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Top 24 Hotels Near The U
1350 Se Gateway Dr Grimes, IA 50111
Red Lion Inn & Suites Grimes
This convenient drive to The U from Red Lion Inn & Suites Grimes is a defining feature, because it frames a stay built around efficiency.
Staff at Red Lion hotels are known for their genuine warmth and attentiveness, making the arrival process feel personal and welcoming. A comfortable seating area in every room, with a plush armchair or a sofa, offers a dedicated space for reading, conversation, or repose. The hotel bar and lounge serves as a cozy social hub, inviting guests to gather and enjoy a craft beer or a classic cocktail.
For a family-friendly stay, an indoor pool, a free hot breakfast, pet-friendly rooms, and an on-site restaurant offer convenience.
Tru by Hilton Grimes Des Moines
Upon leaving Tru by Hilton Grimes Des Moines, The U is a short drive with no car needed, simplifying your visit from the start.
Tru by Hilton's pet-friendly policy ensures that your four-legged companion is always invited to sit, stay, and play during your trip. Every suite delivers microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffee makers, supporting flexible routines for both meals and daily refreshments. Guests enjoying the Hive lobby encounter bright finishes, communal seating, and bold art, creating an energetic arrival experience.
Free Wi-Fi, Top It breakfast, game lounges, and fitness centers ensure guests enjoy routines that balance playfulness with convenience.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott - Des Moines Urbandale
In Grimes, TownePlace Suites by Marriott - Des Moines Urbandale boasts a accessible location to The U, letting guests connect with the area before their stay begins.
Something Borrowed® stations at TownePlace Suites offer practical items, showing thoughtful support that helps arrivals feel cared for instantly. Guest rooms present kitchens, organized closets, and entertainment, allowing extended-stay travelers to settle confidently into routines. Fitness center combines cardio machines and dumbbells, helping guests maintain daily workouts and return to familiar energy levels, support.
EV charging, lobby coffee, and outdoor pool offer transport convenience, refreshment, and leisure, helping guests sustain energy and balance.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Urbandale Des Moines
The quick drive from Homewood Suites by Hilton Urbandale Des Moines to The U in Grimes ensures guests a simple and reliable way to get to their destination.
Lobby seating clusters at Homewood Suites include flexible arrangements, creating a central hub for groups to gather before moving on. Each guest room provides blackout drapes, coffee makers, and cozy bedding, helping ensure reliable comfort and a restful night’s sleep. Guests in the breakfast area find eggs, waffles, and cereals, giving them a reliable morning routine that simplifies daily travel plans.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, parking services, fitness centers, and hot breakfast help keep travel simple and routines dependable daily.
Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines / Urbandale
For guests in Grimes, Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines / Urbandale is a quick drive from The U, a spot that supports a relaxed and easy schedule.
Infused water in Hilton Garden Inn lobbies provides refreshing courtesy, helping arrivals feel supported while transitioning from travel. Guest rooms feature blackout curtains, soft bedding, and climate control, ensuring restorative sleep that helps travelers wake energized. Pavilion Pantry markets with frozen meals, bottled drinks, and snacks give guests convenient access to essentials any time of day.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, Pavilion Pantry counters, fitness rooms, and outdoor pools provide consistency that simplifies travel.
Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston
The hotel's spot an easy drive from The U gives Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston guests a direct option for their daily commute.
Guests at Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston may encounter fast desk service, simple seating, and on-site parking arranged for practical guest arrivals. Guest rooms often include climate control, hardwood finishes, and plush bedding, creating a consistent and comfortable nightly setting. Shared spaces may present modest lobbies, vending stations, and laundry rooms that reflect the consistent focus of budget hotels.
A stay often highlights Wi-Fi, compact breakfast areas, vending corners, and guest laundries, reflecting practical balance in budget travel.
Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines / Urbandale
In Grimes, Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines / Urbandale is situated an easy drive from The U, a spot that enables a sense of control over the itinerary.
Infused water beside Hampton Inn reception seating offers refreshing detail, easing fatigue while supporting comfortable arrival transitions. Guest rooms provide blackout curtains, premium bedding, and thermostats, ensuring personalized environments that support deep, restful sleep. Breakfast areas with hot buffets, cereals, and pastries provide dependable variety, giving mornings clarity and structure for all guests.
Complimentary breakfast, outdoor pools, business centers, Wi-Fi, and EV charging support balanced routines that suit every traveler.
