• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Reiman Gardens ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
Reiman Gardens
© Jinying/stock.adobe.com

2. Brunnier Art Museum ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Museums & Culture
Brunnier Art Museum
© Brunnier Art Museum

3. McFarland Park

Category: Activities
McFarland Park
© Courtesy of watcherfox - Fotolia.com

4. Boone County Historical Society

Category: Attractions
Boone County Historical Society
© Boone County Historical Society

5. Stephens Auditorium

Stephens Auditorium
© Stephens Auditorium

6. Octagon Center for the Arts

Category: Attractions
Octagon Center for the Arts
© Octagon Center for the Arts

7. Textile and Clothing Museum

Category: Museums & Culture
Textile and Clothing Museum
© Textile and Clothing Museum

8. Torrent Brewing Company

Category: Food & Drink
Torrent Brewing Company
© Torrent Brewing Company

9. Brookside Park

Category: Activities
Brookside Park
© Courtesy of geargodz - Fotolia.com

Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

  • Where is Ames located?
    • Located in Story County, Iowa, Ames is a great weekend getaway from Des Moines, just 30 miles away.
  • What is a must-visit attraction in Ames?
    • You will not want to miss Reiman Gardens, especially in the spring and during the fall foliage season.
  • What can you find at the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing?
    • The Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing at Reiman Gardens is home to 800 live butterflies.
  • What is Iowa State University known for?
    • Iowa State University is renowned for its engineering, agriculture, design, and veterinary medicine colleges.
  • What are other great attractions in Ames?
    • Other great attractions in Ames include the Brunnier Art Museum, the Octagon Center for the Arts, and the Textile and Clothing Museum.

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