Looking for college-town spirit, prairie beauty, and Midwestern charm? Head to Ames, Iowa! Home to Iowa State University, Ames offers vibrant arts, scenic trails, and Big 12 sports. Whether you're catching a game, exploring gardens, or enjoying local eats, Ames is welcoming year-round.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ames is in spring and fall (April–June and September–October). These seasons offer mild weather, blooming landscapes, and campus events. Summer brings fewer crowds, while winter is quieter and often snowy.
How to Get There
- By Car: Ames is just off I-35, about 40 minutes north of Des Moines and 3.5 hours from Minneapolis.
- By Air: Fly into Des Moines International Airport (DSM) and drive or shuttle about 40 miles to Ames.
- By Bus: Jefferson Lines and regional bus services connect Ames with other Iowa cities and beyond.
Where to Stay
- Gateway Hotel & Conference Center – Comfortable lodging with an indoor pool, restaurant, and university proximity.
- Iowa House – Boutique inn located in a renovated fraternity house with cozy rooms and breakfast included.
- Sleep Inn & Suites – Clean, modern hotel near campus and easy highway access.
Top Attractions
1. Stroll Through Lush Landscapes and Butterflies at Reiman Gardens
Rating: ★★★★★
Address: Intersection of University Blvd. and S. 16th St., Ames, IA 50011
Phone: 515-294-2710
Recommended For: Garden lovers, families, photographers, and butterfly enthusiasts
What I Love: ♥ “Eighty species of butterflies in a tropical greenhouse—it’s like stepping into a dream.”
- Wander 17 acres of lush gardens filled with native Iowa and global plants.
- Visit the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing to see 80 butterfly species fluttering freely.
- Explore seasonal exhibits and beautifully landscaped garden rooms year-round.
- Join guided tours designed for both adults and children—perfect for families and school groups.
- Add-on lectures and activities for a deeper dive into botany, butterflies, or garden design.
Cost: Adults: $11, Seniors: $9, Youth (2–12): $6, under 2: free
Best time to go: Spring and summer for peak bloom, but the butterfly wing is lovely year-round
Local tips: Check their calendar for special exhibits, light shows, and themed seasonal events.
2. Explore Global and Decorative Arts at the Brunnier Art Museum
Address: 295 Scheman Building, 1805 Center Drive, Ames, IA 50011
Recommended For: Art lovers, design enthusiasts, history buffs, and Iowa State visitors
What I Love: ♥ “An unexpectedly rich mix of sculpture, textiles, and silver—all with free admission.”
- Visit Iowa State’s decorative arts museum founded by Henry J. and Ann Brunnier in 1975.
- See ever-changing exhibits featuring paintings, furniture, textiles, prints, and sculptures.
- Discover one of four art museums on campus, part of ISU’s massive public art collection—the largest of any U.S. university.
- Take in special exhibits showcasing local and international artists throughout the year.
- Enjoy free admission with an option to donate and support future exhibits and programs.
Cost: Free admission; donations encouraged
Best time to go: Weekdays for a quieter visit or during special exhibits for more variety
Local tips: Combine your visit with a walk around the campus to see ISU’s impressive public art installations.
3. Hike, Birdwatch, or Paddle in Nature at McFarland Park
Address: 56461 180th St, Ames, IA 50010
Recommended For: Nature lovers, hikers, families, amateur astronomers, and fishing enthusiasts
What I Love: ♥ “A peaceful blend of prairie, woods, lake, and stars—just minutes from Ames.”
- Explore 200 acres of Iowa nature just north of Ames at McFarland Park.
- Hike or bike 5.5 miles of scenic trails winding through woodlands and native prairie.
- Fish or paddle in a 6.5-acre lake stocked for recreational fishing.
- Walk the “Touch-A-Life” trail and enjoy lakeside views from the educational boardwalk deck.
- Bring binoculars—you’ll spot wildlife in every season, plus enjoy stargazing from the on-site observatory.
Cost: Free
Best time to go: Spring and fall for wildflowers and cooler hiking temps; evenings for stargazing events
Local tips: Stop by the nature center at the entrance for trail maps, educational displays, and wildlife info.