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Urbandale by IHG
The hotel's spot a straightforward drive from The U gives Holiday Inn Express and Suites Urbandale by IHG guests a direct way to manage their daily schedule.
Soft seating areas with nearby outlets in Holiday Inn Express lobbies allow travelers to recharge devices while regrouping comfortably. All guest rooms feature in-room coffee makers, mini-fridges, and outlets, simplifying routines by keeping essentials within reach. Business corners equipped with computers, Wi-Fi, and printers allow travelers to handle urgent work tasks quickly and conveniently.
Complimentary breakfast, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi connect with pools and laundry, keeping travel routines clear and consistent.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Urbandale / Des Moines
From the moment you check in at Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Urbandale / Des Moines, The U is a quick drive to save time, simplifying your itinerary.
Microtel sets a water dispenser or beverage point near the lobby at some sites, helping travelers rehydrate while rooms are assigned. Every guest room maintains reliable Wi-Fi and an HDTV, so navigation checks and streaming fill small gaps between plans easily. Business corners replace full rooms in compact footprints, combining a PC, printer, and small worktop so essentials still get handled fast.
With EV charging or ample parking at select sites, Wi-Fi, and breakfast, arrivals feel clear and departures stay reliably on schedule.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Urbandale
From Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Urbandale, The U is a straightforward drive, a detail that makes for an uncomplicated and well-placed stay.
Fairfield Inn frames the lobby core—desk, market, seating—so wayfinding is direct and arrivals can get to plans or rest without confusion. Suites combine mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffee makers, ensuring families have convenient access to snacks and drinks throughout their stays. Breakfast sections highlight hot items, cereals, and baked goods, giving families consistent choices to keep mornings structured and clear.
Guests enjoy meeting rooms, complimentary breakfast, 24/7 Market access, and fitness centers, creating dependable options for varied routines.
Extended Stay America Select Suites - Des Moines - Urbandale
For a trip to Grimes, Extended Stay America Select Suites - Des Moines - Urbandale's location a quick drive from The U is a fundamental part of its practical appeal.
The functional lobbies at Extended Stay America are designed for practicality, providing a straightforward entry point for self-sufficient guests. The free Wi-Fi is fast enough for streaming, allowing hotel guests to use their own accounts for a personalized entertainment experience. The swimming pool offers a fun, healthy way to unwind, giving guests a recreational amenity not always found at extended-stay properties.
From a refreshing swimming pool to a full kitchen and guest laundry, plus free Wi-Fi, guests have what they need for a comfortable visit.
Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale Tapestry Collection by Hilton
From Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale Tapestry Collection by Hilton, The U is a direct run, a choice that makes for a smooth transition from hotel to event.
Hydration points placed near comfortable chairs at Tapestry properties help guests reset physically while preparing for their stay. Guest rooms often feature unique artwork inspired by local identity, helping each stay feel original and resonant with place. Lofted coworking hubs or library corners allow focused work in communal comfort that still aligns with boutique tone.
Concierge services, fitness studios, Wi-Fi connectivity, breakfast offerings, and outdoor pools create simple balance across stays.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites
The simple drive from GrandStay Hotel & Suites to The U in Grimes makes cross-town travel uncomplicated and efficient.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites typically includes an efficient counter, self-serve coffee, and nearby parking stalls to support reliable travel flow. Accommodations may provide compact seating, rainfall showers, and tasteful décor, reinforcing a simple yet polished overnight stay. Facilities often feature vending machines, breakfast corners, and compact business areas that support everyday productivity and ease.
Accommodations may present Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and laundry facilities, reinforcing simple daily consistency.
Hotel Renovo Des Moines UrbandaleTapestry Collection Hilton
From Hotel Renovo Des Moines UrbandaleTapestry Collection Hilton, The U is a direct run, a choice that enhances the feeling of being well-situated.
Hilton pairs concierge service with open lobby layouts, helping ensure orientation clarity and a seamless start to every guest stay. Guest rooms feature Hilton Serenity Beds, blackout curtains, and adjustable thermostats, ensuring restful sleep and refreshed mornings. At the indoor pool, loungers, lighting, and clean towels combine to offer families dependable spaces for refreshment and leisure.
With on-site restaurants, indoor pools, fitness rooms, and meeting facilities, Hilton delivers a reliable balance of work and relaxation.
