New public amenities give residents plenty of reasons to love Ankeny
Ankeny has put in a lot of time and funds into public amenities, like a new community center, library, sports complexes and parks. Here are a few to put on your list to see.
Albaugh Family Senior Community Center
Brand new, this facility caters to seniors with a walking track, pickleball courts and a fitness area. Upstairs amenities, including the track, are open to all Ankeny citizens. The $7.1 million project is a partnership between the city and Polk County and is located next to the Fire Department Headquarters in Uptown.
Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library
The city’s new library (it opened in 2021) is double the size of the previous public space. Reserve books online—there’s increased circulation. Plus, you can find a quiet spot to read in person or check out programming such as book groups and summer reading for the kids.
Prairie Ridge Sports Complex
Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse and football players have space to play here. There are six softball, 10 soccer and 16 baseball fields on this 124-acre north-side park. Plus, find walking trails, two ponds for fishing, tennis courts and open space. The skate park and an aquatic center are located nearby.
Parks to Love
Ankeny Dog Park
Sited on 7 1/2 acres, this fun play space for the pooch is fenced and has a pond for four-legged friends that like to swim.
Cascade Falls Aquatic Center
Chill in the lazy river, swim laps for cardio workout, or fly down the swirl bowl slide. This Prairie Trail water park has something for everyone, including small kids with a zero-depth entry pool. The most unique amenity is the FlowRider surf machine.
Miracle Park
This all-inclusive park is the city’s largest. The Uptown space is wheelchair-accessible and has other features such as sensory play areas. Plus, the space is open for rent for the next birthday party.
Prairie Ridge Aquatic Center
This north-side park is ideal for kids of all ages, with slides, a lily pad walk and a splash park.
Prairie Ridge Skate Park
Skateboarders of all skill levels can kick around this park, practicing ollies in the concrete bowl or grinds on the rails.
