Ames

Travel Guide

Iowa State University which includes a park and heritage architecture as well as a small group of people
Iowa State University featuring a park and modern architecture
Iowa State University showing a park
Iowa State University featuring heritage architecture and a lake or waterhole
Reiman Gardens which includes a garden 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 P3,919 per night from Jul 3 to Jul 4
P3,919
P4,390 total
Jul 3 - Jul 4
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! (992 reviews)
"Overall good"

Reviewed on Jun 30, 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 P5,039 per night from Jul 2 to Jul 3
P5,039
P5,644 total
Jul 2 - Jul 3
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! (1,003 reviews)
One day stay
"We had a great stay. We just stayed one night on a trip and it was a nice hotel. Rooms were clean and updated. Staff was super friendly. Pool and hot tub was nice."

Reviewed on Jun 28, 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 P4,501 per night from Jul 9 to Jul 10
P4,501
P5,041 total
Jul 9 - Jul 10
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! (1,005 reviews)
"Very nice place, clean."

Reviewed on Jun 30, 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! (89 reviews)
"All the convinces of home, while being central to all activities."

Reviewed on Jun 15, 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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