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Top 24 Hotels Near VAL Lanes Recreation Center
100 Ashworth Rd West Des Moines, IA
Quality Inn
In West Des Moines, Quality Inn has a commuter-friendly location relative to VAL Lanes Recreation Center, letting guests easily transition from their room to the event.
Quality Inn arrival cues—lighting, signage, staff presence, and seating—combine to create a tidy, dependable first impression on arrival. Guest rooms place outlets and USB charging near both beds and desks so devices top up overnight without interrupting sleep routines. Pool decks position loungers, shade, and towel pickup near shallow sections so family dips and quick recoveries happen without extra coordination.
With extended gym hours at many addresses, guests can squeeze in workouts before early departures or after long meeting days easily.
Extended Stay America Select Suites - Des Moines - West Des Moines
The hotel's location is a strategic choice, with VAL Lanes Recreation Center an easy drive away, framing the stay around easy automotive access.
A free grab-and-go breakfast is a consistent offering at Extended Stay America, providing a reliable and convenient morning option. The inclusion of a coffee maker in every suite means hotel guests can enjoy a fresh brew on their own time, a convenient start to the day. On-site laundry facilities are fundamental to the hotel's model, providing guests with the tools they need to live independently.
A smart amenity package including a full kitchen, guest laundry, a fitness center, and a grab-and-go breakfast caters to modern travelers.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University
From Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University, VAL Lanes Recreation Center is a simple drive, a perk that simplifies the logistics of the entire visit.
Lobby design at Home2 Suites combines colorful accents, flexible furniture, and bright lighting, creating a welcoming atmosphere daily. Guest rooms offer coffee service, streaming TVs, and bedside outlets, making it simple for guests to stay connected and comfortable. In the fitness center, cardio machines, weights, and stretching mats make it easy for guests to balance exercise and travel schedules.
Amenities like fitness centers, laundry service, Wi-Fi, and breakfast simplify extended stays, giving guests balance and dependability.
Sheraton West Des Moines Hotel
VAL Lanes Recreation Center is a simple drive from Sheraton West Des Moines Hotel, a convenience that allows for simple travel planning before the hotel experience.
In Sheraton lobbies, statement chandeliers, polished floors, and floral arrangements create luxury signals that feel consistent globally. Suites present rainfall showers, soaking tubs, and plush towels, rituals that refresh and restore travelers consistently. In the Sheraton Club Lounge, private dining, concierge service, and work areas provide premium spaces that balance comfort and productivity.
Amenities include Club Lounges, cocktail bars, Wi-Fi, and meeting rooms, highlighting a blend of productivity and social connection.
Super 8 by Wyndham Clive IA
For visitors to West Des Moines, Super 8 by Wyndham Clive IA keeps VAL Lanes Recreation Center an easy drive, a choice that supports a stress-free travel plan.
Lobby furniture at Super 8 emphasizes function, offering chairs and tables that provide comfort and practical regrouping points. Guest rooms provide flat-screen TVs, microwaves, and bedside USB ports, ensuring entertainment and device charging remain convenient. Pools with loungers, towels, and shaded seating create dependable spaces where both families and solo travelers can recharge daily.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and pools pair with fitness and parking, giving travelers predictable routines during each stay.
Wildwood Lodge
From Wildwood Lodge, VAL Lanes Recreation Center is an uncomplicated drive, a choice that makes the entire area feel more accessible.
At Wildwood Lodge, guests are often greeted with eclectic décor, intimate seating, and staff providing warm boutique-style welcomes. Guest rooms may feature eclectic décor, curated minibars, and plush bedding that emphasize a personalized and boutique-oriented retreat. Facilities typically feature artisanal cafés, eclectic lounges, and locally inspired dining that highlight boutique individuality.
A visit often offers complimentary Wi-Fi, bike storage, laundry service, and artisanal breakfast, aligning boutique ease with routines.
Days Inn by Wyndham West Des Moines / Clive
The hotel's location is ideal for straightforward travel, with VAL Lanes Recreation Center a direct run away, allowing for predictable travel times.
Days Inn keeps ADA parking and ramp access close to lobby doors, shortening the route from vehicle to counter and elevator banks. Each guest room supports streaming via HDMI and reliable Wi-Fi, so entertainment or slide review sets up quickly without extra steps. Lobby markets, where available, group coolers, utensils, and napkins near seating, making one-stop grabs tidy after check-in.
