Things To Do
in Ames
Ames is a vibrant city located in the heart of Iowa, known for its friendly community and small-town charm. Home to Iowa State University, the city has a youthful energy and numerous cultural and recreational opportunities. Residents enjoy outdoor activities in the many parks and green spaces, as well as a thriving local food scene.
With a strong focus on education and innovation, Ames is a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Iowa State University campus and enjoy a peaceful walk. Visit the Reiman Gardens for beautiful flowers and serene landscapes.
Have lunch at a local café and then explore the Octagon Center for the Arts. Check out regional art exhibits and maybe join a workshop.
Dine at a local restaurant featuring Midwest cuisine. After dinner, take a stroll through downtown Ames and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.
Head to the Ada Hayden Heritage Park for a morning hike by the lake. Observe local wildlife and enjoy the scenic beauty around you.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the park. Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake if the weather allows.
Finish your day at a local brewery with a sunset view. Sample some local beers and unwind with friends or family.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Home to Iowa State University, providing educational opportunities and a vibrant community.
- Strong emphasis on research and innovation, especially in fields like agriculture and engineering.
- A family-friendly environment with numerous parks and recreational activities.
- Low cost of living compared to national averages, making it affordable for residents.
- A diverse and welcoming culture with various events and festivals throughout the year.
- Limited job opportunities outside of the education and agriculture sectors.
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall may be challenging for some residents.
- Relatively small size may lead to fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation options are limited, making a car necessary for most residents.
- Some may find the pace of life to be slower compared to urban areas.
Best Activities in Ames
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful gardens, including a butterfly house, at Reiman Gardens.
Enjoy a bike ride on the extensive trails and routes available through the city with the CyRide network.
Experience the natural beauty and trails for hiking at nearby Ledges State Park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ames with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ames
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views of the lake, wildlife, and beautiful walking trails, providing ample photo opportunities.
Features immaculately maintained gardens, butterfly house, and outdoor sculptures, perfect for stunning photography.
Iconic structure providing panoramic views of Iowa State's campus and the city of Ames, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Located a short drive from Ames, this park offers breathtaking views of the Des Moines River valley and unique rock formations, great for photography and nature lovers.
Food in Ames
Ames Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Iowa dish, the pork tenderloin sandwich is a must-try. It consists of a breaded and fried pork tenderloin served on a bun with classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles. One of the best places to savor this dish is at Hickory Park, a popular local restaurant.
Must-Try!
Another Iowa favorite is the classic corn dog, enjoyed at fairs and food festivals. The Corn Dog Connection food truck is renowned for serving delicious corn dogs with various dipping sauces, adding a unique twist to this classic snack.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ames better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Saturday morning, the Main Street Farmers' Market comes alive with a vibrant array of locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and street food. Visitors can indulge in diverse offerings such as fresh fruit smoothies, gourmet tacos, and homemade pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ames, it is common to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact during conversations as a sign of respect.
When dining in restaurants or using other services, it is customary to leave a 15-20% tip for good service, as tipping is a common practice in the United States.
In public spaces, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, as Americans generally value their personal space.
Safety
Tipping in Ames
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ames, United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as taxi rides and hairdresser services.
In Ames, United States, cash, credit cards, and mobile payment apps are widely accepted for making payments. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Ames, as the weather starts warming up and the flowers begin to bloom. The Iowa State University campus is especially beautiful during this time, and you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and biking in the nearby parks.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Ames, with warm temperatures and plenty of events and festivals taking place. Visitors can enjoy outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and various recreational activities in the city's parks and lakes.
Fall in Ames is characterized by colorful foliage, making it a popular time to visit for nature lovers. The city hosts fall festivals and events, and visitors can also take advantage of the pleasant weather for outdoor activities like apple picking and hiking.
Winter in Ames brings cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. While outdoor activities are limited, visitors can still enjoy indoor attractions such as museums, theaters, and cozy cafes. The holiday season also brings festive events and decorations to the city.
Ames at Night
Hiking in Ames
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A lovely park featuring trails, a lake, and picnic areas, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
Known for its stunning scenic views, this state park has trails that wind through picturesque landscapes and valleys.
This area offers various hiking trails along the river with opportunities for bird watching and enjoying the outdoors.
A local park with a network of trails for walking and hiking, featuring woods, open fields, and a creek.
This state park provides hiking trails with various terrain located around a large lake, perfect for a day of exploration.
Aiports
How to reach Ames by plane.
Located approximately 30 miles southwest of Ames, DSM is the largest airport in Iowa and offers various domestic and international flights.
Situated about 150 miles south of Ames, MCI serves as a major hub in the region with numerous national and international connections.
Located roughly 160 miles northwest of Ames, OMA provides a range of flights to various destinations across the country and internationally.
About 200 miles east of Ames, ORD is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering extensive domestic and global flight options.
Located approximately 250 miles north of Ames, MSP serves as a major hub and provides a wide array of domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Ames, comprising a significant majority of the population.
The second-largest group, representing a growing segment of the community.
A significant group, including a mix of diverse Asian backgrounds.
A minority group contributing to the cultural diversity of Ames.
Individuals identifying with more than one racial category, representing an increasingly diverse population.
A small population that contributes to the historical and cultural heritage of the region.
A very small demographic group within the Ames community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Ames, particularly at Iowa State University, where the college team has a strong following.
Widely played and followed, especially at the collegiate level with the Iowa State Cyclones competing in NCAA basketball.
A favorite pastime during the summer months, with local leagues and youth teams actively participating.
Gaining popularity among youth and adult leagues, with various clubs and recreational teams in the area.
A common activity with numerous running clubs and events, including marathons and fun runs held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ames.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ames boasts numerous eateries that cater to vegetarians and vegans. From plant-based bowls to innovative meatless burgers, visitors can explore an array of flavorful and fulfilling options at restaurants such as The Cafe, Arcadia Cafe, and Provisions Lot F.
For those seeking gluten-free dining options, several restaurants in Ames offer dedicated menus or accommodating dishes. Olde Main Brewing Co. and Dublin Bay are popular choices, providing a range of gluten-free selections while ensuring a delightful dining experience.