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Top 24 Hotels Near Sports Plex West
890 Se Olson Dr Waukee, IA 50263
MainStay Suites Waukee - West Des Moines
For a trip to Waukee, MainStay Suites Waukee - West Des Moines's location a short drive from Sports Plex West is an essential element of its practical charm.
MainStay Suites keeps covered entryways and practical drop zones, enabling quick transitions from curb to lobby even in rain or heat. All suites offer multiple bedding layouts, rollaway options, and connecting room choices, providing flexibility for teams, families, and growing groups. Indoor pools and hot tubs at select hotels offer a low-effort recovery zone where families and teams can unwind after full event days together.
Between fitness corners, rooftop seating, breakfast areas, free Wi-Fi, and laundry, guests balance movement, food, and upkeep without leaving site.
Sleep Inn Waukee-West Des Moines
Within Waukee, Sleep Inn Waukee-West Des Moines is a short drive from Sports Plex West, a detail that allows the hotel to serve as a convenient hub.
Upon arrival, Sleep Inn's clear sightlines and uncluttered layout help guests orient to elevators, restrooms, and lobby services quickly. Guest rooms include premium bedding, a flat-screen TV, an in-room coffee maker and a desk to keep mornings steady and evenings calm. Fitness centers offer cardio machines, free weights and a stretching area, enabling quick workouts that preserve routine and energy levels.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, meeting rooms, a fitness center, guest laundry and a small marketplace, stays blend ease and utility.
Comfort Inn & Suites West Des Moines
This flexible location means Sports Plex West is a short drive from Comfort Inn & Suites West Des Moines, letting guests travel with ease.
Upon arrival Comfort Inn lobbies present clear sightlines to elevators and parking, reducing wayfinding and helping guests move on swiftly. Guest rooms combine quiet HVAC, sealed windows, and layered curtains to limit city noise and bright mornings, supporting reliable sleep cycles. Fitness studios sometimes add yoga mats or stretching zones, allowing light recovery work after flights or long drive days and early meetings.
Between grab-and-go shelves, lobby cafés, meeting rooms, and fitness options, quick refuels and short work blocks fit naturally during stays.
Sonesta Simply Suites Des Moines
Reaching Sports Plex West from Sonesta Simply Suites Des Moines is an easy drive, a quality that weaves convenience into the start of any day.
Upon entering, Sonesta Simply Suites offers bright lounge chairs by windows, providing a calm pause zone to reset before heading to the room. Every suite includes ergonomic seating, fast Wi-Fi, and a second TV, supporting productive days and relaxed evenings in the suite. Breakfast buffets feature hot items, fruit displays, and beverage counters, so guests can choose speed or a fuller sit-down start.
With complimentary Wi-Fi, in-suite kitchens, a grab-and-go market, fitness facilities, and meeting space, travelers combine productivity with easy upkeep.
Motel 6 West Des Moines IA
Upon leaving Motel 6 West Des Moines IA, Sports Plex West is a short drive to avoid traffic, simplifying your visit from the start.
Motel 6 staff highlight free morning coffee availability at arrival, ensuring travelers know where to reset before starting their morning plans. Each guest room provides adjustable climate control and blackout drapes, supporting restful sleep despite outside weather or light conditions. Guest laundries offer washers, dryers, and folding counters, helping longer stays keep clothing cycles predictable without off-site trips.
With guest laundry, free coffee, vending, and pools, travelers keep clothing care, courtesies, and recreation aligned daily.
Woodspring Suites West Des Moines
Because Woodspring Suites West Des Moines is a simple drive from Sports Plex West, guests can utilize a moment of fresh air before their day begins.
At WoodSpring Suites, staff verify ID and confirm stay details at the counter, making the first interaction brisk and predictable. Every guest room highlights desks, seating, and televisions, balancing productivity and leisure without leaving the room space. Business centers supply computers, internet access, and printers, enabling quick completion of tasks like forms or travel documents.
For comfort, in-room refrigerators, cable TV, laundry, and Wi-Fi provide flexible setups that maintain order and connection.
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West
When staying in Waukee, the short drive from Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West to Sports Plex West is an easy drive, allowing guests to arrive calm and prepared.
Fairfield Inn arranges bar-style counters and casual seating adjacent to reception to give an easy first unwind spot after travel. Suites integrate microwaves, fridges, and coffee service, providing families with dependable conveniences to simplify longer or shorter stays. Lobby areas highlight communal tables, modern seating, and bright décor, helping families and colleagues regroup comfortably before activities.