With desk space, Wi-Fi, and printers plus a meeting table and coffee, sign-ins and quick edits complete cleanly before departure.
Hotel Fort Des Moines Curio Collection by Hilton
VAL Lanes Recreation Center is an uncomplicated drive from Hotel Fort Des Moines Curio Collection by Hilton, a layout that ensures travel logistics are always straightforward.
Curio begins arrivals with visible lounge spaces and curated art displays, shaping clear orientation and introducing a boutique tone. Every guest room includes ergonomic desks, upholstered chairs, and climate control, supporting both productivity and personal comfort. Restaurants deliver farm-to-table menus, open kitchens, and wine pairings, ensuring meals are both engaging and dependable.
Complimentary internet, dining outlets, outdoor pools, gyms, and event halls simplify stays by offering variety and daily reliability.
Courtyard by Marriott Des Moines West Clive
This convenient drive to VAL Lanes Recreation Center from Courtyard by Marriott Des Moines West Clive is a key component, since it ensures a visit free of traffic concerns.
Courtyard reinforces comfort with complimentary lobby coffee service, a dependable detail that helps travelers reset after transit. Guest rooms present blackout curtains, premium bedding, and adjustable lighting, ensuring guests enjoy reliable comfort every evening. The 24/7 Market with bottled drinks, sandwiches, and packaged snacks provides practical convenience to guests at all hours.
Guests enjoy pet-friendly rooms, 24/7 markets, meeting facilities, and fitness centers, ensuring flexible comfort across extended stays.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG
This practical location means VAL Lanes Recreation Center is a simple drive from Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown by IHG, allowing for a smooth start to the day.
Communal zones in Holiday Inn Express lobbies combine lounge chairs and work tables, supporting both business and leisure routines. Suites include expanded seating, sofa beds, and multiple desks, creating adaptable setups for families or groups traveling together. Pools furnished with loungers, towel racks, and family-friendly seating create balanced recreation and relaxation during each stay.
Pet-friendly policies, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi connect with parking and laundry, ensuring travel routines remain simple.
Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport
Within West Des Moines, Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport keeps VAL Lanes Recreation Center an uncomplicated drive, a detail that emphasizes its convenient placement.
Baymont keeps ADA parking and ramp access close to lobby doors, making the route from vehicle to counter and elevators straightforward. Each guest room offers Wi-Fi included and a comfortable chair at the window, supporting reading or calls while light stays controlled. Small lobby markets, where present, group coolers, microwavables, and utensils near seating, turning short pauses into one-stop grabs.
With EV charging at participating sites, parking, and clear wayfinding plus Wi-Fi, evening returns feel efficient and straightforward.
Sleep Inn & Suites West Des Moines near Jordan Creek
This easy drive to VAL Lanes Recreation Center from Sleep Inn & Suites West Des Moines near Jordan Creek lets guests to feel more in control of their schedule in West Des Moines.
With visible signage and a compact desk layout, Sleep Inn reduces backtracking from curb to elevators, helping arrivals move efficiently. Every guest room places a roomy desk near outlets, a coffee maker, a microwave and a flat-screen TV for easy device use and downtime. Guest laundries provide washers, dryers and folding counters so longer stays remain practical and packing needs are reduced.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, EV charging at select sites, meeting rooms, fitness facilities and laundry, stays remain efficient and calm.
Des Lux Hotel
At Des Lux Hotel, VAL Lanes Recreation Center is an easy drive, a core element that connects the hotel to the area's highlights.
Guests at Des Lux Hotel may encounter artisanal touches, boutique furnishings, and complimentary refreshments for a curated arrival. Accommodations often highlight artisanal interiors, premium linens, and boutique bathrooms that create a polished and stylish impression. Amenities may present curated cocktail bars, small libraries, and stylish lounges that create a polished boutique-style environment.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, yoga mats, laundry facilities, and self-serve markets, maintaining practical balance during boutique stays.
Des Moines Marriott Downtown
Because Des Moines Marriott Downtown keeps VAL Lanes Recreation Center an uncomplicated drive, guests can enjoy a moment of quiet before their event.
