Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Waukee, Iowa

Emerging rapidly, the small city of Waukee is situated on the western edge of the expanding Des Moines metropolitan area.

In Waukee, residents enjoy the dual benefits of nearby urban amenities, including shopping, culture, and significant landmarks.

Conversely, the rural terrain of Iowa unfolds to the west, accessible by foot or bicycle via the Raccoon River Valley Trail, which features a trailhead located in Waukee.

During the summer months, Centennial Park and The Triangle serve as venues for major festivities such as the Independence Day Celebration and the Waukee Farmers’ Market, showcasing Iowa’s acclaimed local produce.

1. The Triangle

At the center of downtown Waukee, beneath the Heartland Cooperative grain elevator, lies this charming park.

Functioning as a town green, complete with a gazebo and three mature linden trees, The Triangle accommodates community events, including the Waukee Farmers’ Market and the summer outdoor concert series.

Be attentive for additional summer activities, such as Yoga in the Park. The Triangle serves as a vital connector for a main commercial district that is expected to expand in the future.

Nearby independent businesses include an ice cream stand, a butcher shop, a furniture store, and several bars.

2. Centennial Park

Waukee’s primary park for outdoor activities is located adjacent to Waukee High School. Spanning 33 acres, it offers a diverse range of amenities including three ball diamonds, two sand volleyball courts, a Gaga Ball pit, three playgrounds, and a disc golf course featuring 12 holes.

There is also ample green space for informal soccer games and picnics. Nestled along a tree-lined creek with a covered bridge, Centennial Park is a picturesque venue for annual events like the Independence Day Celebration.

3. Heart of the Warrior Trail

The Heart of the Warrior Trail commences at the northeast corner of Centennial Park’s multi-use path, extending through Des Moines’ western suburbs to Lions Park in Clive.

Stretching just over three miles from west to east, this fully paved trail traverses several parks along its serene green path.

Additionally, the trail provides access for an adventure along the winding route of Walnut Creek. At the eastern trailhead, visitors can connect to the Clive Greenbelt Trail, which runs for nearly eight miles alongside the creek, through woodlands and abundant local parks.

4. Warrior Lanes

The current proprietors of this 16-lane bowling facility took charge in 2014 and have introduced several significant improvements.

For those planning a family outing, all the lanes are now equipped with automatic bumpers, making it easier for younger bowlers to learn the game.

On Friday and Saturday evenings, Warrior Lanes transforms into a family-centric entertainment venue, featuring music, special effects, black lights, LED lighting, and illuminated synthetic lanes.

A full-service snack bar offers homemade pizzas and burgers fresh from the grill, alongside an arcade complete with redemption machines.

5. Kinship Brewing Company

Located near the Raccoon River Valley Trail, this craft brewery opened in 2021. The spacious taproom at Kinship Brewing Company showcases captivating artwork by local Des Moines artists.

Focusing primarily on lagers, the brewery offers an American Lager, Dark Lager, Amber Lager, Light Lager, and Corn Pilsner on tap, alongside a variety of ales, including IPAs and an Imperial Stout.

At the time of writing, the owners were considering the construction of a permanent kitchen to enhance the brewery’s food offerings.

Additionally, patrons may bring their canine companions, as there is a half-acre dog park available on the premises.

6. Des Moines

Although Waukee resides on the western periphery of the metro area, downtown Des Moines is consistently accessible within a 20-minute drive. An exhaustive overview of this city’s major attractions and experiences is beyond the scope of this article.

Nevertheless, some key highlights include energetic sports events and concerts at the Wells Fargo Arena, the nation’s second-ranked farmers’ market, Adventureland theme park, boutique shopping at the Historic East Village, the beloved Blank Park Zoo, and numerous miles of trails along the Des Moines River and its tributaries.

The Iowa State Capitol, distinguished by its resplendent gold dome, stands out as one of the nation’s most iconic landmarks.

For art enthusiasts, Waukee is conveniently situated near the Des Moines Art Center and Salisbury House & Gardens, providing an enriching experience of contemporary art and exquisite historical treasures.

7. Living History Farms

Located ten minutes east along U.S. Route 6, Living History Farms is a premier outdoor museum that vividly illustrates over 300 years of agricultural history in Iowa.

This destination features recreations of three historical farms—those of an Iowa Native American farm from the 1700s, an 1850 Pioneer Farm, and a 1900 Horse Powered Farm.