Amenities include hot breakfast, business center services, complimentary Wi-Fi, and market access, giving travelers practical support each stay.
Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive
The hotel's spot a simple drive from Sports Plex West gives Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive guests a direct way to manage their daily schedule.
Hampton Inn lobby coffee service underscores thoughtful care, offering guests familiar refreshments that make arrivals smoother. Each suite offers sofa beds, televisions, and armchairs, allowing families to relax together in practical and comfortable spaces. Outdoor pools with cabanas, shaded seating, and towel racks create leisure zones where guests can unwind or connect socially with ease.
Valet parking, complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi connectivity, fitness areas, and meeting rooms deliver practical amenities for modern travel.
Staybridge Suites West Des Moines by IHG
In Waukee, Staybridge Suites West Des Moines by IHG provides a location that is a short drive from Sports Plex West, letting the stay begin on a positive and convenient note.
Staybridge Suites cues arrival with a Great Room, clear elevator sightlines, and seating clusters that make first steps simple. Suites often add a separate bedroom door and a second TV, improving privacy and keeping wind-down flexible when schedules differ. Business centers group PCs, printers, and counter space so boarding passes, labels, and confirmations finish neatly on site.
With breakfast seating, tray returns, and steady coffee plus Wi-Fi and a market, morning flow stays organized during busy windows.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Des Moines - Jordan Creek by IHG
Because Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Des Moines - Jordan Creek by IHG keeps Sports Plex West an uncomplicated drive, guests can decide to begin their day with a simple commute.
Holiday Inn Express lobby seating areas include charging hubs, giving guests practical comfort while waiting or regrouping with others. All guest rooms feature plush mattresses, blackout shades, and climate control, supporting consistent and restorative nightly rest. Breakfast setups with buffets, cereals, and coffee machines create predictable routines that simplify mornings for all travelers.
Connectivity with Wi-Fi, business spaces, and breakfast service aligns with pools and laundry, ensuring guests enjoy dependable stays.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive
Sports Plex West is a simple drive of La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive, a detail that allows for easy travel to other local points.
Brightly lit lobbies at La Quinta create dependable first impressions, giving guests clarity and orientation comfort from the start. Guest rooms present branded toiletries, walk-in showers, and towels, giving travelers predictable refreshment every morning and night. Pools surrounded by loungers, towel racks, and umbrellas create leisure areas where families and individuals can relax and recharge.
Connectivity with Wi-Fi, breakfast counters, and vending areas pairs with fitness centers and pools, ensuring balanced travel routines.
Best Western Plus Des Moines West Inn & Suites
When plans in Waukee are spread out, Sports Plex West is a direct run from Best Western Plus Des Moines West Inn & Suites, letting guests arrive relaxed and on schedule.
Best Western posts concise maps and QR guides beside the desk, turning first questions into routes for dining, transit, and nearby essentials. All guest rooms keep closets, drawers, and luggage racks in reach, preventing clutter and making repacks faster on back-to-back days. Business centers keep high-speed internet and printers accessible, ensuring plans adjust quickly as routes or times change mid-trip.
Between pet-friendly policies, Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking, stays remain inclusive while movement and routine settle into rhythm.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Des Moines West, IA
For a trip to Waukee, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Des Moines West, IA's location a direct run from Sports Plex West is an essential part of its convenience.
Radisson concentrates a coffee station and market near the lobby core, giving guests an instant reset point and predictable first-hour choices. Guest rooms provide a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker set near a work surface so breakfasts and light meals slot into busy schedules. Breakfast areas present hot stations, continental choices, and communal tables, helping guests pick speed or linger over a fuller morning meal.
Offering meetings, business services, Wi-Fi, a gym, on-site dining, and laundry, properties support both events and everyday downtime.
Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines West
Within Waukee, Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines West keeps Sports Plex West an uncomplicated drive, a detail that delivers a sense of connection to the place.
Statement lighting and regional décor in Hilton Garden Inn receptions create polished design cues, setting reliable early impressions. Every guest room provides sofa beds, televisions, and ergonomic chairs, creating flexible setups for work, rest, and leisure combined. Meeting spaces with audiovisual setups, whiteboards, and flexible tables ensure collaborative productivity for group travelers.
Pet-friendly policies, hot breakfast, fitness studios, Wi-Fi connectivity, and outdoor pools provide flexibility that fits diverse needs.
