Discover a delightful dining experience at Cafe at the Meadows, nestled within the vibrant Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack & Hotel in Altoona, IA. Whether you're fueling up for a thrilling day at the casino or winding down after an exciting horse race, our inviting cafe offers a perfect escape. Savor our diverse menu of fresh, flavorful dishes—from hearty breakfast options to delectable dinner entrees, all crafted with care and quality ingredients. Enjoy the warm, welcoming ambiance and exceptional service that make each visit memorable. Conveniently located at 1 Prairie Meadows Dr, Cafe at the Meadows is your go-to destination for delicious cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere. Join us for a meal and experience the charm of Altoona's best-kept culinary secret. 

Cafe at the Meadows

Discover excitement and luxury at Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack, & Hotel, located in the heart of Altoona, Iowa. Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Prairie Meadows offers something for everyone. Our state-of-the-art casino features over 1,700 slot machines, 50+ table games, and a thrilling poker room. Enjoy live thoroughbred and quarter horse racing, or place your bets on simulcast events from tracks nationwide. After a day of action, retreat to our elegantly appointed hotel rooms or indulge in exquisite dining at our on-site restaurants. With endless entertainment options, live music, and top-notch guest amenities, Prairie Meadows is your ultimate destination for gaming, racing, and relaxation. Join us and experience unparalleled excitement and hospitality today at 1 Prairie Meadows Dr, Altoona, IA. Your adventure awaits! 

Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack, & Hotel

Step into flavor-filled goodness at Jethro’s ‘n Jakes Smokehouse Steaks, located at 2601 Adventureland Dr, Altoona, IA. Celebrate every bite with our melt-in-your-mouth, slow-smoked meats and perfectly seared steaks, each seasoned to perfection. Whether you're craving our award-winning ribs or succulent brisket, our extensive menu caters to all taste buds. Enjoy a friendly and relaxed atmosphere ideal for family gatherings, date nights, or catching up with friends. Our expertly crafted cocktails and handpicked selection of local brews complement our dishes, enhancing your dining experience. With warm hospitality and an enchanting, rustic ambiance, Jethro’s ‘n Jakes is more than just a meal; it's a culinary adventure. Join us and discover why we’re Altoona’s go-to smokehouse destination! 

Jethro’s ‘n Jakes Smokehouse Steaks

Discover Spectators Sports Bar & Grill, the premier destination for sports enthusiasts and food lovers alike, located at 3200 Adventureland Dr, Altoona, IA. Catch all the big games on our multiple HD screens, ensuring you won’t miss a single play. Indulge in our mouth-watering menu featuring hearty burgers, sizzling wings, and a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails. Whether you're celebrating a win, enjoying a night out with friends, or simply looking for a fantastic meal in an energetic atmosphere, Spectators Sports Bar & Grill has got you covered. Join us for unforgettable game-day experiences, unbeatable happy hour deals, and top-notch service that keeps you coming back for more. Elevate your sports viewing experience at Spectators, where great food and amazing moments go hand in hand! 

Spectators Sports Bar & Grill

Adventureland Park in Altoona, IA is your ultimate thrill destination! Located conveniently at 305 34th Ave NW, this premier amusement park offers over 100 exciting rides, captivating shows, and invigorating water attractions. Perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike, Adventureland features heart-pounding roller coasters, immersive live entertainment, and a bustling water park with slides and lazy rivers. Younger guests will adore the charming kiddie rides and engaging characters. With an array of dining options, shopping, and seasonal events, there's never a dull moment. Experience endless smiles, laughter, and adventure at Adventureland Park - where every day is packed with fun and excitement guaranteed to create treasured memories for all ages! 

Adventureland Park

Welcome to Burger Shed Restaurant in Altoona, your ultimate destination for gourmet burgers and crafted comfort food. Located at 500 Bass Pro Dr NW, our rustic, yet modern eatery invites you to indulge in mouth-watering, hand-crafted burgers made with the freshest ingredients. From our signature Shed Burger to innovative weekly specials, our diverse menu offers something for everyone. Pair your meal with a selection from our curated craft beer and cocktail list for a dining experience you won’t forget. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Burger Shed is the perfect spot to unwind, enjoy great food, and create lasting memories. Join us for lunch, dinner, or a weekend get-together! 