Lobby markets positioned beside reception desks provide Marriott guests with immediate access to snacks, drinks, or travel necessities. All guest rooms come with mini-fridges, single-serve coffee makers, and ample desk space, helping travelers maintain routines easily. The lobby lounge includes sofas and high-top tables, creating a versatile space where travelers can relax or coordinate daily activities.
Valet parking, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast buffets connect with laundry and dining, providing consistency and simplicity during trips.
Best Western Plus Des Moines West Inn & Suites
Guests at Best Western Plus Des Moines West Inn & Suites can count on VAL Lanes Recreation Center being within easy reach as a key amenity that defines the stay.
Best Western posts concise maps and QR guides beside the desk, turning first questions into routes for dining, transit, and nearby essentials. Suites coordinate sectional seating, side tables, and reading lamps, creating relaxed conversation areas after the day’s plans are wrapped. The café counter may offer espresso drinks, teas, and packaged bites, supporting short pauses before evening events or early departures.
With laundry rooms, Wi-Fi, parking, and breakfast service, extended stays preserve polish and pace while daily needs stay on predictable rails.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive
The journey from La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive to VAL Lanes Recreation Center is a direct run, a perk that adds flexibility to any driving itinerary.
Seating areas in La Quinta lobbies provide comfort and orientation clarity, helping travelers regroup easily upon arrival. All guest rooms feature Bright Morning Beds®, blackout curtains, and climate systems, providing restful consistency night after night. Meeting spaces with breakout areas, AV setups, and movable seating offer professional groups reliable collaboration venues.
Pet policies, Wi-Fi, and Bright Side Breakfast® pair with laundry and vending, giving families dependable clarity each morning.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Des Moines West, IA
The hotel's location is a strategic choice, keeping VAL Lanes Recreation Center within easy reach and framing the stay around automotive access.
To aid wayfinding, Radisson groups the market, café, and seating in one sightline, helping guests decide to sit, eat, or grab-and-go fast. Standard guest rooms balance compact layouts with smart storage, a small fridge, and a stable desk so luggage and devices stay organized. Outdoor pool decks feature loungers, umbrellas, and seasonal attendant service, creating sunny pause points for families and solo travelers alike.
Between breakfast, market, fitness rooms, pool loungers, meetings, and parking, everyday plans remain low-friction and easy to manage.
Hotel Renovo Des Moines UrbandaleTapestry Collection Hilton
The journey from Hotel Renovo Des Moines UrbandaleTapestry Collection Hilton to VAL Lanes Recreation Center is a simple cross-town drive, a perk that contributes to a hassle-free visit.
Guests at Hilton find polished marble floors, floral accents, and bright décor, producing familiar cues that feel consistent worldwide. Suites contain sofa seating, entertainment systems, and stocked minibars, offering both relaxation and convenience for longer visits. The concierge station with visible signage, staff, and brochures ensures orientation clarity and consistent support for all travelers.
Amenities like breakfast buffets, self-parking, Wi-Fi, and 24/7 markets simplify travel and create reliable convenience for families.
Hyatt Place Des Moines / Downtown
The simple drive from Hyatt Place Des Moines / Downtown to VAL Lanes Recreation Center in West Des Moines guarantees guests can enjoy local convenience before the hotel experience.
Design details like floral displays and lighting features at Hyatt Place reinforce brand consistency and elevate arrival impressions. Each guest room offers flat-screen TVs, blackout curtains, and mini-fridges, supporting entertainment, rest, and convenience together. Lobby areas designed with soft seating and charging hubs provide orientation points where guests can regroup and recharge devices.
Meeting facilities, Wi-Fi, and Gallery dining pair with fitness rooms and pools, giving travelers convenience across all stay types.
Surety Hotel Autograph Collection
This easy drive to VAL Lanes Recreation Center helps Surety Hotel Autograph Collection guests feel more connected to the West Des Moines area.
In Autograph Collection lobbies, curated lighting, polished art, and bold décor highlight brand identity and consistent impressions. Guest rooms deliver plush pillows, blackout drapes, and premium mattresses, creating restful comfort that supports refreshed mornings. Guests visiting the rooftop terrace encounter crafted cocktails, skyline views, and lounge seating, spaces that feel premium and social.
With fitness studios, cultural lounges, Wi-Fi, and valet parking, travelers experience balance across wellness, work, and leisure.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown
The uncomplicated drive from Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Des Moines Downtown to VAL Lanes Recreation Center in West Des Moines means guests have a reliable way to arrive without confusion.