AmericInn by Wyndham Johnston Des Moines
Guests at AmericInn by Wyndham Johnston Des Moines can rely on The U being a direct run as a key amenity that defines the stay.
At Wyndham, lobby bars placed off the reception line offer a relaxed stop for a drink or light bite, so companions can unwind while keys are issued. All guest rooms provide high-speed Wi-Fi, streaming TV, and ergonomic desk arrangements, supporting both leisure streaming and remote work needs. Pool bars serve cocktails, chilled beverages, and light bites, offering a casual gathering place that helps coordinate post-event social plans.
Wi-Fi, mobile check-in, meeting rooms, in-room coffee makers, EV charging, and family suites ensure both work and family routines remain intact.
Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines
From the lobby of Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines, The U is a simple cross-town drive with no need for a long trip, simplifying the visit.
Lobbies at Ramada emphasize practical finishes and bright layouts, creating orientation clarity and dependable first impressions. Each guest room highlights plush beds, blackout curtains, and climate systems, ensuring restorative sleep every night of the stay. Lobby lounges with communal tables, lounge chairs, and bright lighting foster orientation clarity and casual conversation hubs.
Meeting spaces, breakfast counters, and Wi-Fi combine with business centers and parking, keeping professional priorities balanced.
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Des Moines - Northwest by IHG
From Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Des Moines - Northwest by IHG, the direct automotive access to The U is a welcome feature for travelers.
Holiday Inn & Suites provides complimentary breakfast areas near reception, offering clarity and dependable starts for all travelers. Guest rooms highlight branded bath products, walk-in showers, and towels, refreshing travelers consistently across every property. Fitness centers containing treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights enable guests to maintain daily health routines while traveling.
Business centers, fitness spaces, and Wi-Fi join with breakfast and parking, giving travelers reliable setups for balanced daily needs.
Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines - Merle Hay Road
Within Grimes, Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines - Merle Hay Road keeps The U an uncomplicated drive, which helps the hotel to feel well-connected.
Quality Inn arrival lighting and acoustics aim to lower noise and spotlight staff and signage, helping tired travelers find assistance faster. Rooms place clear pathways from door to desk to bed, reducing friction for late arrivals and making departures less stressful and faster. Fitness centers combine treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights with towel service and water stations so guests fit quick workouts into travel days.
Business centers and reliable in-room Wi-Fi support last-minute printing and quick virtual calls, keeping agendas moving without off-site stops.
Sonesta Essential Des Moines
This direct drive to The U helps Sonesta Essential Des Moines guests get grounded in the local Grimes environment without a long journey.
Upon entering, Sonesta Essential's lobby layout emphasizes short paths from entry to seating and service points to help guests orient quickly. Each suite offers a sofa bed, extra surfaces, and defined work zones, letting guests hold calls, share meals, or relax without moving furniture. Lobby workspaces combine communal tables, individual nooks, and abundant outlets, making quick email checks and map reviews straightforward.
With hot buffet or grab-and-go breakfast, reliable Wi-Fi, a fitness room, meeting space, and laundry, daily rhythms stay intact and ready.
Days Inn by Wyndham West Des Moines / Clive
From Days Inn by Wyndham West Des Moines / Clive, The U is a simple cross-town drive, giving a straightforward route for getting to your destination.
Coffee or tea in a common area appears at many Days Inn hotels, enabling brief refreshes while keys and directions finalize nearby. Guest rooms group a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffeemaker so light meals and first cups happen on schedule without leaving the floor. Vending banks position cold drinks, snacks, and a microwave along main corridors, covering late arrivals when neighborhood shops are closed.
Between breakfast items, Wi-Fi, and a fitness room plus pool access where available, essentials remain within steps from early to late.
Courtyard by Marriott Des Moines West Clive
The U is an uncomplicated drive from Courtyard by Marriott Des Moines West Clive, a plan that ensures travel logistics are never a concern.
In Courtyard arrivals, polished desks, concierge support, and clear signage combine to simplify orientation and reinforce brand clarity. Every suite includes sofa seating, lounge tables, and stocked minibars, providing flexibility for casual meals or informal meetings. Guests in the lobby seating encounter modular furniture, lighting, and open layouts, creating comfortable hubs for casual use.
Amenities include outdoor pools, pet-friendly policies, Wi-Fi, and meeting rooms, ensuring family routines and professional needs align.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Des Moines West, IA
For guests in Grimes, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Des Moines West, IA keeps The U within easy reach, a position that supports a variety of travel plans.
