American Legion Park

American Legion Park is a well-established recreational area located in West Des Moines, Iowa. Spanning approximately 26 acres, this park serves as both a tribute to veterans and a popular community gathering space. Situated at the corner of 4th Street and Vine Street in the Historic Valley Junction area, it is one of the oldest and most picturesque parks in West Des Moines.

The park features a diverse range of facilities catering to various age groups and interests. A notable attraction is the playground, which includes separate play structures for children aged 2-5 and 5-12 years old. The playground surface is covered with wood chips for safety. Adjacent to the play area is a splash pad, which operates daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm between Memorial Day and Labor Day, providing a refreshing spot for children during warm weather.

For sports enthusiasts, American Legion Park offers multiple options. There's a full-court basketball area, a skate park for skateboarding enthusiasts, and a lighted tennis court that also includes pickleball lines. The park also features softball and baseball fields, as well as an open playfield suitable for activities like soccer.

The park provides ample seating and picnic areas. A shelter with picnic tables is available, surrounded by numerous shady spots where parents can relax while supervising their children. For added convenience, the park includes restroom facilities that are typically open from mid-April to mid-October.

Accessibility and parking have been considered in the park's design, with a dedicated parking lot available for visitors. The park also connects to the Jordan Creek Trail, making it a convenient stop for cyclists and pedestrians using the trail system.