Upon arrival, Fairfield Inn directs guests toward outlet-rich communal tables and work nooks so devices can charge and plans get finalized. Guest rooms are designed with ergonomic chairs, work surfaces, and complimentary Wi-Fi, providing continuity for professional productivity. Lobby lounges contain couches, flexible chairs, and communal tables, serving as gathering hubs where social connection feels effortless.
Amenities such as fitness rooms, hot breakfast service, Wi-Fi, and business centers support productivity and balance for all guest profiles.
Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG
The hotel's spot an uncomplicated drive from VAL Lanes Recreation Center gives Holiday Inn Downtown - Mercy Area by IHG guests a easy way to manage their daily schedule.
Complimentary coffee and tea service at Holiday Inn & Suites creates care signals that ease the shift from travel to comfortable stay. Suites add expanded seating, sofa beds, and large TVs, giving families and groups dependable flexibility across extended stays. Lobby lounges featuring communal tables, soft chairs, and bright lighting deliver orientation clarity and social connection.
Free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and pools connect with business centers and parking, balancing relaxation with work routines.
Hilton Des Moines Downtown
The hotel's spot a simple drive from VAL Lanes Recreation Center gives Hilton Des Moines Downtown guests a simple method for managing their time.
Hilton greets new arrivals with complimentary coffee and tea, a dependable ritual that eases transitions and reinforces brand care. Each guest room offers Wi-Fi, USB outlets, and streaming TVs, helping travelers stay connected and entertained throughout their stay. Guests gathering in lobby seating encounter sofas, community tables, and armchairs, creating inviting hubs for social interaction.
Guests access fitness centers, indoor pools, valet parking, and Wi-Fi, reinforcing consistency and supporting wellness during travel.
Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel
In West Des Moines, Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel boasts a well-connected location to VAL Lanes Recreation Center, letting guests connect with the area before their stay begins.
Distinctive lighting fixtures in Renaissance Hotels draw attention to design identity, signaling sophistication and consistency. Suites often highlight locally sourced art pieces, custom textiles, and decorative objects, reinforcing discovery themes in everyday spaces. Club lounges offer breakfast service and evening hors d’oeuvres, supporting quiet work sessions or relaxed social encounters with ease.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, buffet breakfast, EV charging, and flexible business rooms reduce travel stress by keeping services readily available.
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VAL Lanes Recreation Center Local Area Guide
Welcome to VAL Lanes Recreation Center, a vibrant hub for family fun and friendly competition in West Des Moines. This guide is designed to help players, families, and casual visitors navigate their visit to VAL Lanes, providing practical information on nearby amenities, dining, and essential local tips. Discover how to make the most of your time, whether you're here for a league night, a birthday party, or a spontaneous outing with friends.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – VAL Lanes Recreation Center (West Des Moines, IA)
Nestled in the heart of West Des Moines, VAL Lanes is conveniently located off Ashworth Road, a major thoroughfare with easy access to Interstate 80 and 35. This central location places it within a thriving commercial and residential area, ensuring a variety of services are just a short drive away. Public transportation options, while limited, can connect you to downtown Des Moines and surrounding suburbs. For those driving, ample parking is available directly at the venue, with additional street parking if needed during peak times. Rideshare services are also readily available, making it simple to get to and from VAL Lanes without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads. Plan your arrival to account for potential traffic on Ashworth Road, especially during weekday commutes and weekend evenings when the center is most active.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near VAL Lanes Recreation Center
VAL Lanes is situated in a bustling part of West Des Moines, where a mix of retail centers, restaurants, and residential areas converge. While the immediate vicinity doesn't boast a large cluster of hotels, numerous options are available within a 5-15 minute drive, particularly along the major interstate corridors. Many visitors opt for hotels in nearby Clive or along University Avenue for competitive rates. Given VAL Lanes' popularity for parties and league play, booking accommodations well in advance is highly recommended, especially during event weekends. Utilizing hotel booking sites with map views can help identify properties closest to the venue and other desired amenities. Consider proximity to dining and entertainment when selecting your lodging to enhance your overall trip experience.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Closest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is a 20-minute drive away.
- Parking/arrival tactic: Arrive 10-15 minutes early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends or league nights.
- Walkable hangout: Nearby Hy-Vee and various casual restaurants offer options for a quick bite or coffee.
