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Located right in the middle of Iowa, Ames in Story County is a delightful destination and makes for a great weekend escape from Des Moines. But even travelers visiting from different places and considering staying long-term will have plenty of things to see and do. This incredible community boasts more than three dozen parks, and over 50 miles of beautiful trails, and has won several awards for being a thriving part of Iowa.
Planning a visit to the heart of the Midwest? Here is the ultimate guide to Ames and things to do.
What To Know Before Visiting Ames, Iowa
Iowa is brimming with beautiful towns that every vacationer should visit to experience their unique charm. When visiting a town like Ames, it is important to know what to expect. This allows travelers to plan and prepare well for their trip.
- There is so much to do in Ames: While it’s boasting a small-town charm, Ames is actually a fascinating city, with so much to explore. From hundreds of acres of beautiful parks to incredible bike and hiking trails to a bustling cultural scene, the city is filled with fun events and festivals.
- There are over 1,400 accommodation options for travelers, located only a short distance away from all the happenings in the city. Whether they are looking for a spot within an entertainment district or near the Iowa State Campus, travelers have a wide range of selections.
- The city’s culinary scene is incredible: Many people may see Ames as more of an education center, outdoor zone, and a nature lover’s paradise. But it also has an amazing food scene, with restaurants specializing in varying cuisines.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Ames, Iowa?
Iowa is full of fun adventures, and there is always something to discover each season in Ames. The city is known for its numerous sporting events, but it has much more to offer. Between May and September, travelers will experience splendid weather, with temperatures averaging around 68 and 79 degrees Fahrenheit.
July boasts an average temperature of 86 degrees Celsius, making it the hottest month of the year. January's average temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the city’s coldest month.
- The best time to visit Ames, Iowa: May to September, thanks to the warm weather, making it the best time for going outdoors and enjoying what Ames has to offer.
- The hottest month in Ames, Iowa: July
- The coldest month in Ames, Iowa: January
How To Get Around Ames, Iowa
One of the best ways of getting around Ames is via the CyRide transportation, the city bus system, a collaboration between Ames, Iowa State University, and the university’s Student Government. The system offers services within the 13 designated routes.
- The cost of a CyRide bus: $1 per ride
- The cost of a ticket book: $10
Senior travelers and kids are eligible for discounts on CyRide.
Another great and cost-effective way of getting around this city is by bicycle, thanks to the incredible trail system, paved and well-maintained.
The city is also walkable, and apart from the university area, the city's downtown area, Campustown, and some parts of the Somerset neighborhood are walkable.
Here Is What To Do In Ames, Iowa
While some travelers might think Idaho is boring, there's actually so much to do, from exploring history and art to nature and more.
Explore The Beautiful Reiman Gardens
Stretching over a 17-acre of space, Reiman Gardens is a portion of Iowa State University and has been there for more than 100 years. There are numerous species of plants, shrubs, and plants, some from the state, others from different parts of the globe.
This garden is also home to the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing, containing over 80 butterfly species. Vacationers can explore the garden on guided tours, attend lectures, and enjoy some fun activities.
Spend Some Time At Brunnier Art Museum
Brunnier Art Museum is situated within Iowa State University, famous for being the only Iowa's accredited museum. This is a perfect spot for visitors into functional arts, including dolls and ceramics.
Travelers will not only enjoy exploring the incredible masterpieces in Brunnier Art Museum but also enjoy the museum's location near other museums in the state.
Explore A Variety Of Habitats At McFarland Park
Ames is home to numerous parks, and McFarland is definitely one of the most impressive. Covering 200 acres, this park is home to a variety of habitats, and offers fun adventure opportunities for vacationers.
There are about five and a half miles of hiking trails, beautiful picnic areas, and a camping site. Iowa is home to some of the most famous and clear lakes, offering plenty of fishing.
Relax At Landscaped Brookside Park
Looking for a perfect relaxing spot in Ames, the incredibly landscaped Brookside Park is popular, offering a perfect relaxing spot for travelers of all ages. It is a great getaway destination for tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.
There is a wading pool, playground, ball fields, picnic tables, grills, basketball courts, and more.
Where To Stay In Ames
First-timers in Ames would definitely opt for more touristy areas. Solo vacationers should stay in local neighborhoods. Areas with lots of things to see and do offer a bit expensive accommodation.
The campus area and the Main Street Cultural District are some of the best places to stay in Ames, Iowa.
