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Top 24 Hotels Near Ponderosa Public Golf Course
600 S 60th St West Des Moines, IA 50266
Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines West
From Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines West, Ponderosa Public Golf Course is a brief ride, a benefit that keeps the day's main event easily accessible.
Curated décor at Hilton Garden Inn receptions reinforces consistent brand identity, giving guests polished impressions immediately. Each suite provides microwaves, refrigerators, and dining counters, letting guests prepare meals or snacks with ease during longer visits. Lobby lounges with bar service, casual seating, and natural lighting create social hubs that encourage relaxed interaction among guests.
On-site dining, fitness centers, complimentary Wi-Fi, event spaces, and breakfast buffets keep stays seamless for business or leisure.
Hyatt Place West Des Moines Jordan Creek
From Hyatt Place West Des Moines Jordan Creek, Ponderosa Public Golf Course is a short drive, giving flexible options for getting to your destination.
Seating areas with nearby charging hubs in Hyatt Place lobbies allow guests to relax, regroup, and recharge devices while waiting. Suites feature multiple TVs, sofa beds, and expanded seating areas, creating versatile layouts that fit families and business travelers. Meeting facilities offering projection systems, tables, and flexible layouts allow conferences or workshops to proceed without issues.
Pet-friendly policies, breakfast service, and Wi-Fi pair with fitness centers and parking, supporting both convenience and flexibility.
The Rewind West Des Moines Tapestry Collection by Hilton
From The Rewind West Des Moines Tapestry Collection by Hilton, Ponderosa Public Golf Course is a straightforward drive, a feature that frames the stay with an initial sense of ease.
Compact lobby markets at Tapestry properties supply convenient snacks and drinks, signaling care that simplifies the arrival routine. Each room is designed with boutique flair—textile patterns, artwork, and colors echoing local context give spaces a memorable sense of place. Fitness and wellness zones lend energy to shared spaces, aligning movement with boutique guest expectations and mood reset.
Breakfast buffets, fitness centers, pet services, free Wi-Fi, and rooftop pools deliver consistency that guests can count on.
Hampton Inn & Suites West Des Moines / SW Mall Area
The benefit of a short drive to Ponderosa Public Golf Course makes Hampton Inn & Suites West Des Moines / SW Mall Area into a starting point for a day of easy transitions.
Lobby sofa clusters at Hampton Inn create regrouping areas, giving families comfortable zones to pause before heading to guest rooms. Suites feature sofa beds, televisions, and lounge chairs, offering versatile living areas that balance family leisure with daily comfort. Meeting rooms with audiovisual setups, flexible tables, and Wi-Fi support collaboration, offering groups productive environments.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, laundry access, indoor pools, and Pavilion Pantry offerings ensure ease that keeps routines simple.
Homewood Suites by Hilton West Des Moines / SW Mall Area
In West Des Moines, Homewood Suites by Hilton West Des Moines / SW Mall Area boasts a accessible location to Ponderosa Public Golf Course, letting guests connect with the area before their stay begins.
Homewood Suites places infused water stations near reception, giving weary guests a refreshing detail that signals attentive hospitality. Guest rooms include blackout curtains, premium bedding, and adjustable thermostats, helping ensure restful and personalized sleep nightly. Fitness centers offering ellipticals, weights, and mats support guests who want to balance cardio and strength during hotel stays.
Guests access fitness centers, laundry facilities, Suite Shop®, and business services, ensuring productivity and comfort on site.
Sleep Inn & Suites West Des Moines near Jordan Creek
Ponderosa Public Golf Course is a short drive from Sleep Inn & Suites West Des Moines near Jordan Creek, a convenience that ensures the journey there is as simple as the stay itself.
Sleep Inn keeps the lobby workflow intuitive with a straight path from entrance to elevators, minimizing backtracking after keys. All guest rooms balance a work-ready desk, blackout curtains, a coffee maker and free Wi-Fi, helping guests settle in quickly. Breakfast areas place hot stations, covered grab-and-go bags and mixed seating so early departures and families are both covered.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, an indoor pool, a fitness center, guest laundry and meeting rooms, stays combine calm and convenience.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Des Moines - Jordan Creek by IHG
At Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Des Moines - Jordan Creek by IHG, being an easy drive from Ponderosa Public Golf Course is a practical aspect that simplifies event-day travel.
