger than the bun—and sweet corn, especially in late summer. As a major agricultural state, steak is also a local specialty. The dining culture is casual and family-oriented. Popular food areas are concentrated around Jordan Creek Town Center and along the Mills Civic Parkway corridor, which feature a wide range of options from local diners and breweries to national chains. For a true local experience, seek out a classic supper club or a farm-to-table restaurant showcasing Iowa beef and produce. Price ranges are moderate, with a satisfying meal often between $12-$25 per person. Etiquette is unpretentious; tipping 15-20% is standard. Don't miss trying a slice of Dutch letter pastry or a scoop of Maytag Blue Cheese, both iconic Iowa products.
Explore the Iowa State Capitol, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, East Village shops, and the Des Moines Art Center.
Take a scenic drive to see the historic covered bridges immortalized in the famous novel and film.
Visit the vibrant college town, home to Iowa State University, Reiman Gardens, and the Brunnier Art Museum.
Experience Dutch heritage at this charming town known for its tulip festival, windmills, and bakeries.
Iowa's largest lake offers boating, hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing at the Elk Rock State Park.
A short trip to a quaint county seat with a historic square, boutique shopping, and the iconic 'Sweetheart Bridge'.
Urbandale is generally a very safe city with a low crime rate, typical of a family-oriented suburb. Violent crime is rare. Exercise standard urban precautions: lock car doors, don't leave valuables in sight, and be aware of your surroundings, especially in large parking lots like those at Jordan Creek Town Center. There are no notable tourist-targeted scams. The main health recommendation is to be prepared for seasonal allergies in spring and summer due to the agricultural surroundings. For emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergency police assistance, the Urbandale Police Department can be contacted directly. Weather is the primary safety concern; be prepared for winter driving conditions and summer thunderstorms. Always heed severe weather warnings. Medical facilities are excellent and nearby in Des Moines.
Urbandale is a moderately priced destination. A budget traveler can manage on $70-100 per day by staying in budget hotel chains or Airbnb, eating at fast-casual or diner-style restaurants, and enjoying free attractions like parks and trails. Mid-range travelers should budget $150-250 per day, covering a standard hotel room ($100-150/night), sit-down meals, admission to Living History Farms or Adventureland, and a rental car. A luxury day ($300+) includes upscale hotels, fine dining, and premium experiences. Accommodation averages $106/night across 11 hotels. Food costs: budget meal $10-15, mid-range $15-30, fine dining $50+. Transport is dominated by car rental ($40-60/day) or ride-shares. Save money by visiting free parks, packing a picnic, looking for hotel packages that include attraction tickets, and visiting in the off-season (winter) for lower rates. Many hotels include free breakfast and parking.