Hyatt Place West Des Moines Jordan Creek
From the moment you arrive at Hyatt Place West Des Moines Jordan Creek, Sports Plex West is a direct run for a simple commute, making for an easy start.
Complimentary coffee service at Hyatt Place shows attention to guest routines, providing an accessible courtesy touch every morning. Guest rooms supply single-serve coffee makers, mini-fridges, and strong Wi-Fi, allowing guests to maintain routines without disruption. Business centers with computers, printers, and Wi-Fi offer dependable access to work essentials, supporting productivity during stays.
Pet-friendly rooms, self-parking, and breakfast service combine with Wi-Fi and fitness, making family trips smoother and stress-free.
Courtyard by Marriott Des Moines West Clive
In Waukee, Courtyard by Marriott Des Moines West Clive is situated a direct run from Sports Plex West, a spot that gives value to the guest experience.
Guests entering Courtyard notice media/work pods near the lounge, practical nooks that support quick planning or laptop tasks. Each guest room includes ergonomic desks, bedside outlets, and strong Wi-Fi, supporting productivity with reliable daily convenience. In the business zone, printers, shared desks, and computers allow professionals to complete tasks efficiently during hotel stays.
Guests access indoor pools, The Bistro, 24/7 markets, and business centers, enjoying consistent convenience across every property.
Courtyard Des Moines West / Jordan Creek
For a visit that balances a key destination with broader travel, Courtyard Des Moines West / Jordan Creek keeps Sports Plex West within easy reach.
Courtyard pairs infused water with comfortable seating, small touches that show care while giving arrivals a moment to decompress. Every suite presents hardwood finishes, lounge seating, and stocked minibars, offering stylish touches with dependable comfort. The Bistro with cocktails, small plates, and casual seating serves as a reliable hub for guests to connect and relax in the evenings.
With valet parking, pet-friendly rooms, Wi-Fi, and outdoor pools, Courtyard ensures families and professionals enjoy flexibility daily.
Days Inn by Wyndham West Des Moines / Clive
From the lobby of Days Inn by Wyndham West Des Moines / Clive, Sports Plex West is a direct run, simplifying the visit.
Lobby notices at Days Inn set expectations for quiet hours and shared spaces, helping evening flow remain orderly as guests settle. Each guest room includes a luggage bench or open shelf, keeping bags organized and walkways clear for late-night returns. Breakfast seating blends two-tops, booths, and counters with bus stations, helping lines move and trays return predictably.
Across desk space, Wi-Fi, and printers with a meeting table and coffee, labels and sign-ins complete without detours from the lobby.
Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale Tapestry Collection by Hilton
This accessible commute to Sports Plex West enables Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale Tapestry Collection by Hilton to offer a blend of convenience and calm before the stay unfolds.
Hydration points integrated into lounge areas at Tapestry hotels let guests refresh quickly while orienting themselves to the property. In-room coffee and tea setups provide personalized refreshment, letting guests enjoy a pause powered by local flavors and morning ritual. Fitness and wellness zones lend energy to shared spaces, aligning movement with boutique guest expectations and mood reset.
Free internet, flexible event spaces, concierge support, fitness centers, and on-site dining create a smooth blend of work and leisure.
Wildwood Lodge
For guests in Waukee, Wildwood Lodge keeps Sports Plex West within easy reach, a position that makes for a graceful start to any day.
Guests at Wildwood Lodge may find cozy lobby seating, eclectic design, and staff focused on providing a welcoming boutique experience. Accommodations may provide stylish interiors, premium linens, and artisanal décor that contribute to a boutique-oriented stay. Facilities may provide intimate lounges, curated cocktail bars, and art-focused décor for a refined and boutique-driven impression.
A stay often features complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, self-serve markets, and family dining, sustaining boutique convenience.
Super 8 by Wyndham Clive IA
Sports Plex West is within easy reach of Super 8 by Wyndham Clive IA, a benefit that allows the hotel to serve as an easy-to-navigate base.
Super 8 offers complimentary breakfast visible from the lobby, reinforcing predictable routines that travelers count on each morning. All guest rooms provide flat-screen TVs, ergonomic chairs, and Wi-Fi, letting travelers combine entertainment with productivity easily. Fitness centers equipped with treadmills, weights, and ellipticals support wellness routines, giving guests dependable daily balance.
Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking align with vending and laundry, giving guests consistent access to essentials across all stays.