At Radisson, the lobby layout emphasizes short paths between curb, desk, and café so initial decisions remain straightforward. Each suite pairs a small dining area with a kitchenette or fridge, allowing simple in-room meals that keep families and groups on schedule. Conference suites combine projector setups, breakout alcoves, and staffed support, simplifying event logistics for planners and small teams.
Offering meetings, business services, Wi-Fi, a gym, on-site dining, and laundry, properties support both events and everyday downtime.
Best Western Plus Des Moines West Inn & Suites
The journey from Best Western Plus Des Moines West Inn & Suites to The U is a direct run, a perk that adds flexibility to any driving itinerary.
Best Western keeps a calm security presence near reception, reassuring travelers while traffic cycles through evening check-in and early departures. Standard guest rooms balance clear paths from door to bath and bed, aiding night navigation and reducing missteps in unfamiliar layouts. Guest laundries place detergent vending adjacent to machines, reducing friction so gear is ready before the next segment of the trip.
From breakfast corners, Wi-Fi, printers, and ride pickup guidance, mornings convert plans into action while routes and confirmations finalize.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive
This accessible commute to The U enables La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive to be a peaceful yet connected base before the on-site experience.
La Quinta breakfast counters located near reception simplify morning routines, providing clarity for both families and professionals. Each guest room offers sofa seating, HDTVs, and charging hubs, providing a balance of relaxation, entertainment, and connectivity. Pools surrounded by loungers, towel racks, and umbrellas create dependable spaces for both leisure and recharge during visits.
Free Wi-Fi, Bright Side Breakfast®, and laundry pair with pools and parking, keeping guest routines simple and consistent daily.
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The U Local Area Guide
Welcome to The U, a premier sports complex in Grimes, Iowa, designed for athletes and teams of all ages. This guide is your essential companion for planning your visit, whether you're a player, coach, family member, or team coordinator. Discover the most efficient ways to navigate arrival, understand the facility layout, find convenient dining, and make the most of your time in the area. We'll provide insights into local amenities and tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – The U (Grimes, IA)
The U is strategically situated in Grimes, Iowa, a growing community on the western edge of the Des Moines metropolitan area. Located off SE Gateway Drive, it offers excellent accessibility from major roadways, including Highway 141 and Interstate 35/80. Traveling to The U is straightforward, with Des Moines International Airport (DSM) serving as the primary air travel hub, approximately a 20-25 minute drive away via I-80 East. Road traffic is generally manageable, though peak event days can lead to congestion on surrounding arterial roads like Gateway Drive and 141. Plan to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before scheduled game times, especially on busy weekends, to allow ample time for parking and check-in. Public transportation options are limited in Grimes; rideshare services and personal vehicles are the most common modes of transport.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near The U
Within close proximity to The U, you'll find a cluster of hotel options, primarily located in the adjacent suburbs of West Des Moines and Waukee, as well as closer to downtown Des Moines. Many teams and families opt for accommodations that offer easy access to Highway 141 and I-80/35 for quick commutes to the sports complex. While Grimes itself is developing, the most concentrated hotel availability is found a short drive away. Booking well in advance is highly recommended, particularly during major tournament weekends, as lodging can fill up quickly. Utilizing hotel booking sites with map features can help identify properties closest to The U while also offering proximity to dining and other amenities. Consider hotels that cater to longer stays if your team is participating in a multi-day event.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Des Moines International Airport is 20-25 minutes away by car.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early on busy event days for parking and check-in.
- Explore local dining and shops in downtown Grimes or West Des Moines.
- Consider indoor family entertainment centers in West Des Moines for bad weather.
- Regroup at a nearby restaurant or community park after games or practices.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan your arrival to allow for ample parking and efficient check-in processes, especially on high-traffic event days. Arriving 30-45 minutes before your scheduled game time is advisable to navigate parking areas and locate your designated field or court without rush. Familiarize yourself with the complex layout beforehand to quickly find warm-up areas and team benches. Ensure all necessary gear, coolers, and equipment are easily accessible for a smooth transition from arrival to warm-ups. This initial window is crucial for setting a calm and organized tone for the day.