Statement lighting and natural finishes inside Holiday Inn Express lobbies establish recognizable brand cues across properties worldwide. All guest rooms contain ergonomic chairs, spacious desks, and fast Wi-Fi, enabling professionals to maintain effective routines. Fitness facilities with cardio machines, free weights, and mirrors enable travelers to maintain wellness and balance away from home.
Complimentary breakfast, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi connect with pools and laundry, keeping travel routines clear and consistent.
Sheraton West Des Moines Hotel
This versatile location means Ponderosa Public Golf Course is a short drive from Sheraton West Des Moines Hotel, letting guests travel with ease.
Guests at Sheraton encounter infused water stations near reception, a thoughtful detail that refreshes travelers and eases orientation. Every suite offers walk-in closets, curated minibars, and hardwood finishes, providing luxury details that complement practical design. At the lobby lounge, couches, armchairs, and bright finishes create welcoming areas for travelers to regroup or work comfortably.
With self-parking, EV chargers, restaurants, and Club Lounges, Sheraton maintains flexible and dependable services across properties.
Motel 6 West Des Moines IA
Ponderosa Public Golf Course is an easy drive from Motel 6 West Des Moines IA, a detail that makes the hotel a sensible and well-placed choice.
Motel 6 seating clusters support brief planning, allowing families or groups to coordinate activities while one member handles check-in. All guest rooms combine quiet HVAC, blackout drapes, and supportive bedding, aligning comfort elements that matter most on the road. Vending setups near lobbies include both snack and drink machines, making quick errands easy when energy runs low in the evening.
With accessible rooms, Wi-Fi, parking, and coin laundry, properties support inclusivity while sustaining connectivity and practical routines.
Sonesta Simply Suites Des Moines
Guests at Sonesta Simply Suites Des Moines can appreciate the easy drive to Ponderosa Public Golf Course as a defining perk of their stay.
At reception, Sonesta Simply Suites balances service with adjacent seating and outlets, offering an easy landing place for groups and solo guests. Every suite balances kitchen function, a second seating area, and sightlines between bed and living zone for multitasking comfort. Meeting foyers provide registration tables, coat racks, and casual seating clusters, aiding smooth pre-event flow and quick pre-meeting prep.
For families and teams, kitchen-equipped suites, pool access, laundry services, meeting rooms, and parking come together to reduce coordination work.
Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive
At Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive, being a quick drive from Ponderosa Public Golf Course ensures a simple commute, enhancing the stay.
Community tables inside Hampton Inn receptions serve as flexible hubs, supporting group coordination and relaxed guest interaction. All guest rooms include rainfall showers, vanities with lighting, and premium toiletries, delivering refreshment that feels comfortable. Outdoor pools with shaded tables, lounge chairs, and towel racks create recreation zones that balance social connection with leisure.
Business lounges, complimentary internet, breakfast bags, outdoor pools, and self-parking deliver balanced amenities for guest stays.
Staybridge Suites West Des Moines by IHG
From Staybridge Suites West Des Moines by IHG, the brief drive to Ponderosa Public Golf Course is a core principle of accessibility straightforward that defines the beginning of the stay.
Before evening hours, Staybridge Suites stages The Social in the Great Room, arranging stations and seating so conversations flow naturally. Every suite sets a living area with a sleeper sofa and HDTV, creating space to unwind, stream, and organize belongings between outings. Indoor pools post depth markers, ladders, and towel stations, creating a calm cooldown window that’s close to elevators and restrooms.
With a 24/7 Pantry market, microwaves, and utensils plus free Wi-Fi, guest laundry, and seating, late arrivals still manage snacks efficiently.
Woodspring Suites West Des Moines
Reaching Ponderosa Public Golf Course from Woodspring Suites West Des Moines is a quick drive, a quality that weaves simplicity into the guest's daily routine.
At select properties, WoodSpring Suites provides free coffee in the lobby, a courtesy that softens the transition from road to room. Guest rooms emphasize cupboards, counters, and sink space, allowing travelers to maintain food routines consistently throughout stays. Fitness rooms include open areas for stretching alongside machines, giving guests a balanced approach to exercise on longer stays.
For guests managing routines, kitchens, laundry, Wi-Fi, and fitness rooms work together to maintain independence and balance.
Comfort Inn & Suites West Des Moines
This accessible drive to Ponderosa Public Golf Course permits Comfort Inn & Suites West Des Moines to provide a convenient yet peaceful setting before the stay unfolds.
After travel Comfort Inn reception areas commonly offer quick access to water, coffee, or a grab-and-go shelf for simple refreshment. Standard guest rooms often include a microwave and fridge, so late arrivals can keep snacks and medications without hunting for stores. Meeting rooms provide adaptable layouts, AV hookups, and on-site catering options so briefings and small events run smoothly and on schedule.
