Use this guide to find your way around town
Located just 10 minutes north of Des Moines, the city of about 62,000 has booming population growth. In fact, according to the census, it’s the fastest-growing city in the Midwest and one of the country’s top growing areas. Ankeny sports new schools, housing developments, shopping centers and more. Here’s a quick guide.
Interstate 35 Corridor
As the name suggests, this area edges Interstate 35 running north to south. Find major retailers, national hotel brands and chain restaurants. Business hubs east of I-35 include Kreg Tool, Caseys, Amazon and several food distributors. Major developments, including both residential and commercial centers, are in the works for this area. Plus, you’ll find the only Duluth Trading Co. in Iowa.
North side
Some of the city’s top independent dining spots are located here. Also find four golf courses all within a short drive, Prairie Ridge Sports Complex, and the High Trestle Trail for cyclists, plus new upscale housing developments.
Prairie Trail
Founded on New Urbanism, this community on the south side of town near Des Moines Area Community College houses the popular shopping, dining and entertainment area, The District at Prairie Trail. New housing, schools, the public library and parks—including an epic water park—are located here.
Uptown
The city’s heart and original downtown is the “it” spot for Saturday mornings. Locals flock to a farmers market and yoga in the park, plus breweries, indie shopping and the starting-off point to the High Trestle Trail, one of the state’s most popular cycling routes.
