Lakeside Center

Lakeside Center is a city-run event venue in Hawkeye Park, Ankeny, available to hire throughout the year. Its 3,500-square-foot indoor space can accommodate gatherings of up to 250 people, making it suitable for private celebrations, receptions, parties, community functions and business meetings.

The venue offers a flexible setting that organisers can arrange for their event. Hire includes tables and seating, along with access to a kitchen equipped with a refrigerator, freezer, oven, stove and keg cooler. Renters provide their own smaller kitchen items, tableware and linens, and are responsible for setting up and clearing away within their booked time. Live music and DJs are permitted, with audio equipment supplied by the renter. Food trucks may be used if they have the required City of Ankeny permit.

Bookings are available between 9 a.m. and midnight, with a six-hour minimum hire. Reservations can be made up to one year ahead through the city's Parks and Recreation department. The facility's park location gives organisers an outdoor setting around the venue, while the indoor space can be used in every season. Parking is in the public park and is available on a first-come basis. Lakeside Center provides a practical, self-managed option for organisers seeking a spacious local venue and the flexibility to arrange their own food, decorations and event suppliers.