With fitness centers, towel service, pools, and lounge seating, recovery and unwind fit neatly between meetings and travel legs.
Super 8 by Wyndham Clive IA
The hotel is a quick drive from Ponderosa Public Golf Course, making the trip simple for guests.
Lobby vending and market areas at Super 8 stock snacks, drinks, and essentials, supporting convenient routines without leaving the hotel. Guest rooms emphasize branded toiletries, showers, and towels, refreshing personal routines with predictable clarity every day. Business spaces containing workstations, Wi-Fi, and printers create functional hubs where travelers can remain productive easily.
Complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and pet accommodations pair with parking and pools, simplifying family routines during trips.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive
For a trip to West Des Moines, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive's location a short drive from Ponderosa Public Golf Course is an essential element of its practical charm.
Communal seating at La Quinta provides casual spaces where guests can connect socially or regroup after long days of travel. Each guest room features sofa seating, HDTVs, and USB charging, blending relaxation, entertainment, and convenience seamlessly. Lobby seating areas decorated with murals, soft chairs, and bright finishes provide orientation clarity and refreshed brand cues.
Pet-friendly stays, Wi-Fi, and breakfast counters pair with vending and parking, simplifying daily family travel routines.
Best Western Plus Des Moines West Inn & Suites
Because Best Western Plus Des Moines West Inn & Suites is a straightforward drive from Ponderosa Public Golf Course, guests can appreciate a low-key journey before their day begins.
With bell carts staged by the entry, Best Western keeps lanes clear so luggage moves quickly and families step forward in an orderly rhythm. Guest rooms, with pillow variety, breathable linens, and steady climate, help muscles recover so wake-ups feel steadier across consecutive nights. Fire pits or patio clusters at some properties invite brief evening meetups, adding warmth to quick conversations before rest.
From breakfast areas and lobby markets to Wi-Fi, microwaves, and mini-fridges, quick meals and connectivity keep first hours clear and steady.
Wildwood Lodge
Guests at Wildwood Lodge can count on the short drive to Ponderosa Public Golf Course as a key perk that frames their entire stay.
Wildwood Lodge often greets arrivals with intimate seating, artisanal touches, and boutique décor that frame a personalized welcome. Accommodations may provide curated furnishings, plush bedding, and bathrooms with boutique finishes for a refined experience. Shared spaces typically highlight art installations, artisanal cafés, and small dining rooms that reflect boutique-style creativity.
Accommodations often showcase Wi-Fi, artisanal breakfast, pet allowances, and bike storage, creating flexibility for diverse routines.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Des Moines West, IA
This simple drive to Ponderosa Public Golf Course helps Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Des Moines West, IA guests get more connected to the West Des Moines area.
Radisson sets upfront lobby pathways from curb to desk and market, creating a short arrival flow that reduces first-hour wayfinding friction. Every suite supplies extra linens, a sofa bed, and separate seating so small groups can balance remote work, meals, and evening rest without friction. Breakfast lounges pair counter service, comfortable chairs, and visible menus, enabling a quick meal or a relaxed sit-down before a busy day.
With hot-morning choices, free internet, a gym, conference rooms, a market, and parking, trip logistics become simpler to plan and use.
Days Inn by Wyndham West Des Moines / Clive
The journey from Days Inn by Wyndham West Des Moines / Clive to Ponderosa Public Golf Course is a straightforward drive, a benefit that contributes to a cohesive and convenient visit.
At Days Inn, open sightlines connect entrance, desk, and elevators, turning the first walk into a short, direct route with minimal backtracking. All guest rooms keep a refrigerator ready for drinks and leftovers, maintaining budgets while evenings remain flexible after meals. Patio tables and wind screens provide a comfortable outdoor option within steps of the lobby when fresh air and sunlight fit the day.
Wi-Fi, a breakfast item, and a fitness room connect with a pool and business corner, keeping starts clear and cooldowns close to elevators.
Extended Stay America Select Suites - Des Moines - West Des Moines
For travelers with a car-centric itinerary, Extended Stay America Select Suites - Des Moines - West Des Moines is a simple drive from Ponderosa Public Golf Course, making it a smart anchor for exploring the area.
