Urbandale City Guide

Food focuses on Midwestern comfort dishes like pork tenderloin sandwiches. There is some international food, especially in Des Moines. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Late-night food is mostly fast food.

Nightlife in Urbandale is calm with local bars and pubs. More options are found in downtown Des Moines.

Coffee culture is developing with a mix of chains and some specialty shops in the metro area. Focus is on community rather than specialty brews.

Tipping is standard in the U.S. Expect 15-20% in restaurants and bars, and for other service providers. Optional at counter service but appreciated.

SIM cards can be bought at AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile stores, and Best Buy. Coverage is strong. A valid ID is usually required for post-paid plans.

Streets and public areas are generally clean and well maintained with regular waste and recycling services.

Some gas stations and convenience stores open 24/7. Pharmacies and clinics mostly not 24/7, but hospitals have emergency rooms.

Groceries are available at Hy-Vee, Fareway, and Aldi. International foods are more common in Des Moines. Stores usually open 6 AM to 10 PM and are open on Sundays.

Card payments are widely accepted at most places. Cash is rarely needed.

ATMs are easy to find at banks like Wells Fargo and Bank of America, and many grocery stores. Out-of-network fees range from $2.50 to $5.00.

Urbandale Community School District is known for strong academics. Classes are in English. Enrollment follows the August/September school year.

Small local community. Most meetups and networking happen in nearby Des Moines. Libraries and cafes provide workspaces.

Plenty of parks like Walker Johnston and Lions Park offer shaded trails and good facilities for walking and running.

Safe trails and paths like the Urbandale Inter-Urban Trail and local parks are good for running. Local running clubs exist.

Several gyms offer 24/7 access, classes, and equipment for various fitness levels.

Public tennis courts at local parks with primarily hard courts. Equipment rental not common.

Padel courts are not available locally.

Several yoga studios offer various classes and styles with English-speaking instructors.

Several gyms offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, boxing, and kickboxing with English-speaking instructors.

Small ski resorts about 45 minutes away offer mostly beginner to intermediate terrain with artificial snow, open late December to early March.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at nearby lakes in warm months with some rentals available.

Surfing is not available in Iowa.

No natural diving or snorkeling opportunities.

High quality healthcare with English-speaking staff. Major hospitals nearby include UnityPoint Health and MercyOne. Pharmacies provide OTC drugs and advice. Emergency number is 911.

Tap water meets all federal and state safety standards.

Many parks with playgrounds, kid-friendly cafes, and attractions like Living History Farms and Get Air Trampoline Park.

Generally accepting with legal protections. Most safe spaces and events are in Des Moines.

Many parks allow leashed dogs, with dog parks and vets nearby. Pet-friendly hotels and restaurants are increasing.