Ames

Travel Guide

Iowa State University which includes a park and heritage architecture as well as a small group of people
Iowa State University showing a park and modern architecture
Iowa State University showing a park
Iowa State University which includes heritage architecture and a lake or waterhole
Reiman Gardens showing a house and a park

Visit this welcoming city in Iowa for a dose of small-town charm combined with innovative attractions and pleasant natural spaces.

Just north of Des Moines, the city of Ames has convenient links to larger cities while still retaining a sense of peace and tranquility. Walk through one of the many community parks, visit the local university campus or wander through art galleries featuring fascinating sculptures and paintings.

The history of Ames goes back to days of Americans spreading west across the country with the use of railroads. At its founding in 1864, Ames was built as a station stop for the Cedar Rapids and Missouri Railroad. Look up the history of the name to learn more about Oakes Ames, a congressman who contributed greatly to plans for the transcontinental railroad.

To find out more about the history of Ames, view artifacts from the area’s past through the Ames Historical Society. Discover the culture of Ames in the present day in the Main Street Cultural District. This street serves as a gathering point for local residents and is filled with family-owned restaurants and stores.

In addition to its educational resources for over 30,000 students, Iowa State University also has its own cultural attractions. Wander through Reiman Gardens to see the water lilies in Lake Helen. Then, continue on to the 1860-built Farm House Museum, the oldest building on campus. The university campus also has plenty of green space for visitors to enjoy.

Discover the city’s other green spaces. Have a picnic in one of the local parks such as Squaw Creek or Greenbriar Park.

To travel to Ames, fly into Des Moines International Airport and rent a car. Drive north about 50 minutes to Ames. The city is well connected to surrounding areas if you want to drive from your home.

Whatever your reason for visiting Ames, you will be sure to find something here to interest you. Indulge your curiosity while visiting local museums and relax in the city’s natural settings and gardens.

Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University

Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University

3 out of 5
2100 Green Hills Drive, Ames, IA
The price is CA $135 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
CA $135
CA $151 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Ames. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University
AmericInn by Wyndham Ames

AmericInn by Wyndham Ames

2.5 out of 5
2507 SE 16th St., Ames, IA
The price is CA $115 per night from Sep 7 to Sep 8
CA $115
CA $129 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Ames. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
AmericInn by Wyndham Ames
Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus

Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus

2.5 out of 5
603 South 16th Street, Ames, IA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $127 per night from Sep 14 to Sep 15
CA $127
CA $143 total
Sep 14 - Sep 15
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this golf hotel in Ames. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Campus & Downtown - Near Starbucks - Netflix - 2Br/1Ba

Campus & Downtown - Near Starbucks - Netflix - 2Br/1Ba

Ames
Stay at this vacation home in Ames. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Main Street Cultural District and Octagon ...
Campus & Downtown - Near Starbucks - Netflix - 2Br/1Ba
Fun Family Place with Extras and Space

Fun Family Place with Extras and Space

Ames
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Ames. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and a garden. Popular attractions Farm House Museum and Stephens ...
Fun Family Place with Extras and Space
Douglas Ave Flat

Douglas Ave Flat

Ames
Stay at this vacation home in Ames. Enjoy free WiFi, a water park, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Octagon Center for the Arts and Main Street ...
Douglas Ave Flat
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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