Mid-Day Regroup
Take advantage of breaks between games or practices to regroup and refuel your team. Shaded seating areas are available throughout the complex, perfect for athletes to relax and hydrate. This downtime is also an opportunity for families to connect, share snacks, or visit nearby concessions. If you have a significant gap, consider a quick trip to a nearby park or café for a change of scenery, but always be mindful of return times to avoid missing subsequent events. Utilizing this period effectively can significantly improve team morale and performance throughout the day.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As your games conclude, coordinate your team's departure to ensure efficient load-out of equipment and personal belongings. Be aware of potential traffic backups on Gateway Drive and Highway 141 as multiple events may be finishing simultaneously. Designate a clear meeting point for families and teams to gather before heading to your next destination. Consider a post-event gathering at a nearby restaurant or park to celebrate the day's efforts and allow athletes to decompress. A well-managed departure ensures a positive end to your visit.
Things to Do Near The U
Walkable
The U Complex Grounds
The U itself is a central hub for athletic activity, boasting multiple fields and courts designed for various sports. Beyond the game, the complex offers open green spaces suitable for casual strolls or pre-game stretching. While dedicated spectator amenities are primarily focused on the sports themselves, the expansive grounds provide a pleasant environment to enjoy the outdoors. Visitors can often find picnic tables or benches scattered around the perimeter, offering spots for families to relax between matches. It’s a great place to simply absorb the atmosphere of a busy sports weekend and watch games unfold.
On siteGrimes Community Park
Located a short distance from The U, Grimes Community Park offers a refreshing change of pace with its family-friendly amenities. The park features well-maintained playgrounds for younger siblings, walking paths for a leisurely stroll, and open fields perfect for casual games of catch or frisbee. It’s an ideal spot for teams to practice drills in a relaxed setting or for families to enjoy a picnic lunch away from the intensity of competition. The park’s green spaces provide ample room to spread out, making it a comfortable option for downtime during a tournament day.
150 NW 10th St, Grimes · 1.0 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Raccoon River Park
Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines is a large, multifaceted recreational area that offers a variety of activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy fishing and boating on the scenic lake, explore extensive walking and biking trails, or relax on the sandy beach. The park also features playgrounds, picnic areas, and an archery range. It’s a perfect destination for families looking for a longer outing or a peaceful escape from the sports fields. The natural beauty and diverse amenities make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking outdoor enjoyment.
2500 E. Grand Ave, West Des Moines · 7.5 miJordan Creek Town Center
This expansive outdoor shopping and entertainment complex provides a wealth of options for dining, shopping, and leisure activities. Jordan Creek Town Center features a diverse range of retail stores, from popular brands to specialty boutiques. Beyond shopping, it offers a multiplex cinema, numerous restaurants and eateries catering to various tastes, and often hosts community events. It’s an excellent option for families seeking entertainment during breaks in tournament schedules or for participants looking to unwind after a day of competition. The pedestrian-friendly layout encourages exploration and enjoyment.
101 Jordan Creek Pkwy, West Des Moines · 7.0 miBeyond the Event: For those seeking further exploration, the vibrant downtown Des Moines area is approximately a 20-minute drive east. Here, you can find the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, the Des Moines Art Center, and a lively restaurant and bar scene. The Iowa State Capitol building also offers tours and impressive architecture. These options provide a richer cultural and urban experience beyond the immediate vicinity of the sports complex.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near The U
Inside & Adjacent
Complex Concessions
Conveniently located within The U complex, these concessions offer standard stadium fare designed to keep athletes and spectators fueled throughout the day. Expect a selection of quick bites such as hot dogs, nachos, pizza slices, and assorted snacks, alongside a variety of beverages. They are the most accessible option for grabbing a quick bite without leaving the venue. Seating is typically limited to open areas or benches, making it ideal for grab-and-go meals or snacks between games.
On siteGateway Drive Area Eateries
Along SE Gateway Drive, the primary road leading to The U, you'll find several fast-casual and family-friendly dining establishments. These options typically include popular chains offering pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches, providing quick and reliable meal choices for teams on the go. Many of these spots offer ample seating and are well-suited for larger groups, making them convenient for post-game meals or refueling between tournament events. They represent the closest dining options to the complex.
SE Gateway Dr, Grimes · 0.5 miNearby Gathering Spots
Fong's Pizza (Grimes location)
Fong's Pizza in Grimes offers a unique dining experience, blending creative pizza toppings with a distinct Asian fusion twist, all within a casual and lively atmosphere. Known for its inventive combinations and extensive beer list, it's a popular spot for groups looking for something beyond traditional fare. The restaurant often features a fun, quirky decor and can accommodate various group sizes, making it a great choice for a team dinner or a relaxed meal after a long day of competition.