4. Step Into Local History at the Boone County Historical Society
Address: 602 Story Street, Boone, IA 50036
Recommended For: History buffs, families, train enthusiasts, fans of First Lady Mamie Eisenhower
What I Love: ♥ “Four museums in one—where history comes alive through railroads, school desks, and presidential roots.”
- Step into the past at Boone County Historical Society—home to four unique museums in one location.
- Explore natural and military history at the Historical Center, and learn how railroads shaped Boone County.
- Tour the childhood home of First Lady Mamie Eisenhower and a historic railway depot honoring local hero Kate Shelley.
- Visit Hickory Grove School, a restored one-room schoolhouse filled with vintage books, desks, and tools.
- Check hours for each site before visiting—some locations may have seasonal hours or limited access.
Cost: Admission prices vary by museum
Best time to go: Spring through fall for best access to all sites
Local tips: Call ahead to schedule guided tours or school visits—this is a great stop for educational field trips!
5. Catch a Broadway Show or Concert at Stephens Auditorium
Address: Corner of Lincoln Way and University Blvd., Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011
Recommended For: Performing arts lovers, students, theatergoers, and visitors looking for live entertainment
What I Love: ♥ “A cultural gem on campus where Broadway hits and global performances shine under one roof.”
- Experience the arts at Stephens Auditorium, a stunning venue built in 1969 to enrich campus life.
- Enjoy a wide range of performances, including dance, musicals, plays, and concerts.
- Catch a student production from the ISU theatre and music departments or see international touring acts.
- Browse the events calendar online to plan your visit—there’s something for every art lover.
- Purchase tickets online or at the box office for ease and convenience.
Cost: Varies by performance
Best time to go: Fall and spring semesters for the most frequent performances
Local tips: Arrive early for campus parking, and consider dining nearby before the show for a full evening out.
Attractions for Couples
6. Connect With Community Art at the Octagon Center for the Arts
Address: 427 Douglas Ave, Ames, IA 50010
Recommended For: Art lovers, local culture seekers, families, and creative souls of all ages
What I Love: ♥ “A downtown gem where community creativity shines through rotating exhibits and hands-on classes.”
- Explore ever-changing exhibits that showcase local and regional artists throughout the year.
- Shop the gallery store for one-of-a-kind handcrafted art, clothing, pottery, and gifts.
- Join a workshop or art class for kids, adults, or families—there’s something for all skill levels.
- Attend community art events that bring creativity and connection to the heart of Ames.
Cost: Free to enter, with fees for classes and select events
Best time to go: Year-round—especially during special events or exhibit openings
Local tips: Check the website for event calendars and class sign-ups. The gallery shop is a great spot for unique Ames-made gifts.
7. Dive Into Fashion History at the Textile and Clothing Museum
Address: 603 Morrill Rd, Ames, IA 50011
Recommended For: Fashion enthusiasts, history buffs, students, and anyone curious about global textile traditions
What I Love: ♥ “Where ancient Roman tunics and 20th-century gowns come together to tell a global fashion story.”
- Browse more than 9,500 pieces spanning cultures, continents, and centuries.
- See rare garments from the Roman period to modern couture.
- Explore how fashion reflects culture with rotating displays of Midwestern and international dress.
- Connect with ISU’s teaching legacy in fashion, history, and design.
Cost: Free
Best time to go: During the academic year when exhibits and class-related installations are most active
Local tips: Call ahead or check their Facebook page for exhibit hours and special events. Exhibits are small but incredibly detailed.
More Info: Textile and Clothing Museum
8. If You’re Craving Craft Beer and a Chill Vibe, Visit Torrent Brewing Company
Address: 504 Burnett Ave, Ames, IA 50010
Recommended For: Craft beer lovers, casual hangouts, and anyone looking for a relaxed local vibe
What I Love: ♥ “A cool industrial taproom where bold brews, games, and good vibes flow freely.”
- Sample creative beers from a local favorite started by a passionate Ames homebrewer.
- Grab a $2 taster or a full flight to discover new go-to brews.
- Snack on popcorn and candy—or bring your own feast!
- Challenge your friends to a game of foosball or pool while you sip.
- Catch live music and events in a laid-back, spacious warehouse setting.
Cost: Tasting-size brews start at $2; full pours and flights available
Best time to go: Friday and Saturday evenings for the liveliest crowd and occasional events
Local tips: Follow their website or social media for updates on rotating taps and event nights.
Plan Your Trip