Last updated: 2025-04-22
Ankeny offers a treasure trove of indoor activities perfect for escaping Iowa’s unpredictable weather. From artistic experiences to educational opportunities, residents and visitors can discover engaging indoor destinations that showcase the city’s vibrant community spirit.
Whether you’re seeking creative inspiration at the Ankeny Art Center or exploring learning spaces like DMACC Ankeny Campus, the city provides diverse indoor experiences that cater to different interests and age groups.
Discover Ankeny’s coolest indoor destinations right here!
Featured Indoor Activities in Ankeny
- Science Center of Iowa (Des Moines)
- Jordan Creek Town Center (West Des Moines)
- Des Moines Art Center (Des Moines)
- Smash Park (West Des Moines)
- Ankeny Public Library
- Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden (Des Moines)
- The District at Prairie Trail
- Ankeny Art Center
- Iowa State Capitol Building (Des Moines)
- DMACC Ankeny Campus
Ankeny Art Center
What to Expect
Community-focused visual arts education center
Description
Community art center offering diverse visual arts education through adult, children, and teen art classes, workshops, and exhibitions. Located in Ankeny, the center provides hands-on creative experiences that enrich community artistic engagement and learning opportunities.
Where: Ankeny | More Info: Ankeny Art Center
Ankeny Public Library
What to Expect
Multi-generational programming with specialized events
Description
Community library offering diverse programming for all ages, including interactive storytimes for children, teen workshops, adult book clubs, and special events like Dungeons & Dragons gatherings. Provides digital resources, room reservations, and extensive collection of books and online materials.
Where: Ankeny | More Info: Ankeny Public Library
Des Moines Art Center (Des Moines)
What to Expect
Museum, art school, and sculpture park with free admission
Description
The Des Moines Art Center offers a comprehensive art experience with free museum admission, featuring diverse exhibitions, a renowned sculpture park, and educational programs. Visitors can explore contemporary and traditional artworks, participate in art classes, and enjoy the expansive Pappajohn Sculpture Park showcasing world-class artists.
Where: Des Moines | More Info: Des Moines Art Center
DMACC Ankeny Campus
What to Expect
Expansive campus with comprehensive student support infrastructure
Description
DMACC Ankeny Campus offers a comprehensive educational environment with 25 buildings across 30 acres, providing over 200 academic programs. Students can access diverse learning opportunities, including a new Student Activities Center, Trail Point Aquatics and Fitness Center, and multiple student support services.
Where: Ankeny | More Info: DMACC Ankeny Campus
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden (Des Moines)
What to Expect
Climate-controlled geodesic dome with international plant collections
Description
Indoor tropical conservatory featuring diverse plant collections from around the world. Visitors explore lush greenhouses with exotic plants, a geodesic dome, and climate-controlled environments showcasing tropical and subtropical vegetation. Offers educational exhibits and serene indoor landscapes for nature enthusiasts.
Where: Des Moines | More Info: Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Iowa State Capitol Building (Des Moines)
What to Expect
19th-century architectural landmark with iconic golden dome
Description
Historic state capitol building offering free self-guided and group tours showcasing Iowa's governmental architecture. Visitors can explore ornate legislative chambers, stunning golden dome, and architectural details from the 1886 landmark. Features comprehensive visitor resources including virtual tours and educational exhibits about state government.
Where: Des Moines | More Info: Iowa State Capitol Building
Jordan Creek Town Center (West Des Moines)
What to Expect
Lakefront boardwalk integrated with retail shopping center
Description
Regional shopping destination featuring a 20-screen movie theater, diverse retail stores, and a unique park-like atmosphere with a lakefront boardwalk. This lifestyle center offers an expansive shopping experience with upscale brand names and multiple entertainment options for visitors.
Where: West Des Moines | More Info: Jordan Creek Town Center
Science Center of Iowa (Des Moines)
What to Expect
Comprehensive hands-on science exploration center
Description
The Science Center of Iowa offers an immersive learning environment with hands-on exhibits and interactive science displays. Located in downtown Des Moines, the center provides engaging educational experiences for visitors of all ages through dynamic exhibits, special-format theaters, and comprehensive science programming.
Where: Des Moines | More Info: Science Center of Iowa
Smash Park (West Des Moines)
What to Expect
Multi-sport social gaming complex with integrated dining and entertainment
Description
Indoor entertainment venue combining multiple activity zones featuring pickleball courts, ping pong tables, and interactive social gaming experiences. Offers competitive and casual play environments with modern sports bar atmosphere, allowing guests to engage in multiple sports and social interactions simultaneously.
Where: West Des Moines | More Info: Smash Park
The District at Prairie Trail
What to Expect
Integrated community entertainment hub with diverse venue options
Description
The District at Prairie Trail is a comprehensive community entertainment center in Ankeny, Iowa, offering diverse experiences across dining, shopping, events, and local attractions. A multi-purpose destination featuring various venues and regular community events that cater to different interests and age groups.
Where: Ankeny | More Info: The District at Prairie Trail
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