300 SE Lincoln St, Grimes · 1.8 miSmokey D's BBQ (West Des Moines)
Smokey D's BBQ is a beloved Central Iowa institution, renowned for its award-winning barbecue dishes. Offering a hearty menu of ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and various classic sides, it’s a perfect place for a satisfying meal. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, suitable for families and teams looking for authentic, flavorful barbecue. Whether you're dining in or grabbing takeout, Smokey D's provides a quintessential Iowa culinary experience that’s sure to please a crowd.
5225 NE 14th St, Des Moines · 6.8 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Centro
Centro, located in downtown Des Moines, offers an upscale yet approachable dining experience with a focus on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared with flair, and the vibrant atmosphere makes it a popular destination for both business lunches and celebratory dinners. With an extensive wine list and creative craft cocktails, Centro provides a refined setting for guests looking to enjoy a high-quality meal in a sophisticated urban environment. It's a great choice for coaches or families celebrating a successful tournament.
1003 Locust St, Des Moines · 12.0 miThe Machine Shed Restaurant
A distinctive Iowa dining experience, The Machine Shed is famous for its generous portions of classic American comfort food, particularly its pork chops and meatloaf. The restaurant's unique decor, filled with antique farm equipment and memorabilia, creates a nostalgic and charming atmosphere. It's a destination that appeals to those seeking a taste of hearty, home-style cooking in a memorable setting. The extensive menu ensures there’s something to satisfy every palate, making it ideal for groups wanting a robust and filling meal.
11151 Hickman Rd, Urbandale · 7.0 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Expect heavier traffic on Highway 141 and SE Gateway Drive during major event weekends; plan alternative routes if possible.
- Grimes is a developing area, so amenities like restaurants and grocery stores are concentrated near main roads; explore West Des Moines for more options.
- Weekend mornings are the busiest times at The U; consider early arrivals to secure preferred parking and avoid queues.
- Hydration is key, especially during warmer months; bring plenty of water or utilize concessions frequently.
- Check local event schedules for The U to anticipate crowd sizes and potential impacts on local traffic and lodging availability.
Weather & Seasons at The U
- Winter: Winter in Grimes is cold, with average temperatures often below freezing. Visitors should bundle up with heavy coats, hats, gloves, and warm footwear. Outdoor play is limited and weather-dependent, with a higher likelihood of snow or ice impacting travel and field conditions. Indoor events are more common during this season, and attendees should plan for colder conditions when traveling to and from the venue.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer bring milder temperatures, ideal for outdoor sports, though rain showers are frequent. Expect highs in the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit. Light jackets and layers are recommended, along with rain gear. Days are becoming longer, facilitating game schedules, but be prepared for fluctuating weather patterns, from cool mornings to warm afternoons.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer, from June through August, is typically warm to hot and humid, with daytime temperatures often reaching the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. Visitors should dress in light, breathable clothing and prioritize sun protection, including hats and sunscreen. Staying hydrated is crucial due to the heat and humidity, making water bottles and frequent visits to concessions essential for athletes and spectators.
- Fall season: Fall in Iowa offers crisp, cool air and often clear skies, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit in early fall, gradually cooling into late autumn. Layers are recommended, including sweaters or light jackets. The vibrant autumn foliage provides a picturesque backdrop for games, and weather is generally very conducive to outdoor activities before winter sets in.
- Rain & snow: Rain can occur year-round but is most common in spring and early summer. Heavy rain can lead to field closures and schedule delays. Winter brings the possibility of snow and ice, which can significantly impact travel and outdoor event access. Always check local forecasts and venue updates before heading out, and be prepared with appropriate rain gear or winter attire.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: N/A (Multi-sport complex)
- Neighborhood: Grimes
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
- Parking: On-site lots
- Walkable district: Limited on-site; nearby amenities require short drives
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Short drive to local supermarkets in Grimes or West Des Moines.
- Pharmacy: Several options within a 5-10 minute drive.
- Urgent care: Located in West Des Moines, approximately 10-15 minutes away.
- Downtime: Grimes Community Park, Raccoon River Park, Jordan Creek Town Center.
- Pro tip: Book lodging well in advance for tournament weekends; check event schedules for potential traffic impacts.

