Ames, IA

Travel Guide

Iowa State University which includes heritage architecture and a park as well as a small group of people
Iowa State University featuring a park and modern architecture
Iowa State University showing a garden
Iowa State University featuring a lake or waterhole and heritage architecture
Reiman Gardens which includes a house and a garden
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
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NT$2,997 per night from Aug 31 to Sep 1
NT$2,997
NT$3,357 total
Aug 31 - Sep 1
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 NT$2,567 per night from Sep 7 to Sep 8
NT$2,567
NT$2,875 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
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Ames, IA

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Ames, IA

2.5 out of 5
2605 Se 16th St, Ames, IA
The price is NT$2,376 per night from Sep 8 to Sep 9
NT$2,376
NT$2,661 total
Sep 8 - Sep 9
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 ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,004 reviews)
"The host was most courteous helpful and obliging!"

Reviewed on 2025/8/24

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Ames, IA
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 Casey's Center ...
Kasa Downtown Des Moines
Moon River Cabins

Moon River Cabins

3 out of 5
905 South Riverview Dr, Bellevue, IA
Stay at this 3-star cabin in Bellevue. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Sarge O'Neil Park and Bellevue State Park ...
Moon River Cabins
2 Mi to Main St: Newton Guest House

2 Mi to Main St: Newton Guest House

3 out of 5
Newton
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly apartment in Newton. Enjoy free parking and air conditioning. Popular attractions Aurora Park and Agnes Patterson Memorial ...
2 Mi to Main St: Newton Guest House
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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