By allowing pets, Extended Stay America provides a more home-like and less restrictive travel option for guests on extended trips. The generous counter space in the kitchen area of each suite provides plenty of room for meal prep, adding to the room's functionality. Ice machines and vending areas are available 24/7, ensuring that guests can always access a cold drink or a quick, easy snack.
With free parking, a pet-friendly policy, a full kitchen, and a fitness center, the hotel's commitment to practical comfort is clear.
Hotel Renovo Des Moines UrbandaleTapestry Collection Hilton
Because Hotel Renovo Des Moines UrbandaleTapestry Collection Hilton keeps Ponderosa Public Golf Course an uncomplicated drive, guests can utilize a moment of quiet before their event.
Guests visiting Hilton notice polished reception desks, clear signage, and concierge support, details that simplify arrival processes. Guest rooms feature plush bedding, blackout curtains, and adjustable thermostats, giving travelers restful comfort each evening. At the indoor pool, loungers, towels, and warm lighting provide spaces where travelers can refresh and recharge between busy days.
Amenities like breakfast buffets, self-parking, Wi-Fi, and 24/7 markets simplify travel and create reliable convenience for families.
Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Ponderosa Public Golf Course is within easy reach of Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale Tapestry Collection by Hilton, a feature that allows for easy travel to other local points.
Curated décor with local accents across Tapestry receptions conveys attention to detail that frames a memorable and authentic welcome. Guest rooms include work desks or compact workspaces, ensuring ease for business travelers needing focus and comfort within their rooms. Outdoor patios presented with regional artifacts offer ambiance that connects communal spaces to local heritage.
Dining outlets, Wi-Fi connectivity, EV charging, meeting rooms, and hot breakfast cover routines that simplify every journey.
Sleep Inn Waukee-West Des Moines
The journey from Sleep Inn Waukee-West Des Moines to Ponderosa Public Golf Course is a simple cross-town drive, a benefit that contributes to a hassle-free visit.
With a modest scale and straightforward furnishings, Sleep Inn's lobby feels accessible, helping solo travelers feel comfortable right away. Guest rooms come with premium bedding, a flat-screen TV, a microwave and a visible desk area for planning days or winding down. The lobby often combines seating clusters, local information racks and contactless kiosks to streamline orientation and check-in flow.
From complimentary Wi-Fi and hot morning breakfast to a fitness room, business center, vending and laundry, trips keep routines intact.
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Ponderosa Public Golf Course Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Ponderosa Public Golf Course guide, designed for golfers, tournament participants, and families visiting the West Des Moines area. This guide provides essential information for planning your visit, from understanding the local landscape to navigating dining and activity options. Discover how to make the most of your time on and around the course, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for your foursome or group.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Ponderosa Public Golf Course (West Des Moines, IA)
Ponderosa Public Golf Course is situated in West Des Moines, Iowa, a vibrant suburban area just southwest of downtown Des Moines. Its location along South 60th Street offers convenient access from major thoroughfares like I-235 and Highway 5. The course is part of a generally accessible urban and suburban grid, making it relatively straightforward to reach from various points in the metro area. Parking is typically available on-site at the golf course, and dedicated lots are the primary access point for vehicles. For those arriving from further afield, the closest major airport is the Des Moines International Airport (DSM), located about a 15-20 minute drive northeast of the course, depending on traffic. Travelers can expect standard city traffic patterns, with potential for congestion during peak commute hours on I-235 or along major arterial roads like Grand Avenue or University Avenue. Rideshare services are readily available in the Des Moines metro area, providing a convenient alternative to driving and parking for some visitors. Smart arrival tactics for Ponderosa often involve planning to arrive 30-45 minutes before your tee time to allow ample time for check-in, warm-up, and navigating any unexpected delays.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Ponderosa Public Golf Course
The Ponderosa Public Golf Course is nestled within a suburban landscape characterized by residential neighborhoods, local businesses, and other recreational facilities. While Ponderosa itself is the main attraction for golfers, nearby hotel clusters are primarily found a short drive away in the broader West Des Moines and Jordan Creek areas. These clusters offer a range of accommodations, catering to different budgets and preferences, and are generally a 5-10 minute drive from the golf course. Most visitors will find that hotels are not directly walkable from Ponderosa, necessitating a short drive or rideshare. Groups often opt for hotels in areas that provide easy access back to I-235 for wider city exploration or closer proximity to dining and entertainment options after their round. Demand for accommodations can spike around local amateur tournaments, league championships, or during popular golf seasons. Practical booking tactics include reserving rooms well in advance, especially if traveling for a specific event, and utilizing map filters to identify hotels within a convenient driving distance of the course. Consider flexible dates if possible to potentially secure better rates.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is approximately a 15-20 minute drive from the course.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early for check-in, warm-up, and to avoid last-minute rush.
