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Is West Des Moines a good place to live?Yes, West Des Moines is considered one of the best places to live in Iowa. Known for its welcoming community, excellent schools, and vibrant local economy, the city offers a high quality of life. Residents enjoy a mix of suburban comforts and urban conveniences, with plenty of parks, dining options, and shopping areas like the Jordan Creek Town Center.
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Is West Des Moines a walkable neighborhood?West Des Moines is somewhat walkable, with a Walk Score of 34 and a Bike Score of 37 according to Walkscore.com, indicating that most errands require a car, but some areas may offer better walkability or biking options. While the city has pockets of well-connected streets and proximity to parks, schools, and shopping centers, many neighborhoods remain car-dependent. For those who enjoy cycling, the city’s dedicated bike paths and trails provide additional options for getting around.
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What are the activities for kids in West Des Moines?West Des Moines offers a variety of fun and enriching activities for kids. Families can spend time at Raccoon River Park, which features a playground, beach area, and nature trails, or visit the Valley Community Center, which hosts engaging classes and events for children. Kids can also participate in local youth sports leagues, enjoy interactive learning at the nearby Science Center of Iowa, or attend one of the many summer camps available in the area, ensuring there’s always something exciting to do.
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What are the transit options in West Des Moines?West Des Moines provides several convenient transit options for residents and visitors alike. The DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) bus service connects the city to the broader Des Moines metro area, making public transit accessible. The city is also bike-friendly, with dedicated trails and pathways for cycling and walking. Major highways such as I-35 and I-80 offer excellent driving access for commuters, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, making it easy to travel throughout the region.
The City of Urbandale, Iowa, has grown from its roots as a streetcar suburb into a thriving community within the Des Moines Metro area. Known for its exceptional schools, beautiful parks, and strong business climate, Urbandale offers a high quality of life for residents of all ages. With a diverse local economy spanning technology, finance, and healthcare, the city continues to attract families and professionals seeking both opportunity and suburban comfort.
At The Grantham Group, we are proud to serve this dynamic and growing city and look forward to helping you find your dream home or investment property in Altoona.
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Restaurants in Urbandale
Urbandale's dining scene has something for everyone, with a variety of options to suit every taste.
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The Machine Shed Restaurant: Known for their farm-fresh breakfasts, signature pot roast, and award-winning pork tenderloin.
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Urban Grill: Modern American fare in a sophisticated setting.
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Bennigan's On Merle Hay: A beloved local gathering spot offering Irish-American fare in a lively atmosphere.
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El Barco Mexican Restaurant: This authentic Mexican eatery brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico.
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100th St. Corner Cafe: An extensive menu of classic American diner fare, specializing in breakfast, in a no-frills setting.
Urbandale Homes for Sale
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Things to Do in Urbandale
Urbandale offers a variety of activities and attractions that cater to all interests. Here are some popular options:
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Living History Farms: Visitors can experience hands-on farming demonstrations, engage with historical reenactors, and participate in seasonal events that showcase different farming eras.
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Buccaneer Arena: While it's best known as the home ice for the Des Moines Buccaneers USHL team, the arena buzzes year-round with youth sports programs, special exhibitions, and community events.
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Urbandale Public Library: With its extensive digital and print collections, the library offers everything from children's storytimes to adult learning workshops.
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Urbandale Aquatic Center: Summer fun finds its home at this family-favorite destination. The center features an impressive array of aquatic amenities, including multiple pools for different age groups, exciting water slides, and diving boards.
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Walker Johnston Park: This versatile park seamlessly blends athletic facilities with natural beauty, offering well-maintained sports fields, scenic walking trails, and peaceful picnic areas.

Hotels in Urbandale
Urbandale's hotel options cater to visitors with varying needs and budgets. Some notable accommodations include:
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Revel Hotel: A modern boutique hotel offering stylish rooms and contemporary amenities. Located in the heart of Urbandale with easy access to local attractions.
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites: Known for comfortable, reliable accommodations with complimentary breakfast and business-friendly features. Ideal for both leisure and business travelers.
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Hotel Renovo: A unique boutique hotel featuring locally-inspired design and personalized service. Offers a distinctive lodging experience in the Urbandale area.
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Hampton Inn & Suites: Part of the Hilton brand, providing consistent quality and comfort. Includes amenities like free hot breakfast and reliable Wi-Fi.
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Microtel Inn & Suites: Offers budget-friendly rooms with essential amenities. Provides clean, efficient accommodations for travelers seeking value.


Urbandale Community School District Rankings
The Urbandale Community School District is an above-average public school system serving students from preschool through 12th grade. With 4,308 students and a favorable student-teacher ratio of 15:1, the district demonstrates strong educational commitment. Based on Niche rankings and ratings, this section highlights how Urbandale Community School District stands out in key areas:
Most Diverse School Districts in Des Moines Area - #3 of 18
Districts with the Best Teachers in Des Moines Area - #4 of 18
Best Places to Teach in Des Moines Area - #9 of 18
Best School Districts in Des Moines Area - #9 of 18
Best School Districts for Athletes in Des Moines Area - #10 of 18
Note: Rankings and grades are from Niche' recent assessments. For the most current information and specific details about each district, it's recommended to visit their official websites or contact them directly.