Top Rated Attractions in Ankeny

Telling the story of Iowa's cultural and agricultural history, Living History Farms situated in the heart of Urbandale is an excellent open-air museum. The many buildings and barns here are built in a rustic style that was prevalent in Iowa during the past centuries to add to the overall setting. A visit to the Living History Farms is ought to be fun and educational at the same time.

Eye-candy for botanists and admirers of nature, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden prides itself on its beautiful plantations, exotic flowers, and manicured hedges. You'll find an incredible variety of tropical plants, as well as features like small waterfalls to help set the scene. Beyond creating visually stunning experiences, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden also endeavors to create awareness among visitors about horticulture and the environment through its several educational tours. Plant lover or not, head here to soak in the lovely atmosphere or simply for a breath of fresh air.

This courtly state capitol is perched atop a verdant hill, and is a canopy of elegance and dignity. A landmark structure in Des Moines, the building is at once imposing and regal, historic and contemporary. Constructed between 1871 and 1886, it is the only state capitol in the United States that has five domes, notably the gilded central dome. One of the tallest buildings in Iowa until 1924, this iconic government building houses the Iowa State Senate and House of Representatives, as well as the offices of the Governor of Iowa, Attorney General, Secretary of State, and other major agencies. With a gilded dome glimmering under the radiance of the sun and sky, the Iowa State Capitol also acts as a panoramic vantage point over the city's bustling downtown. The capitol's exterior is complete with Corinthian columns, porticoes and a finely-sculpted pediment, while the interior is adorned with opulent furniture and remnants like ship models and ceremonial gowns attached to historic luminaries. The grounds of the capitol also shelter the soul-stirring Lincoln and Tad Statue and the Soldier and Sailors Monument.

Once a sand and gravel quarry which grew into a huge oxbow-shaped lake, Gray's Lake Park came into form in 2001 and has been an integral part of the city ever since. Spread across 167 acres (67.58 hectares) which includes the 100-acre (40.47 hectares) namesake lake, this beautiful urban park offers a lot of recreational activity for residents within the locality. The lake is fed by the nearby river and is full throughout the year. Abounding with fish like catfish, largemouth bass and crapies, it is a favorable spot for fishing. Permit is required for this. The Kruidenier Trail Pedestrian Bridge during the night with its colorful light display is a sight to behold. Sailing, boating, canoeing and kite-flying are other popular activities. Well planned trails, biking trails, picnic spots, a swimming area, a beach and playground complete this park. Bicycles and watercrafts can be rented from the park. Pets on leash are allowed.

The historic East Village neighborhood in Downtown Des Moines is dotted with various bars, restaurants, and shops. The fun, eclectic atmosphere of this village is what attracts many visitors. The historic East Village also hosts many annual events, including the World Food Festival. This iconic neighborhood features a combination of residential and commercial areas.

A temple for art lovers and learners, the Des Moines Art Center houses artworks like Edward Hopper's Automat, which was reproduced as a postage stamp. Other artists included in the permanent collection are Andy Warhol, Claude Monet, and Roy Lichtenstein. The building is considered a work of art in and of itself, first built in 1948 and later redesigned in 1968. The art center even has a reference library, restaurant, and gift shop. It also has arrangements for seminars and workshops on regularly.