- Rainy-day fallback: Explore the nearby Jordan Creek Town Center for shopping and entertainment options.
- Regroup zone: The center's lobby area or on-site snack bar serves as a convenient meeting point.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Begin your VAL Lanes experience by heading straight to the front desk for check-in, whether you're joining a league, attending a party, or just bowling casually. Allow a few minutes for any queueing, especially during busy periods. Once lanes are assigned, take a moment to get acquainted with the equipment and the scoring system. If you're part of a group, this is a good time for everyone to gather their belongings and head to your designated area. Don't forget to grab your shoes and bowling balls before settling in.
Mid-Day Regroup
During breaks between frames or games, the center offers comfortable seating areas and a snack bar for refreshments. This is an ideal time to refuel, discuss strategy, or simply relax. If you're managing a team or a large party, designate a central spot for regrouping. The snack bar is perfect for quick bites and drinks, allowing everyone to stay energized. Keep an eye on the time to ensure you don't miss your next turn or scheduled event.
Wrap-Up & Departure
Things to Do Near VAL Lanes Recreation Center
Walkable
West Glen Town Center
Just a short stroll from VAL Lanes, the West Glen Town Center offers a modern, walkable district with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It’s a popular spot for an evening stroll, window shopping, or grabbing a casual meal. You can find boutiques, a movie theater, and lively patios, making it a pleasant destination to extend your outing or find a spot to relax before or after bowling. The atmosphere is upbeat, especially on warmer evenings, with outdoor seating options contributing to a communal feel.
Ashworth Rd & Mills Civic Pkwy, West Des Moines · 0.5 miValley Junction Historic District
Explore the charming Valley Junction area, a historic district known for its unique shops, antique stores, and locally owned restaurants. This area provides a distinct contrast to the modern West Glen, offering a glimpse into West Des Moines' past with its preserved architecture. It’s an excellent place to find unique gifts, browse antique treasures, or enjoy a meal at a family-owned eatery. The district often hosts community events and farmers' markets, adding to its appeal as a local destination.
Valley Junction, West Des Moines · 1.2 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Jordan Creek Town Center
As one of Iowa's largest shopping malls, Jordan Creek Town Center provides an extensive range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities, including a cinema and an indoor play area. It’s a comprehensive destination for shopping, catching a movie, or enjoying a diverse culinary experience. The mall offers a climate-controlled environment, making it a perfect option for a rainy or extremely cold day. Its vast selection ensures there’s something to suit almost any preference or need, from fashion to electronics.
Wown Wk, West Des Moines · 2.1 miState Historical Museum of Iowa
Located in downtown Des Moines, this museum offers a journey through Iowa's rich history, from its prehistoric origins to modern times. It provides an engaging and educational experience for all ages, with exhibits that are both informative and interactive. It's a great alternative for a cultural outing, especially if the weather is uncooperative, and offers a chance to learn about the state's heritage. Allow a couple of hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and immerse yourself in Iowa's story.
400 E Locust St, Des Moines · 6.5 miBeyond the Event: Consider a visit to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in downtown Des Moines for a unique outdoor art experience, or explore the Des Moines Art Center for impressive collections. For outdoor enthusiasts, Raccoon River Park offers extensive trails and recreational facilities, providing a natural escape within the urban landscape.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near VAL Lanes Recreation Center
Inside & Adjacent
VAL Lanes Snack Bar
Located right within VAL Lanes, this snack bar is your go-to for classic bowling alley fare. Expect casual options like pizza, hot dogs, nachos, and a variety of beverages, perfect for refueling between games or during league nights. It’s convenient for groups that don’t want to leave the facility, offering a quick and easy way to grab a bite without interrupting the fun. Seating is available, making it a comfortable spot for a casual meal.
100 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines · On siteCracker Barrel Old Country Store
Adjacent to VAL Lanes, Cracker Barrel offers a familiar comfort food experience with its country-style cooking and a gift shop. It's a reliable choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, serving hearty portions in a relaxed atmosphere. The convenience of being right next door makes it an easy option for pre- or post-bowling meals, particularly for families or groups seeking a sit-down dining experience with a variety of American classics.
