DSM USA Day Trip: Waukee, Iowa

When you live in Greater Des Moines (DSM), you’ll never need to look far for things to do and places to stay. In this new “DSM Day Trip” series, we’re highlighting different cities and counties around the region so you can see just what each of these different locations has to offer. In our first post, check out Waukee, Iowa. From must-attend events to shopping, dining and hotels, Waukee is the perfect place to spend a day.

Fall Things to Do in Waukee, Iowa

Must-Attend Waukee Events

Trick or Trout at Triumph Park

From 1 – 3 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 28, 2024, Triumph Park will find its pond stocked with hundreds of trout during Waukee’s Trick or Trout event. Find a tagged fish to reel in some prizes. Note: Ages 16+ must have a fishing license and trout stamp.

Beggar’s Night

Beggar’s Night in Waukee is Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024 from 6 – 8 p.m. across the city’s residential neighborhoods. Wear your costume and join in the fun!

Waukee Public Library Events

The Waukee Public Library will hold two bookish events in November. On Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, from 9 – 9:30 a.m., watch a virtual Storytime video, or take part in the library’s Afternoon Book Club at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024 in the Coal Mine Meeting Room.

Find information on all Waukee Public Library events at waukeepubliclibrary.org.

Events at Vibrant Music Hall

Live Nation’s Vibrant Music Hall on Grand Prairie Parkway is home to a state-of-the-art venue that welcomes musical acts of all kinds to the region. Experience the VIP Red Room, food and drinks, including seven bars throughout the venue, and accessible and inclusive services, from restrooms to seating to ticketing options. Upcoming fall shows include:

• Bop to the Top Presents Best of Both Worlds Hannah Montana Night on Friday, Oct. 25, 2024 at 9 a.m.
• Niko Moon: These Are the Days Tour on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.
• Trippie Redd on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024 at 8 p.m.
• King Diamond the Saint Lucifer’s Hospital 1920 on Monday, Nov. 11, 2024 at 7 p.m.
• Kip Moore: Nomad Tour on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024 at 7:45 p.m.
• ZZ Top on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.
• Roony Chieng: The Love to Hate it Tour on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024 at 7 p.m.
• Babymetal on Wednesday, Nov.27, 2024 at 8 p.m.

Find information on these events and more at vibrantmusichall.com.

Des Moines Parks & Recreation Events

From Sunflower Fine Art for ages 6 to 18 taking place from 5 – 6:30 p.m. beginning Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024 (and with other class times and dates as well!) to Adult Fall Indoor Pickleball Class with Life Time Tennis (this one is from 5 – 6 p.m. beginning Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024!), Waukee Parks & Recreation has tons of fall activities to keep you busy.

Don’t forget to purchase a day pass to Waukee Trailside Dog Park to take advantage of the dog park yet this year (day passes are just $5!), or watch for information on purchasing an annual pass for 2025.

Register for Des Moines Parks & Recreation activities at waukee.activityreg.com.

Waukee Turkey Trot

On Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024 at 9 a.m., the Waukee Turkey Trot 5K tradition continues in its second annual event! You won’t want to miss fresh Donutland donuts at the finish line or premium fleece hoodie or long-sleeve swag for runners. Proceeds go to Friends of Iowa CASA and ICFCRB so you can support volunteer advocacy for children in Iowa.

Turkey Trot info can be found at iowaruns.com.

Shopping Districts and Restaurants in Waukee

Golfers can take sign up for lessons or book a tee time on the virtual green at Broheim’s Indoor Golf & Pub in Waukee. Private, public and Stableford Leagues are available to join. Note: The public leagues are currently full. During the holiday season, you can also visit The Palms Theatres & IMAX to for its Holiday Movie Series. In 2024, IMAX Polar Express shows will play on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024 (2D at 10 a.m. and 3D at 1 p.m.) and Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024 (3D at 10 a.m. and 2D at 1 p.m.). Elf will play on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 and Sunday, Dec. 15 at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. with $2 admission.

Merll’s Pub and Patio is a Waukee legacy. The restaurant is a tribute to Waukee native Merll Tovrea, who ran a diner and service station in the city 50 years ago. Try the Nashville Hot Pickle Chips, Merll’s Chop Salad or the Midwest’s Finest pizza. Or, head to Des Moines native Pete Faber’s Barn Town Brewing for homemade ales like the Iowa Gold and gluten-free options like the Spicy Pickle Tickle and double-patty, ‘50s-style burgers await. Try the bunless Poutine Burger featuring house-made gravy and cheese curds.

Coming soon: Waukee Towne Center, with yet-to-be-announced shops and restaurants, not to mention a winter skating rink and amphitheater!

While Waukee awaits the completion of Waukee Towne Center, head to nearby Jordan Creek Town Center or West Glen Town Center in West Des Moines, less than 10 miles away!

Hotels in Waukee

Aloft Waukee is new to the region and to Waukee’s entertainment district, KeeTown Loop, and offers a location close to Vibrant Music Hall. See a show and stay at a hotel with great amenities, including free coffee / tea, an indoor pool and fitness center.

Coming soon: Hilton Home2 Suites will also be a part of KeeTown Loop, featuring extended-stay suites, with completion in early 2026.

For more information on things to do in Waukee, Iowa, visit waukee.org or waukeechamber.com.

Spending a day in Greater Des Moines (DSM) means you’ll have the chance to experience local outdoor recreation areas, shopping destinations and arts and cultural activities. It’s easy to have fun with the family, make friends and take in all that the region has to offer. Find events and things to do in DSM communities all year round at DSMpartnership.com.