Each farm showcases authentic artifacts and buildings occupied by reenactors who demonstrate traditional skills, encompassing crafts ranging from tool making to canning.

Visitors can also explore the 1875 Town of Walnut Hill, venturing into a general store, bank, Victorian mansion, and law office, and discovering the roots of settlements founded on local agriculture.

8. Waukee Farmers’ Market

From June to September, The Triangle Park provides an ideal setting for a market held every Wednesday from 4 PM to 7 PM.

For those interested in the origins of their food, this market offers an opportunity to purchase groceries directly from their producers.

Expect fresh fruits and vegetables alongside herbs, flowers, honey, eggs, kettle corn, handmade candy, delectable baked goods, and unique crafts. Each week features live music, contributing to a festive atmosphere at The Triangle.

9. Raccoon River Valley Trail (RRVT)

Waukee serves as the southeastern trailhead for an 89-mile rail trail connecting 14 rural communities west of Des Moines.

The Raccoon River Valley Trail is open to hikers, joggers, cyclists, nature enthusiasts, and cross-country skiers, attracting over 350,000 visitors annually. In 2018, Waukee unveiled a striking public art installation at the trailhead.

Waukee Railroad Pergola – In the Shadow of the Rails was designed to position the city as a central hub for cycling enthusiasts throughout the state.

A convenient sign at the trailhead provides a map indicating distances to the nearest towns.

10. The Palms Theaters & IMAX

This locally-owned expansive cinema is part of the Fridley Theatres chain, established in the mid-1970s primarily across Iowa.

The Palms Theaters & IMAX serves as a popular destination not only for Waukee but also for a significant portion of the metropolitan area. The appeal is evident, as each auditorium is equipped with Dolby Atmos sound and Ultralux Loungers, ensuring an enhanced viewing experience for the latest blockbusters.

For a unique dining experience, check the website for details on Dine & Recline showings. Additionally, Tuesdays offer discounted admission at just $6 for regular screenings.

11. Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course

Waukee features a well-appointed nine-hole municipal golf course adjacent to agricultural land in the southern part of the city.

This par 34 course is welcoming for newcomers to golf, while experienced players will also find numerous enjoyable challenges.

Be mindful of the namesake creek winding along the east side of the course. For those seeking to refine their swing, there is a well-maintained practice facility complete with a driving range and putting green.

12. Jordan Creek Town Center

Shopping is never a challenge in Waukee, especially with the largest shopping complex in the state merely ten minutes away.

Jordan Creek Town Center encompasses nearly 150 stores and over 25 restaurants, along with a high-end Cinemark movie theater.

The shopping area consists of an enclosed two-level mall adjacent to The Village District, featuring a variety of large retail outlets.

Particularly noteworthy is The Lake District, where casual dining establishments such as P.F. Chang’s are situated along the shore of a man-made lake adorned with fountains and wildlife.

13. Smash Park

Situated directly across from Jordan Creek Town Center, Smash Park offers a unique entertainment concept specifically designed for adults.

The venue features amenities for pickleball, ping pong, cornhole, bocce ball, darts, and shuffleboard, complemented by Iowa’s largest patio, a modern arcade, and four bars serving craft beers, premium spirits, and innovative cocktails.

Contemporary, street-style food options, including wraps and flatbreads, are available, along with more than seventy HD TVs to catch the latest games.

14. Westown Meadows Park

One of a series of new parks designed to accommodate the rapidly growing population, Westown Meadows Park officially opened in June 2020.

This park is certain to delight children, featuring a splash pad—an enjoyable way to cool off during the humid summers typical of Des Moines.

In addition to these water features, conventional play equipment is available for recreation.

Moreover, the park boasts spacious green areas with shaded picnic locations, landscaped surroundings, and paved walking paths.

15. Independence Day Celebration

Centennial Park serves as the focal point for Waukee’s three-day celebration of American independence during the July 4th holiday.

The highlight is an elaborate parade held on Saturday morning along La Grant Parkway, featuring participation from various local businesses and organizations.

This event culminates at Centennial Park, where a carnival atmosphere prevails, with numerous food vendors and a variety of family-oriented activities and contests.

Entertainment includes live music, outdoor movies, a fun run, and, of course, a spectacular fireworks display to conclude the festivities.