Best Western Plus University Park Inn Suites
Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites offers vacationers a chance of experiencing all that's going on in Ames, Iowa. It is located near Iowa State University, the gorgeous Reiman Gardens, and the Main Street Cultural District.
- Address: 2500 University Boulevard, Ames, IA 50010-8621
- Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee maker, coffee machine, free parking, business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, and a flat-screen TV.
GrandStay Hotel and Suites Ames
Staying at GrandStay Hotel and Suites Ames puts travelers right in the heart of Ames, only a few minutes away from Iowa State University. The hotel offers amenities like an express check-out and free self-parking.
- Address: 1606 South Kellogg Avenue, Ames, IA 50010
- Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, restaurant, free Wi-Fi, coffee machine, free parking, business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, and a flat-screen TV.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames offers modern amenities guaranteeing a comfortable and relaxing stay in Ames at reasonable prices. The hotel offers vacationers an opportunity to stay near most attractions in this charming town.
- Address: 1810 SE 16th Street, Ames, IA 50010
- Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, coffee machine, Wi-Fi available in all areas, flat-screen TV, free toiletries, internet, and parking.
Where To Find The Best Food In Ames, Iowa
Ames is not just a destination for exploring top universities, museums, and parks. It boasts an incredible culinary scene, and vacationers can never be disappointed by the numerous restaurants, including fine dining spots, cafes, grills, and eateries offering worldwide cuisine. Here are the top picks for restaurants in Ames, Iowa.
- The Café: Looking for a perfect breakfast eatery in Ames? Look no further than the Café. The restaurant offers some of the tastiest eats in the city. They serve dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and markets.
- The Hickory Park Restaurant: Founded in 1970, this restaurant is family owned and run – and is home to some of the most delicious homemade barbecues. It is one of the best among the locals and guarantees an unforgettable culinary experience.
- Aunt Maude’s: This eatery is nestled in Main Street, and is one of the top dining spots in the downtown area of Ames. It is also the coolest restaurant in Ames and offers items like sandwiches, pasta, salads, and sandwiches.
Tips For Exploring Ames, Iowa
- Plan trips at least 10 days before traveling. This is important, especially when planning to explore Iowa State University. The university is vast and is home to some of the city's best attractions. Scheduling a trip earlier allows visitors to access the necessary materials and tips to prepare well for their time in the city.
- Always check the weather forecast before visiting Ames. Vacationers are definitely going to engage in a lot of walking in the campus area and downtown Ames. One should know what the weather may look like to decide what to pack, which shoes to wear, and what dress to wear.
- Review the itinerary. It is advisable to check the itinerary before traveling to Ames. This allows tourists to be familiar with the directions of their various destinations and schedule before going on the trip.
Spending A Perfect Day In Ames, Iowa
America has plenty of beautiful college towns, and Ames is definitely among the best. A perfect day trip from nearby cities like Des Moines, as it takes under an hour to get to the community.
Start a perfect day in Iowa by taking a heavy breakfast in a local restaurant. After doing that, head to Reiman Gardens. This destination cannot miss on families' bucket lists, even on a day trip to Ames. Stroll through the gorgeous gardens, seeing different species of plants, flowers, and shrubs. One can spend hours exploring numerous events, activities, and stories.
Go to Iowa State University, ranked among the top 25 most beautiful campuses. It is a popular destination among families, especially in summer. The campus is brimming with gorgeous buildings, walkways, and trees. The campus is also home to Brunnier Art Museum. Spend time on this campus before looking for a spot to have dinner.
Ames' restaurants creatively prepare delicious dishes with ingredients sourced from local farms. There are bakeries filled with tasty favorites, such as pies and cakes.
FAQ
Q: What is Ames Iowa famous for?
Located right in the heart of the Midwest and Iowa, Ames is known for its thriving economy, and has won several awards for it. It is recognized for having a bustling cultural scene, being one of the centers for higher education, having incredible outdoor adventures, and a fantastic dining scene.
Q: What does Ames Iowa have to offer?
Famous for being home to Iowa State University, Ames is brimming with a lot of things to see and do, much like the rest of Iowa. From incredible outdoor adventures to shopping to a one-of-a-kind culinary scene, the city is exciting in many ways. It is home to some of the best museums in the state, dozens of beautiful parks, and plenty of recreational opportunities. There is never a shortage of things to explore in this charming college town.
Q: What is the coldest month in Ames Iowa?
The cold season (winter) lasts for about three months, starting from the end of November to early March. January is the coldest month of the year, with an average temperature of below 32 degrees.