Burger Shed Restaurant Altoona

Discover premier shopping at the Outlets of Des Moines, located at 801 Bass Pro Dr NW, Altoona, IA. Our vibrant retail destination offers over 50 top-brand stores, including Nike, Coach, Under Armour, and Michael Kors, all providing exceptional discounts. Nestled in a family-friendly environment, the Outlets of Des Moines features not only an array of fashion, accessories, and home goods but also delectable dining options to satiate every palate. Enjoy a seamless shopping experience with ample parking, delightful seasonal events, and unparalleled customer service. Elevate your day out with a visit to the Outlets of Des Moines — where great deals and memorable moments await. 

Outlets of Des Moines

Discover the heart of Iowa's rich tradition and vibrant community at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, located at 3000 E Grand Ave, Des Moines. Renowned for hosting one of the largest and most iconic state fairs in the nation, these grounds offer year-round excitement and entertainment. With over 445 acres of versatile event space, it's the perfect venue for fairs, concerts, exhibitions, and community gatherings. From thrilling rides and award-winning livestock shows to delicious Midwestern delicacies and lively performances, the Iowa State Fairgrounds is where unforgettable memories are made. Conveniently situated in Des Moines, it’s an accessible and welcoming destination for visitors from all over. Come experience the essence of Iowa and create extraordinary experiences that last a lifetime. 

Iowa State Fairgrounds

Discover the enchanting world of authentic Italian cuisine at Latin King Italian Dining, nestled at 2200 Hubbell Ave, Des Moines, IA. Since 1947, we've been delighting guests with our rich tradition of culinary excellence and warm, inviting atmosphere. Savor mouth-watering classics like our signature Chicken Spiedini, fresh seafood, and hand-crafted pasta, all prepared with the finest ingredients and utmost care. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual night out, our attentive staff and cozy ambiance make every visit unforgettable. Join us at Latin King Italian Dining and experience a beloved Des Moines landmark where every meal is a story of passion, tradition, and unparalleled flavor. Buon Appetito! 

Latin King Italian Dining

Discover the grandeur of the Iowa State Capitol, a stunning architectural masterpiece located at 1007 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA. Completed in 1886, this historic landmark showcases a breathtaking 275-foot gold dome that stands as a beacon of Iowa's rich heritage. Step inside to marvel at exquisite marble floors, intricate woodwork, and beautiful stained-glass windows. The Capitol offers guided tours where visitors can explore the majestic chambers of the Iowa Senate and House of Representatives, the awe-inspiring law library, and various historical exhibits. The grounds feature meticulously landscaped gardens and impressive monuments, providing a serene and educational experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a unique cultural outing, the Iowa State Capitol promises an unforgettable journey through time and craftsmanship. Don’t miss this iconic symbol of Iowa’s pride and governance! 

Iowa State Capitol

Nestled in the heart of Ankeny, Cafe Diem offers a sanctuary for coffee enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Located at 2005 S Ankeny Blvd Suite 800, this local gem is known for its welcoming atmosphere and dedication to quality. Whether you're starting your day with a meticulously brewed cup of coffee or winding down with a rich, aromatic tea, Cafe Diem provides a perfect setting for both relaxation and productivity.

Cafe Diem’s menu is a delightful exploration of flavors, serving an array of freshly prepared sandwiches, soups, and pastries that cater to every palate. Their commitment to using fresh and locally sourced ingredients is evident in each dish, ensuring a wholesome and satisfying experience. The cafe's inviting setting is ideal for solo visitors, cozy gatherings, and casual business meetings, making it a versatile spot for any occasion.

With a focus on community engagement, Cafe Diem often hosts local events, fostering a sense of connection and camaraderie among Ankeny residents and visitors. The friendly staff is always ready to greet you with a smile, enhancing the warm, homey vibe that makes Cafe Diem a standout destination.

