May 21, 2025
If you’ve ever wished for the perks of big-city living without actually having to live in a big city, let me introduce you to Ankeny, Iowa . Just a short drive north of Des Moines, Ankeny has become one of those places that truly has the best of both worlds. It’s grown a lot in recent years, but it’s still managed to hang onto that small-town charm people love so much. That Small-Town Feel You Just Can’t Fake One of the first things you’ll notice about Ankeny is how tight-knit the community feels. There are always local events happening. SummerFest is a big one, but there’s also the weekly farmers market, parades, movie nights in the park ... the list goes on. It’s the kind of place where you run into friends at the coffee shop or while walking your dog downtown. Uptown Ankeny and The District at Prairie Trail are both hot spots for grabbing a bite, checking out some unique shops, or just hanging out. And let me tell you, the local breweries like Firetrucker and Uptown Garage know how to draw a crowd, especially on a sunny afternoon. Don’t Let the Charm Fool You — This Town Has It All For as cozy as it feels, Ankeny doesn’t fall short on amenities . Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library is the brand-new public library that’s huge, modern, and packed with community programs, events, and resources for all ages. If you work in Des Moines, the commute is a breeze. It’s only about 15 minutes down Interstate 35, so you get the benefit of working in the city while coming home to a place that feels more relaxed and personal. Trails, Parks, and Plenty of Outdoor Fun If you’re an outdoor person or just like pretending to be on weekends, Ankeny has you covered . The city has more than 90 miles of trails for walking, running, and biking, including the iconic High Trestle Trail. And coming soon? A glow-in-the-dark trail. Yes, really. It’s going to be a fun addition for night rides or evening strolls. Families especially love the abundance of parks and recreation options. The Prairie Ridge Sports Complex is a go-to for weekend games, and in the summer, the waterparks at Cascade Falls and Prairie Ridge are packed with kids cooling off and making memories. A Great Place to Raise a Family If you’ve got kids, or are planning to, Ankeny’s schools are one of the big draws. The Ankeny Community School District is well-respected, with strong academics and tons of extracurriculars. It’s one of those places where families settle in because they know their kids will be well supported. And honestly, it just feels like a great place to grow up. Safe neighborhoods, welcoming neighbors, and a real sense of community. Ready to Call Ankeny Home? At the end of the day, Ankeny is the kind of place where you can plant roots. Whether you’re starting a family, relocating for work, or just looking for a fresh start in a friendly town, it’s worth checking out. If you’re thinking about making the move, we at Hunziker would love to help you find the right place to call home. Contact us today to find your future home in Ankeny!