Ames

Travel Guide

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

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.

AmericInn by Wyndham Ames
AmericInn by Wyndham Ames
2.5 out of 5
2507 SE 16th St., Ames, IA
The price is S$99 per night from 3 Jul to 4 Jul
S$99
3 Jul - 4 Jul
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. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (995 reviews)
"Staff was friendly, rooms were nice and clean. Pool did not have towels, the only problem I noticed."

Reviewed on 30 Jun, 2025

AmericInn by Wyndham Ames
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 S$109 per night from 4 Jul to 5 Jul
S$109
4 Jul - 5 Jul
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 ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,009 reviews)
"Super quiet room!"

Reviewed on 30 Jun, 2025

Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University
Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus
Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus
2.5 out of 5
1310 Dickinson Avenue, Ames, IA
The price is S$108 per night from 7 Jul to 8 Jul
S$108
7 Jul - 8 Jul
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 helpful staff ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,004 reviews)
"Clean and friendly staffs"

Reviewed on 24 Jun, 2025

Sleep Inn & 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.
Kasa Downtown Des Moines
Kasa Downtown Des Moines
4 out of 5
550 Watson Powell Junior Way, Des Moines, IA
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly aparthotel in Des Moines. Enjoy free WiFi, a business center, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Wells Fargo Arena ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (90 reviews)
Birthday Weekend
"We really enjoyed our stay! Check in and out was so easy. Great location. Everything was neat and tidy and set up well. Would definitely recommend!"

Reviewed on 29 Jun, 2025

Kasa Downtown Des Moines
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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