Ankeny Family Halloween at Living History Farms
Step back in time for a festive Family Halloween at Living History Farms. This one-weekend-only event invites families to trick-or-treat through the charming 1876 town of Walnut Hill, get their fortunes told, and enjoy games and crafts in a historic barn. Experience the magic of a twilight horse-drawn wagon ride and witness demonstrations at various historical shops.
What to Expect
Trick-or-treat in a historic 1876 town setting.
Event Details
Duration
One weekend only
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Living History Farms
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and historical
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Accessibility: Paths are boardwalk or dirt/gravel. Step Saver tours available to skip woodland trails. Accessible entrances to buildings (except second floor of Flynn Mansion). Modern restrooms available at 1900 Farm house and Flynn Mansion. Contact info@LHF.org or 515-278-5286 for questions.
- Pets: Well-behaved dogs allowed on a non-retractable leash, but must remain outside buildings and away from livestock.
Tips & Advice
- Purchase tickets in advance, especially for the popular Family Halloween event, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
- Arrive early, particularly for the evening hours, to make the most of the trick-or-treating and activities before closing.
- Check the specific hours for each day, noting the earlier 'Toddler-Friendly Time' on Sunday, and be aware that the last tractor cart departs well before closing.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on boardwalks and dirt/gravel paths, as you'll be exploring the historic town and farm sites.
- Consider bringing a reusable bag for collecting treats during the trick-or-treating portion of the event.
Special Events & Promotions
- Toddler-Friendly Time on Sunday
- Advance ticket purchase recommended
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
You may buy General Admission tickets online in advance or at the door. Advance tickets are recommended for special events like Family Halloween.
Is this a guided tour?
Guests visit at their own pace. While there are no formal tour guides, historic interpreters are available at many sites.
Where do we start?
Begin at the Kemin Cultivation Center. You can choose to ride the tractor cart to the farm sites or explore the 1876 town of Walnut Hill first. The farm sites follow a one-way route.
Is the museum accessible?
Paths are boardwalk or dirt/gravel. Step Saver tours are available to skip woodland trails, and specific farm sites can be visited. All buildings have accessible entrances, though the second floor of the Flynn Mansion is not ADA compliant. Contact info@LHF.org or 515-278-5286 for details.
Can we bring our dog?
Living History Farms welcomes well-behaved dogs on a standard, non-retractable leash. They must remain outside buildings and away from livestock.
More Halloween Events Near Urbandale
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.