- Enjoy a casual meal at a local diner or sports bar near the golf course after your round.
- Visit the Jordan Creek Town Center for indoor shopping and entertainment options if weather is inclement.
- The course clubhouse and patio offer a relaxed spot for your group to gather and debrief after playing.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan to arrive at Ponderosa Public Golf Course at least 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled tee time. This buffer allows ample time to check in at the pro shop, settle any fees, and locate your starting hole. Utilize the practice green and driving range to get your swings dialed in before heading out. Gathering your group here beforehand can ensure everyone is ready and on schedule.
Mid-Day Regroup
After completing your front nine, your group might appreciate a brief pause. The clubhouse offers restrooms and a place to grab a beverage or snack. Consider this a good moment to rehydrate and strategize for the back nine, especially if playing in warmer conditions. The course layout facilitates a relatively smooth transition between nines without excessive travel time.
Wrap-Up & Departure
Upon finishing your round, make your way back to the clubhouse for any post-game activities or refreshments. Many golfers enjoy discussing their performance on the patio or in the grill area. Returning rental equipment and settling any outstanding balances are the final steps. Plan your departure considering potential traffic on local roads, though congestion is generally minimal outside of peak commuter times.
Things to Do Near Ponderosa Public Golf Course
Walkable
Ponderosa Public Golf Course Clubhouse
The heart of your golfing experience is the Ponderosa Public Golf Course Clubhouse. It serves as the central hub for check-in, equipment rentals, and purchasing golf essentials. Inside, you’ll find friendly staff ready to assist with tee times and course information. The clubhouse also features a pro shop stocked with apparel and accessories, as well as a casual dining area and bar perfect for grabbing a post-round drink or a quick bite to refuel. It’s the ideal starting and ending point for any golf day here.
On sitePonderosa Practice Facilities
Complement your round with access to Ponderosa's dedicated practice areas. The facility typically includes a putting green and often a driving range, allowing players to warm up their swings before hitting the course or to work on specific aspects of their game. These facilities are conveniently located near the clubhouse, making it easy to transition from practice to your tee time. Sharpening your skills here can help ensure you’re ready to tackle the course challenges from the first hole.
On site5–15 Minutes Away
Jordan Creek Town Center
Just a short drive from Ponderosa, Jordan Creek Town Center offers a comprehensive retail, dining, and entertainment experience. This large indoor mall features a wide array of shops, from popular department stores to boutique fashion retailers. Beyond shopping, visitors can find a movie theater, numerous restaurants catering to diverse tastes, and various entertainment venues. It's a great destination for a change of pace, especially if looking for indoor activities or a wide selection of dining options after your golf outing.
2.2 miWest Glen Town Center
West Glen Town Center provides an outdoor, walkable environment with a mix of retail shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This area is designed for leisurely strolls, with unique storefronts and a lively atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for dining, catching a movie, or enjoying seasonal events. The center offers a more boutique shopping experience compared to larger malls and is known for its vibrant nightlife and restaurant scene, making it a pleasant stop for an evening out.
3.5 miBeyond the Event: For those seeking more active pursuits, the Des Moines area boasts extensive trail systems along the Des Moines River, perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. Several metro parks also offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, including disc golf and picnicking. A short drive into downtown Des Moines opens up cultural attractions like the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and the Des Moines Art Center.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Ponderosa Public Golf Course
Inside & Adjacent
Ponderosa Grill
Located conveniently within the Ponderosa Public Golf Course Clubhouse, the Ponderosa Grill is the prime spot for golfers to enjoy refreshments and meals. It offers a relaxed atmosphere where players can grab breakfast before a morning tee time, a quick lunch between nines, or a celebratory drink after finishing their round. The menu typically features classic American fare and beverages, making it an essential part of the Ponderosa golf experience for convenience and camaraderie.
On siteThe Rookery Pub & Eatery
The Rookery Pub & Eatery is a popular local spot situated a short drive from Ponderosa, offering a relaxed pub atmosphere with a diverse menu. Known for its hearty pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, it's a great place for groups to gather after a game. They also feature a selection of craft beers and other beverages, making it ideal for unwinding and discussing your round. Its convenient location makes it an easy choice for a casual meal.