Sheraton West Des Moines Hotel
Sports Plex West is a simple cross-town drive from Sheraton West Des Moines Hotel, a setup that ensures the trip there is a pleasant part of the experience.
Sheraton emphasizes care through rituals such as beverage service, simple touches that reduce stress and ease transitions reliably. Guest rooms feature Sheraton Signature Sleep beds, blackout curtains, and digital thermostats, ensuring restful nights across every stay. The fitness room with bikes, treadmills, and weights helps travelers sustain wellness routines and balance during their visits.
Guests access business lounges, indoor pools, full-service dining, and parking, ensuring a dependable mix of balance and comfort.
Hotel Renovo Des Moines UrbandaleTapestry Collection Hilton
From Hotel Renovo Des Moines UrbandaleTapestry Collection Hilton, Sports Plex West is a direct run, a feature that frames the stay with an initial sense of ease.
At Hilton, community seating and casual lounges encourage conversation, making lobbies natural hubs for comfort and social connection. Every suite features marble vanities, rainfall showers, and premium toiletries, creating consistent rituals of refreshment and ease. 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.
Extended Stay America Select Suites - Des Moines - Urbandale
For guests in Waukee, Extended Stay America Select Suites - Des Moines - Urbandale keeps Sports Plex West within easy reach, a position that makes for a hassle-free start to the day.
Extended Stay America's approach to pet-friendly travel removes a major barrier, making it an easy choice for animal lovers. The convenience of having a fully equipped kitchen in the hotel room is a significant benefit for guests managing a travel budget. Outdoor grills provide a taste of home, allowing guests to prepare a summer barbecue for themselves or their family while on the road.
A guest-focused approach includes a swimming pool, guest laundry, a full kitchen in every room, and a complimentary grab-and-go breakfast.
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Sports Plex West Local Area Guide
Welcome to Sports Plex West in Waukee, Iowa, a premier destination for amateur sports and community events. This guide is designed for players, coaches, families, and team coordinators to help you navigate the facility and its surroundings. We’ll cover everything from arrival and check-in to local dining and essential services, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for your team. Plan your visit with confidence, knowing all the key details about getting to, around, and from Sports Plex West.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Sports Plex West (Waukee, IA)
Sports Plex West is situated in Waukee, Iowa, a rapidly growing suburb west of Des Moines. The facility is conveniently located off I-80 and I-35, providing easy access for regional travelers. The primary access road is Southeast Olson Drive, which connects directly to the venue's parking areas. For those flying in, the closest airport is Des Moines International Airport (DSM), located approximately 20-25 miles southeast of Waukee. Drive times from the airport typically range from 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic, especially during peak hours or major event weekends. Public transportation options directly to the Sports Plex are limited, making personal vehicles or rideshares the most practical modes of transport. When arriving, follow signage for designated parking zones, which are clearly marked for teams, spectators, and staff to manage the flow of vehicles efficiently during busy periods. Consider arriving at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled start time to allow ample time for parking, check-in, and warm-ups, particularly on tournament days.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Sports Plex West
The Sports Plex West is surrounded by a developing commercial area, with most hotel accommodations situated a short drive away in Waukee or the neighboring west Des Moines suburbs. While there aren't extensive hotel clusters directly adjacent to the venue, you'll find a variety of options within a 3–5 mile radius, catering to different budgets and needs. Many teams and families opt for hotels along the Hickman Road corridor or near Jordan Creek Town Center, which offers numerous lodging choices. Demand for hotels in the area can spike significantly during large tournaments, youth sports events, and regional competitions hosted at the Plex. Booking your accommodation well in advance is highly recommended, especially if traveling for a multi-day event. Utilizing hotel map filters that show proximity to Waukee or specific sports complexes can help narrow down your search effectively. Look for hotels offering amenities like free breakfast, ample parking, and potentially shuttle services if transportation is a concern.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Des Moines International Airport is 25 minutes away by car, offering convenient access.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early to navigate parking and check-in smoothly.
- The nearby Hickman Road corridor offers dining and casual meeting spots.
- A good indoor fallback for downtime includes the Jordan Creek Town Center mall.
- The hotel lobby or a nearby casual restaurant is a practical regroup zone.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Upon arrival, teams should head directly to the designated check-in area, typically located near the main entrance or a central administrative building. Have all necessary documentation, rosters, and payment information readily available to expedite the process. Allow yourselves ample time for check-in, often 30-45 minutes before your first scheduled game, especially during busy tournament days. Once checked in, proceed to the assigned warm-up areas or fields. These zones are often marked and may be on adjacent fields or in designated open spaces. Familiarize yourselves with the facility layout, including the location of restrooms, water stations, and any immediate concessions. This initial phase is crucial for setting a positive and organized tone for your team's day.
