Drake University

Things to do near Drake University

Drake University, located in Des Moines, Iowa, offers a vibrant mix of activities including sports events, exciting festivals, and engaging basketball games. Visitors can enjoy area sightseeing, partake in art classes, and experience a variety of thrilling events throughout the year. Whether you're seeking a fun day out or an immersive cultural experience, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the lively atmosphere surrounding the university.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Drake University, visit Merle Hay Mall, a vibrant shopping centre located 4.8km away, and the Downtown Farmers' Market, just 3.2km away, offering local produce and crafts. If you're up for a drive, Valley West Mall, located 8.0km away, features diverse shops and entertainment options.

Recreation

At Principal Park, enjoy the exhilarating atmosphere of live sports events just 4.8km from Drake University. For a dose of culture, the Val Air Ballroom offers a vibrant music scene, also 4.8km away. Alternatively, unwind at Waveland Municipal Golf Course, just 1.6km away, amidst serene outdoor surroundings.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Air Lanes Bowling Center, located 6.4km from Drake University, where you can enjoy a fun-filled bowling session. For a scenic hike, explore the Greenbelt Trail, 8.0km away, offering beautiful outdoor views and invigorating nature vibes.

Nightlife

The nightlife near Drake University offers vibrant options like Hoyt Sherman Place, a charming theatre just 1.6km away, perfect for cultural experiences. Alternatively, enjoy performances at the Des Moines Community Playhouse, also 1.6km away, or the Lauridsen Amphitheater, located two miles from campus, both radiating family-friendly entertainment.

Find the best attractions near Drake University

Drake University and its surroundings offer a rich array of attractions for every type of visitor. From event venues and entertainment arenas to fairgrounds, there's something for everyone. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, or outdoor adventures, the area caters to diverse interests, ensuring a memorable visit for all travellers.

• Wells Fargo Arena: Located 3.2km from Drake University, this vibrant arena offers an exciting atmosphere filled with family-friendly entertainment. Whether you're catching a concert or a sports event, the energy is infectious, making it a memorable experience for visitors.
• Iowa State Fairgrounds: Situated 9.7km away, the fairgrounds exude a lively outdoor charm perfect for families. Here, you can immerse yourself in local culture, enjoy delicious fair food, and participate in various activities that celebrate Iowa's agricultural heritage.
• Iowa Events Center: Just 3.2km from the university, this venue boasts a professional ambience ideal for conferences and events. It's a hub for business gatherings, showcasing the dynamic side of Des Moines' event scene.

Best time to go to Drake University

The best time to visit Drake University is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	24.1°F (-4.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
August	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
November	40.5°F (4.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	29.3°F (-1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Drake University

For a budget-friendly visit to Drake University, consider travelling between November and January when accommodation prices are lower. Mondays offer the best rates for stays, while Saturdays tend to be the most expensive. Use Expedia to filter your hotel choices based on budget and location, and take advantage of package deals that bundle flights and activities for extra savings. Explore free local attractions and utilise public transport options, which are generally more economical. Always check for additional fees and potential free night offers to maximise your travel budget.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Drake University are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Drake University is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Drake University is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of hotel. To discover the most economical options and offers, sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially save money by combining your hotel accommodation near Drake University with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.