Whether you're a local or a traveler passing through, a visit to Cafe Diem is more than just a coffee break—it's a chance to savor the essence of Ankeny's vibrant community life. 

Cafe Diem

Explore Iowa's rich heritage at the State Historical Building, located at 600 E Locust St, Des Moines. Nestled in the vibrant East Village, this iconic landmark offers a captivating journey through time. Marvel at captivating exhibits showcasing Iowa's Native American roots, pioneer days, and pivotal role in American history. Enjoy interactive displays, panoramic murals, and rare artifacts that bring history to life. The building also hosts educational programs, special events, and workshops suitable for all ages. With its grand architecture and engaging experiences, the State Historical Building is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike. Discover Iowa's past and be inspired by the stories that shaped its present and future. Your adventure into history begins here! 

State Historical Building

Get ready for two action-packed days of junior college basketball at the **2026 ICCAC JUCO Jam**, taking place October 3–4, 2026, at the **515 Fieldhouse** in Grimes, Iowa!

The weekend tips off with the **women’s JUCO Jam on Saturday, October 3**, followed by the **men’s JUCO Jam on Sunday, October 4**. Don’t miss the opportunity to see some of the top junior college talent from across the region compete throughout the weekend!

📍 **515 Fieldhouse**
1220 NE Station Crossing Dr.
Grimes, IA 50111

2026 ICCAC JUCO Jam

The 2026 National Corncob Classic is a wrestling tournament taking place Sunday, October 11, 2026, at the EMC Expo Center in Des Moines, Iowa. Competition starts at 8:00 AM on Sunday. Wrestlers can register online through October 10, with no onsite registration available; registration fees vary by deadline.&#x20;

2026 National Corncob Classic

The Missouri Valley Conference crowns its 2026 Cross Country champions at the annual MVC Cross Country Championship on October 30, 2026. All eleven MVC member schools send their top distance runners to battle for individual and team titles. Hosted by Drake University on a championship course, the meet showcases elite endurance athletes from Belmont, Bradley, Drake, Evansville, UIC, Illinois State, Indiana State, Murray State, Northern Iowa, Southern Illinois and Valparaiso, with live recaps and highlights airing across MVC digital channels.

2026 The Missouri Valley Conference Cross Country Championship

The annual Grand View Open returns on Saturday, November 14, 2026, bringing one of the nation's largest collegiate wrestling tournaments to the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex in West Des Moines, Iowa. Nearly 50 teams from across multiple collegiate divisions and close to 800 wrestlers are expected to compete throughout the day, showcasing some of the top talent from around the region and beyond. Competition will begin at 9:00 a.m., with athletes battling across multiple mats in a full day of high-level wrestling action. The Grand View Open has become a premier early-season event on the collegiate wrestling calendar, attracting nationally ranked programs and providing fans with an exciting opportunity to watch elite competition in one venue.

Grand View Open

state facilities amenities:
baseball
softball
soccer

Sam Wise Youth Complex

Bleachers

Chairs

Cleaning Station

Concessions

Field Goal Posts

Hand Sanitizing Station

Lacrosse Nets

Lighting

Parking

Restrooms

Rugby Posts

Scoreboard

Soccer Goals

Speakers

Tables

Water Fountain

Wheelchair Accessible

Wifi

Everyone loves an underdog. In Greater Des Moines, it’s our competitive advantage. From our humble beginnings as a quiet insurance town, we’ve worked hard to create a home field advantage as an unexpected sports mecca in the heart of the Midwest.

The country’s largest skatepark. An iconic track and field venue. The longest running minor league affiliation in baseball. There’s a reason we were named #1 Minor League Sports Market in the nation and that NBA Hall of Famer Reggie Miller said, “Des Moines is the best site I’ve ever been a part of.” 

Whether we’re hosting marquee sporting events like the NCAA Tournament and Dew Tour, or a youth soccer tournament in the suburbs, our fans show up loud and proud. We’ve got the venues, the people, and the passion to ensure that your next sporting event will be a winner. Big or small, let’s play ball!


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