Mid-Day Regroup
For events spanning several hours or involving significant gaps between games, effective regrouping is key. Identify a comfortable spot where your team can relax, hydrate, and refuel. This might be a designated picnic area, a shaded spot near your field, or even the hotel lobby if you have a longer break and are staying nearby. Ensure players have access to coolers with snacks and drinks, and that families have comfortable seating, perhaps with lawn chairs. Review game strategies, address any immediate concerns, and maintain team cohesion. This downtime is an opportunity to mentally reset and prepare for the next competition, making the most of the entire event day.
Wrap-Up & Departure
After your final game or event concludes, take a moment to gather your team and belongings. Ensure all personal equipment, bags, and any rented gear are accounted for before leaving the field or facility. A quick sweep of your designated team area helps maintain good sportsmanship and leaves the venue tidy for the next users. If there are any post-event awards or team photos scheduled, follow the organized process for those. For departure, be aware that parking lots can become congested immediately after major events. Allow for some patience as traffic clears, and follow directional signage from event staff or security to exit the venue efficiently.
Things to Do Near Sports Plex West
Walkable
Waukee Public Library
The Waukee Public Library offers a quiet and comfortable indoor retreat, perfect for downtime or a rainy afternoon. Visitors can enjoy free Wi-Fi, browse a diverse collection of books and media, or find a cozy spot to relax. It's an ideal location for players or families looking for a calm environment away from the hustle of the sports complex. The library often hosts community events and provides resources for local information, making it a useful stop for understanding the Waukee area better.
895 Se Cardinal Ln, Waukee · 0.3 miKettlestone
Kettlestone is a vibrant mixed-use development located adjacent to the Sports Plex, offering immediate access to a range of amenities. This area features boutique shops, local eateries, and green spaces designed for community gathering. It's a convenient spot for a quick stroll, a casual meal between games, or simply to experience the developing heart of Waukee. Kettlestone aims to be a central hub for residents and visitors, providing a lively atmosphere right on your doorstep.
Downtown Waukee, IA · On site5–15 Minutes Away
Centennial Park
Centennial Park in West Des Moines is a large, well-appointed municipal park offering extensive recreational opportunities beyond the Sports Plex. It features walking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for families to enjoy the outdoors. Visitors can engage in leisurely activities, burn off energy, or simply find a peaceful setting to relax amidst nature. It’s a popular destination for locals and provides a different outdoor experience compared to the organized sports environment.
8500 Beardshear Rd, West Des Moines, IA · 3.5 miRaccoon River Park
Raccoon River Park is a major regional park offering diverse attractions, including a large lake for fishing and boating, extensive trail systems, and a nature lodge. The park is ideal for those seeking a more expansive outdoor experience, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. It also features playgrounds and picnic sites, making it suitable for family outings. The scenic beauty and range of activities make it a refreshing escape from competitive sports environments.
2500 E Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA · 4.1 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate vicinity of Sports Plex West, the broader Des Moines metropolitan area offers numerous attractions. The downtown Des Moines area, about a 20-minute drive east, boasts the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, the State Historical Museum, and a lively entertainment district. For shopping and dining, the Jordan Creek Town Center is a significant regional mall a short drive away. These options provide varied experiences for visitors looking to explore the wider region during their stay.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Sports Plex West
Inside & Adjacent
Kettlestone Eateries
Within the Kettlestone development, located immediately adjacent to Sports Plex West, you'll find a growing selection of casual dining options. These establishments typically offer convenient fare suitable for quick meals between games or family outings. Expect options ranging from pizza and burgers to cafes and sandwich shops, providing easy access without needing to travel far from the sports complex. It's the perfect place to grab a bite before or after an event.
Kettlestone Development, Waukee · On siteSports Plex Concessions
The Sports Plex West itself features on-site concession stands that provide basic food and beverage options for attendees and participants. These stands are convenient for grabbing snacks, drinks, or simple meals during event days. While choices may be standard stadium fare, their proximity makes them the most accessible option for those needing immediate refreshments without leaving the venue premises. Perfect for fueling up quickly between matches.
Sports Plex West facility · On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Gusto Pizza Co.
