Ankeny, Iowa, a suburb of Des Moines, is growing fast. Its proximity to Iowa’s capital and its family-friendly vibe are drawing in young professionals and families alike.
And as Ankeny grows, so does its nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a sports bar to catch the game, a brewery with local craft beers, or a cozy pub, Ankeny has something for everyone.
This article explores some of the best bars in Ankeny, Iowa, taking into account the atmosphere, drink selection, food, and overall experience. Read on to discover your new favorite spot.
Sports Bars in Ankeny
Ankeny’s got a solid selection of sports bars if you’re looking for a place to catch the game with friends. Here’s what you can generally expect:
- Big TVs and a game-day atmosphere: Most sports bars in Ankeny are tricked out with plenty of large-screen TVs, so you can see the action from anywhere in the place. They’re usually buzzing with energy on game days.
- Lots of beers and game-day grub: Wings, burgers, fries, nachos – the usual suspects are all well-represented on Ankeny sports bar menus. And you can definitely find a wide selection of beers, from your standard domestics to local craft brews.
Here are a couple of notable spots:
The Chicken Coop Sports Bar & Grill
The Chicken Coop is a long-standing Ankeny staple. They offer daily food and drink specials, and are known for their wings and friendly service. They are a popular spot for watching Iowa Hawkeyes and Iowa State Cyclones games.
Founders Irish Pub
Founders is a local favorite for catching a game. They have a wide selection of beers on tap, plus a full menu that includes pub favorites like fish and chips, burgers, and pizza. They also have live music on the weekends.
Breweries and brew pubs
Ankeny’s craft beer scene is bubbling up right along with the rest of the city. Here are a couple of spots where you can sample local brews.
Firetrucker Brewery
Firetrucker Brewery, named in honor of the city’s firefighters, has been around since 2014. They’re known for their hoppy IPAs and pale ales, as well as their stouts and lighter beers. If you’re hungry, you can order pizza, wings, or sandwiches. They also have a gluten-free menu.
Foundry Distilling Company
Okay, Foundry Distilling Company isn’t technically a brewery, but it’s close enough that it’s worth mentioning. Foundry Distilling Company is known for its unique approach to whiskey. They partner with Iowa breweries to create whiskeys distilled from the breweries’ craft beer recipes. This results in some interesting and flavorful spirits. You can also order cocktails and snacks at the bar.
Ankeny pubs and grills
Ankeny’s pubs and grills tend to be laid-back and community-oriented, so if you’re looking to unwind and maybe make a few new friends, this might be your scene.
Many of Ankeny’s pubs offer fun events like trivia nights or live music. Here are a couple worth checking out:
The Irish Pub
The Irish Pub on SE Delaware Avenue is known for its friendly atmosphere, tasty food, and great deals. It’s a popular spot for watching sports, and they have a great happy hour menu every day from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. On Tuesdays, you can get a burger and a beer for $12.99.
Firetrucker Brewery
If you’re a craft beer lover, Firetrucker Brewery on SW 3rd Street is a must-visit. This brewery has a wide selection of beers brewed on-site, as well as a food menu featuring pizzas, sandwiches, and snacks. They also offer brewery tours and host special events throughout the year, like live music and trivia nights.
Unique and Themed Bars
Sometimes you’re not just looking for “a bar.” You want a specific experience. Ankeny offers a few niche bars that cater to particular tastes, whether you’re looking for a place to sing your heart out, listen to live music, or chill on an outdoor patio.
The Kickstand
If you love bikes and beer, then you might want to check out The Kickstand. The decor is all about cycling, and they’ve got a great selection of craft beers on tap. They also have a calendar full of events, including live music, trivia nights, and bike-themed gatherings.
Firetrucker Brewery
This place is all about celebrating firefighters. With a name like Firetrucker Brewery, you know that the theme is going to be strong. They’ve got a taproom where you can sample their brews, and they often have special events and food trucks on site. Check their calendar for live music and other activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do in Ankeny at night
Ankeny offers a variety of nighttime activities! Beyond the bars and restaurants we’ve discussed, you can catch a movie at the local theater, enjoy bowling or arcade games at a family entertainment center, or explore local events happening at the Prairie Ridge Sports Complex. Check community calendars for live music, theater productions, and other seasonal events.
Who owns Whiskey River Ankeny, Iowa
Whiskey River Ankeny is owned by the Fullhouse Restaurant Group, which also owns and operates several other restaurants and entertainment venues in the Des Moines metro area. They’re known for creating lively atmospheres with a focus on entertainment and good food.
Is Ankeny Iowa nice
Many people consider Ankeny a very nice place to live! It’s consistently ranked as one of the safest and fastest-growing cities in Iowa. It offers a good balance of suburban comfort with access to urban amenities in nearby Des Moines. Families appreciate the excellent schools, parks, and community events, while young professionals enjoy the growing job market and affordable housing options. Of course, “nice” is subjective, but Ankeny generally receives positive reviews from its residents!
In Conclusion
From laid-back sports bars to upscale lounges and lively pubs, Ankeny offers a surprisingly diverse array of places to grab a drink and unwind. Whether you’re looking for a place to watch the game, enjoy live music, or simply catch up with friends over cocktails, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste.
Who says you need to head to the big city for a good night out? Ankeny proves that you can find plenty of fun and entertainment right here in the suburbs.