1.8 miNearby Gathering Spots
Sports Page Grill
Sports Page Grill is a well-regarded neighborhood establishment in West Des Moines that provides a comfortable setting for enjoying American comfort food and watching sports. With numerous screens and a lively, friendly vibe, it’s an excellent destination for sports enthusiasts and groups looking for a casual dining experience. The menu offers a wide range of familiar dishes, from appetizers to entrees, complemented by a good selection of drinks. It’s a reliable spot for a satisfying meal and good company.
2.0 miLos Tres Amigos Mexican Restaurant
For those craving international flavors, Los Tres Amigos Mexican Restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere and authentic Mexican cuisine. Located a few minutes from the golf course, it's a perfect spot for groups to enjoy flavorful dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas, along with refreshing margaritas. The restaurant provides a festive setting for a more energetic dining experience, suitable for celebrating a successful day on the links or simply enjoying a hearty meal together.
2.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Americana
Americana offers a more refined dining experience with a focus on creative American cuisine, situated a short drive from Ponderosa in a scenic riverfront setting. The restaurant is known for its upscale yet approachable menu, featuring seasonal ingredients and well-executed dishes. It’s an excellent choice for a group celebrating a special occasion or seeking a higher-end meal after a day of golf. The ambiance is sophisticated, and the service aims to provide a memorable dining experience.
3.8 miCentro Restaurant & Bar
Centro Restaurant & Bar is a popular West Des Moines eatery that blends Italian-inspired dishes with a lively bar scene. Located within a 10-minute drive, it’s celebrated for its handcrafted cocktails, diverse wine list, and an eclectic menu featuring wood-fired pizzas, pastas, and modern American plates. The energetic atmosphere makes it a great spot for groups looking for both excellent food and a social setting. It’s a fantastic option for an elevated casual dining experience.
3.9 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on surrounding roads like Grand Avenue can become heavy during weekday morning and evening commutes from downtown West Des Moines.
- Weekend afternoons, especially during warmer months, might see increased local traffic around popular parks and shopping areas.
- Be aware of reduced speed limits and increased pedestrian activity near major commercial centers like Jordan Creek Town Center.
- Golf cart path etiquette and course rules should be reviewed at check-in to ensure smooth play on the course.
- Reservations for popular dinner spots are highly recommended, particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings, and around local events.
Weather & Seasons at Ponderosa Public Golf Course
- Winter: Winter in West Des Moines typically brings cold temperatures, with highs often struggling to get above freezing and lows plunging well below. Snowfall is common, which can blanket the course and make play impossible for extended periods. Visitors should pack heavy layers, including insulated jackets, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. Visibility can be reduced during snow events, and travel to and from the course may be impacted by road conditions.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer weather can be quite variable, ranging from cool and crisp to warm and humid. Highs in the 60s and 70s are common, but occasional cooler fronts or heat waves can occur. Layers are advisable for early spring mornings, while lighter clothing is suitable for warmer afternoons. Outdoor activities like golf are generally pleasant, but occasional thunderstorms can bring heavy rain and lightning, necessitating a pause in play.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer (July and August) is characterized by heat and humidity, with highs frequently reaching the 80s and 90s. Sunscreen, hats, and light, breathable clothing are essential for comfort and protection. Staying hydrated is paramount, with frequent stops for water or sports drinks on the course. Afternoon thunderstorms are also a possibility, so keeping an eye on the sky and being prepared to seek shelter is wise.
- Fall season: Fall in West Des Moines offers cooler, more pleasant temperatures, with highs typically in the 50s and 60s, making it a prime season for golf. The crisp air and changing autumn leaves create a beautiful backdrop for a round. You’ll want to pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings, but lighter attire is often suitable during peak daylight hours. The chance of rain persists, but severe storms are less frequent than in summer.
- Rain & snow: Rain is possible year-round but more frequent in spring and summer. Heavy downpours can lead to temporary course closures or delays due to waterlogged conditions. Snow is a winter phenomenon, and significant accumulation will halt golf activity entirely. Always check course conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, as precipitation can significantly impact playability and travel safety.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: N/A (Public Golf Course)
- Neighborhood: Southwest West Des Moines
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
- Parking: On-site at the clubhouse
- Walkable district: Limited to course facilities
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Hy-Vee and Fareway nearby
- Pharmacy: Walgreens and CVS within 2-3 miles
- Urgent care: Broadlawns Medical Center (Urgent Care) within 5 miles
- Downtime: Jordan Creek Town Center or local parks
- Pro tip: Book tee times in advance, especially for weekends or group outings.

