The best things to do in Polk County

“Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball & parties.”

“Otter Creek Golf Course is a links-style, par-71 Paul Miller design with 17 ponds, tall grasses and those smooth, fast greens that make birdies feel earned. This week, grab a tee time, then tune up at the double-ended range, two putting greens and a pitching green with bunker.”

From the Ankeny newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Since 1962, Ankeny Golf and Country Club has kept it classic with an award-winning 9-hole course, a clubhouse overlooking the greens, and a social calendar that actually brings neighbors together.”

From the Ankeny newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Whether you're a low-handicap hero or just here for the walk, Waveland Golf Course is the oldest municipal course west of the Mississippi with an 18-hole, classic layout through rolling wooded hills and sneaky slopes. Grab a tee time this week and let those fairways keep you honest.”

From the Urbandale newsletter, October 15, 2026

“If your week needs a little luxe, Wakonda Club pairs a William Langford 18-hole course that overlooks downtown with clay-court tennis, lively pools, and legit clubhouse dining. Consistently ranked among the best in the Midwest, it’s a go-to for members looking to mix tee times with good times.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, October 7, 2026

“Family-friendly miniature golf course featuring a practice facility.”

“Fleur Cinema & Café has been Des Moines’ go-to for new indie, foreign, and quality Hollywood releases, plus frequent classics that viewers help pick. Make it a proper night with their full coffee bar, draft beer, wine, Italian sodas, fresh popcorn, and dessert bars.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Skip the scroll and let Varsity Cinema pick for you with prestige new releases, art house and international gems, curated classics, late-night oddities, and even concert films and opera on the big screen. Low-key perfect for a weeknight reset or a spirited Movie Bash with friends.”

From the Urbandale newsletter, September 25, 2026

“The Fat Putter Des Moines brings outrageous mini-golf vibes downtown with quirky holes, a legit cocktail bar, and a shiny arcade for bonus bragging rights. Rally your crew, sink some questionable shots, then celebrate with the other kind... it’s competitive cardio with better lighting.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Whether you’re after jaw-on-the-floor ScreenX and MX4D thrills or a laid-back night that mixes a blockbuster with a few frames and arcade bragging rights, B&B Theatres Ankeny 12 & B-Roll Bowling has you covered. Cap it off with dinner at Sterling’s and call it a perfect midweek reset.”

From the Ankeny newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Golf course featuring a blue course and a forgiving layout, plus a beverage cart.”

“Flix Brewhouse pairs first run blockbusters with on-site brewed beer like Nebulas Hazy IPA, Lucha Libre Mexican Lager, and seasonal pours, plus push-button, seat-side service for burgers, hand-tossed pizzas, wings, and warm cookies. Treat yourself to a recliner, a pint, and zero compromises this week.”

From the Urbandale newsletter, October 1, 2026

“Johnston Splash Pad is the easy, zero-fuss way to let the kids burn energy while you hang out and supervise. The water features pop on with foot-activated sensors, so even toddlers can make the magic happen, and it’s a breezy go-to when summer afternoons get spicy. Check it out.”

From the Urbandale newsletter, October 14, 2026

“Woodland Hills Golf Course offers an 18-hole regulation course for all skill levels, plus an Executive 9 you can loop in as little as an hour, perfect for sneaking in real golf between work and dinner. Leagues, Couple's Twilight, and fun tournaments keep the vibe lively, so grab a buddy this week.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 23, 2026

“Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is an easy win this week, with a tropical geodesic dome escape and outdoor borders popping with seasonal color and edibles. Drop in for art exhibits, hands-on classes, and chill summer concert nights, then head home inspired to finally tame that yard.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, September 30, 2026

“Golf course featuring 18 holes of mini-golf as well as a clubhouse that can be used for events.”

“Offering 27 holes of bent grass, this golf facility has 3 9-hole courses to mix and match, and provides lessons.”

“Sneak in a round at Bright Grandview Golf Course, a Des Moines classic since 1902 that trades length for brains with tree-lined fairways, domed greens, and sneaky elevation. It’s a shorter track that still bites back, perfect for sharpening irons and smug two-putts this week.”

From the Des Moines newsletter, October 14, 2026

“When the weather or your schedule refuses to cooperate, Birdies Mini Golf & Parties! makes it super easy to grab a quick round, spark a little friendly trash talk, and burn kid energy indoors... perfect for date nights, co-worker challenges, or spontaneous “let’s do something” moods.”

From the Urbandale newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Hidden in a shady little forest with a waterfall, stream, and a pond full of curious critters, Puttmasters At The Pines serves up 18 fun, casual-friendly holes that make for an easy weekend win. Bonus, their on-site event space is perfect for low-stress graduations or birthdays.”

From the Ankeny newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Longtime golf facility offering 18 holes plus mini-golf, simulators, and a driving range.”