oldLocal Information

Beneath the small town charm of Ames, Iowa, beats the heart of a much larger city. With a population of over 63,000, Ames offers cultural, recreational, educational, business, and entertainment amenities more common in bigger metros. Home to Iowa State University, Ames not only educates students from around the globe, but is a community that truly offers a little bit of everything.

For more information on what to do and see while in Ames, please visit the Think Ames website!

 

 

 

 ADA HAYDEN HERITAGE PARK
427 acres of beautiful prairie, woodland and natural wetland environments with three miles of hard surface pathway, two miles of crushed-rock paths. The park also offers spots for fishing, a shelter, and access for canoeing and kayaking. Rentals available.ALLUVIAL BREWING COMPANY
Sample a selection of craft brews and taste a unique piece of Iowa. Their “free range” taproom invites conversation and solace nestled within their eighty- acre organic farm. Take a beer for a stroll amongst vegetables and wetlands or belly up to the bar and enjoy with a friend.

MAIN STREET DISTRICT
With more than 50 locally owned specialty retail shops and restaurants, the Main Street is the perfect destination to enjoy strolling along the beautiful sidewalks, discovering unique finds and grabbing a bite to eat at any of the local restaurants. Here on Saturday? Check out the Farmers’ Market -bringing local food and fun to the heart of Ames.

BOONE & SCENIC VALLEY RAILROAD & MUSEUM
Enjoy a 90-minute excursion across the beautiful Des Moines River Valley in a 1920s era coach or open-air car while enjoying first class service. Most train tickets come with free admission to the James H. Andrew Railroad Museum, where you will be enriched in the history of railroads and depots of Iowa

CAMPUSTOWN
Ames’ Campustown hosts a thriving nightlife, great restaurants and exciting shopping options. Events held throughout the year add to the fun atmosphere of the district.

COLDWATER GOLF COURSE
Unique in Iowa with its Scottish links-inspired design, Coldwater Golf Links is Ames’ premier facility your next round! Named by Golf Digest as a “4-Star Best Places to Play,” this 18-hole course incorporates skill and tradition with every hole.

PRAIRIE MOON WINERY AND VINEYARDS
Prairie Moon Winery is a family owned 12- acre winery that makes all wines on premise. Their elegant tasting room includes artwork by local artists and weekly live music.

REIMAN GARDENS
17 acres of beautiful gardens, Reiman Gardens creates a stunning gateway to Ames and ISU. Reiman is a collection of unique and colorful gardens, including indoor and outdoor gardens. Step inside the 2,500 square-foot Christina Reiman Butterfly House to enjoy tropical butterflies, reflecting pools and cascading waterfalls, and while inside enjoy their seasonal indoor displays and gift shop.