100 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines · 0.1 miNearby Gathering Spots
Fuzzy's Taco Shop
Located in the West Glen Town Center, Fuzzy's Taco Shop offers a vibrant and casual atmosphere with a menu of Baja-inspired tacos, nachos, and burritos. It’s a great spot for groups looking for a lively setting and flavorful, relatively quick eats. The outdoor patio is a popular choice during warmer months, providing a place to socialize and enjoy the evening. Their eclectic menu appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it a solid choice for a relaxed meal.
West Glen Town Center · 0.5 miBricktown Brewery
Also situated in the West Glen Town Center, Bricktown Brewery provides a gastropub experience with a focus on craft beers and elevated pub fare. It’s an ideal spot for adults looking for a more sophisticated, yet still casual, dining and drinking environment. With a diverse menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, and unique entrees, it complements its selection of local and regional brews. The energetic ambiance makes it suitable for groups celebrating a victory or unwinding after an event.
West Glen Town Center · 0.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Centro
In downtown Des Moines, Centro offers an upscale dining experience in a beautifully restored historic building. The menu features contemporary American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, complemented by an extensive wine list and craft cocktails. It’s a destination for those looking for a more refined meal, suitable for special occasions or business dinners. The ambiance is sophisticated yet welcoming, making it a top choice for a memorable evening out.
1003 Locust St, Des Moines · 6.9 miGateway Market
Gateway Market is a popular neighborhood grocery store and deli known for its commitment to local and organic foods, artisan cheeses, and gourmet prepared meals. It functions as a high-quality deli and cafe, offering fresh sandwiches, salads, and hot options for dine-in or takeout. It’s a fantastic choice for visitors seeking healthier, locally sourced food in a relaxed, community-focused setting. Their selection of unique food items also makes it interesting for browsing.
2005 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines · 5.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Ashworth Road can experience significant traffic congestion during weekday commute hours and weekend evenings, so allow extra travel time.
- Weekends, especially Saturday nights, are prime time for VAL Lanes; consider making reservations for larger groups or parties well in advance.
- Local sports leagues often play during weeknights, which can increase the number of people in the facility and surrounding parking areas.
- West Des Moines has several family-friendly parks, including Raccoon River Park, which is a great option for downtime or an after-bowling picnic if weather permits.
- The Jordan Creek Town Center area offers a wide range of shopping and dining that can serve as an alternative or complement to activities closer to VAL Lanes.
Weather & Seasons at VAL Lanes Recreation Center
- Winter: Winters in West Des Moines are typically cold with average temperatures often below freezing. Snowfall is common, which can impact driving conditions, so allow extra time for travel. Indoor activities like bowling are particularly popular during this season, so expect VAL Lanes to be busy. Dress in warm layers, including a heavy coat, hat, and gloves, when venturing outdoors.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings gradually warming temperatures, with a mix of cool and mild days. While rain showers are frequent, outdoor activities become increasingly feasible. Early summer remains moderate before the peak heat sets in. Comfortable, casual clothing is suitable for this period, with a light jacket or sweater recommended for cooler evenings or breezy days.
- Mid-summer: Summers in West Des Moines are generally hot and humid, with daytime temperatures frequently reaching into the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. Staying hydrated is key, and indoor venues like VAL Lanes offer a welcome respite from the heat. Casual, lightweight clothing is best for this season, and sunglasses and sunscreen are advisable for any outdoor transit or activities.
- Fall season: Fall offers a beautiful transition with crisp air and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. This season typically sees fewer crowds for outdoor attractions but can still be busy at popular indoor spots. Layered clothing is practical, with options for sweaters and light jackets. The fall foliage can make local parks and scenic routes particularly enjoyable.
- Rain & snow: Rain is common throughout the spring and summer, often in the form of thunderstorms. Winter brings snow and ice, which can occasionally cause travel disruptions. VAL Lanes provides an excellent indoor option regardless of precipitation. Always check local weather forecasts before traveling and be prepared for changing conditions by having appropriate footwear and outerwear on hand.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: N/A (Recreation Center)
- Neighborhood: West Des Moines
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
- Parking: Ample on-site lot
- Walkable district: West Glen Town Center
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Hy-Vee (nearby)
- Pharmacy: CVS or Walgreens (nearby)
- Urgent care: Concentra Urgent Care (approx. 3 miles)
- Downtime: Local parks or Jordan Creek Town Center
- Pro tip: Book birthday parties and league nights well in advance, especially on weekends.

