Drake University

Things to do near Drake University

Drake University offers a variety of enjoyable activities and attractions for visitors, including engaging sports events, vibrant festivals, and exciting basketball games. Additionally, the surrounding area provides excellent sightseeing opportunities that showcase the local culture and scenery, making it a perfect destination for tourists seeking both leisure and exploration.

Shopping

For shopping near Drake University, visit Merle Hay Mall, just 4.8km away, offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. The Downtown Farmers' Market, located 3.2km away, is perfect for local goods. If you're up for a drive, Valley West Mall is about 8.0km away, providing a similar experience.

Recreation

At Principal Park, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere while enjoying a game. Val Air Ballroom offers an entertaining music experience, perfect for a lively night out. For a tranquil outdoor escape, Waveland Municipal Golf Course provides scenic views and a refreshing round of golf, just 1.6km away.

Adventure

At Air Lanes Bowling Center, 6.4km from Drake University, enjoy thrilling bowling nights with friends. The Greenbelt Trail, located 8.0km away, offers scenic hiking adventures amidst nature. For an adrenaline rush, visit Pole Position Raceway, 12.9km from the university, where you can race go-karts in an exciting setting.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Drake University by visiting Hoyt Sherman Place and Des Moines Community Playhouse, both offering cultural performances just 1.6km away. For an outdoor experience, enjoy the Lauridsen Amphitheater, located two miles away, where you can soak in family-friendly entertainment under the stars.

Find the best attractions near Drake University

Within and around Drake University, visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including event venues, entertainment arenas, and fairgrounds. These points of interest offer a rich cultural experience and are perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're attending a conference or enjoying a local show, there's something to suit every traveller's preference in this vibrant area of Des Moines.

• Wells Fargo Arena: Located only 3.2km from Drake University, this vibrant arena hosts a variety of family-friendly events, from concerts to sporting matches. The lively atmosphere is perfect for an exciting night out.
• Iowa State Fairgrounds: Situated 9.7km away, the fairgrounds come alive with outdoor festivities and family-oriented activities. Experience the charm of local culture, food, and entertainment, especially during the famed Iowa State Fair.
• Iowa Events Center: Just 3.2km from Drake, this versatile venue is ideal for conferences and business events. Its modern facilities and professional environment make it a hub for networking and corporate gatherings.

Best time to go to Drake University

The best time to visit Drake University can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Drake University falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Drake University falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	24.1°F (-4.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
August	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
November	40.5°F (4.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	29.3°F (-1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Drake University

To save money on your visit to Drake University, consider travelling during the off-peak months of November to January when accommodation prices are lower. Aim to book your stay on a Monday, the cheapest day. Use Expedia to compare prices and refine your preferences, filtering for eco-certified hotels to find sustainable options. Consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for better deals. Additionally, explore free activities in the area, and take advantage of public transport to save on travel costs.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Drake University are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Drake University is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Drake University is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation at Drake University with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.