Gusto Pizza Co. is a popular local spot known for its New York-style pizza, craft beer selection, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place for teams or families to gather after a game, offering generous portions and a family-friendly environment. The menu includes a variety of pizzas, salads, and appetizers, making it suitable for diverse tastes. Its location makes it an easy drive from the Sports Plex for a casual meal.
1175 SE University Ave, Waukee, IA · 1.1 miTavern Olde Town
Located in Waukee's historic downtown, Tavern Olde Town offers a more traditional pub atmosphere with a menu featuring classic American comfort food, burgers, and a good selection of drinks. It’s a solid choice for groups looking for a sit-down meal in a comfortable setting. The ambiance is casual and inviting, making it suitable for team dinners or family gatherings after a day of competition.
208 N 1st St, Waukee, IA · 2.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Crafted - A DC Restaurant
Crafted is a well-regarded restaurant in nearby Urbandale, offering a more refined dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes. Their menu features a range of contemporary American cuisine, including steaks, seafood, and unique appetizers, alongside an impressive wine and cocktail list. It’s an excellent choice for celebrating a team win or for adult groups seeking a higher-quality meal.
5023 110th St, Urbandale, IA · 4.5 miThe Machine Shed Restaurant
The Machine Shed Restaurant provides a unique, rustic dining experience with a focus on hearty, home-style American cooking, particularly known for its generous portions of pork chops, chicken, and other comfort food classics. The restaurant also features a gift shop filled with unique items. It's a destination restaurant that offers a memorable meal and a bit of nostalgic charm, suitable for groups looking for a hearty and unique dining adventure.
1555 SE Gateway Dr, Urbandale, IA · 5.2 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on SE Olson Drive can be heavy during major event start and end times; plan accordingly.
- Weekends, especially during tournament seasons, are the busiest times at the Sports Plex.
- While Waukee is growing, public transport is minimal; rideshares and personal vehicles are key.
- Hydration is essential for athletes, especially during warmer months; carry plenty of water.
- Check event schedules in advance to understand facility usage and potential crowd sizes.
Weather & Seasons at Sports Plex West
- Winter: Winter in Waukee typically brings cold temperatures, with average highs in the low 30s Fahrenheit. Snowfall is common, and icy conditions can occur, impacting outdoor play and travel. Visitors should pack heavy, warm layers, including waterproof outerwear, hats, and gloves. Outdoor activities are limited, and indoor training or events are more prevalent. Navigating to and from the venue requires caution on potentially slick roads.
- Spring & early summer: Spring weather is unpredictable, with temperatures gradually warming from the 40s to the 60s Fahrenheit. Rain showers are frequent, and occasional thunderstorms can occur. Early summer sees temperatures rise into the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit, becoming more consistently warm. Layered clothing is advisable for spring, while lighter activewear is suitable for early summer. Outdoor events begin in full swing, but occasional rain delays are possible.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer, from July through August, is characterized by warm to hot temperatures, often reaching into the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit, with high humidity. Days are long and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor sports but requiring diligent hydration and sun protection for participants. Light, breathable clothing is essential. Events run consistently, but heat advisories may affect schedules or require additional water breaks.
- Fall season: Fall brings crisp, comfortable temperatures, generally ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit in September, cooling into the 30s and 40s by November. This season is prime for outdoor sports, offering pleasant conditions for athletes and spectators. Fall foliage can be beautiful, adding to the outdoor experience. Visitors should pack layers, including sweaters and light jackets, as mornings and evenings can be cool.
- Rain & snow: Rain is a frequent occurrence in spring and can happen in other seasons, sometimes leading to field closures or delays. Visitors should always check schedules and venue communications for weather-related changes. Snowfall typically occurs from November through March, blanketing the area and making outdoor activities challenging. Road conditions can deteriorate rapidly during snow events, impacting travel times significantly.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary sports: Soccer, baseball, softball, lacrosse, multi-sport tournaments
- Neighborhood: Developing commercial corridor near suburban Waukee
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
- Parking: Ample on-site lots, with designated areas for teams and spectators
- Walkable district: Kettlestone development adjacent to the complex
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Fareway Stores, Hy-Vee (short drive in Waukee)
- Pharmacy: Walgreens, CVS (short drive in Waukee)
- Urgent care: UnityPoint Health - Waukee Clinic (near venue)
- Downtime: Waukee Public Library, Kettlestone green spaces, local parks
- Pro tip: Arrive early for tournaments to secure good parking and avoid check-in queues.

