Find hotels in Ames, IA from £49

Top reasons to visit Ames

• Educational Attractions: Explore the renowned Iowa State University, offering a vibrant college-town atmosphere and engaging cultural experiences.
• Charming City Centre: Stroll through Ames' delightful city centre, filled with unique shops and local eateries.
• Picturesque Parks: Enjoy outdoor adventures in the beautiful urban parks, perfect for family outings.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, catering to various preferences.
• Community Spirit: Experience the warm, welcoming vibe of Ames, making it an ideal destination for family holidays.

Find great hotels in and around Ames

Ames, Iowa offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to well-equipped hotels. Whether you seek a pet-friendly stay, a business-friendly environment, or a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQIA travellers, you’ll discover various hotels in Ames that cater to your preferences. Enjoy convenient access to Iowa State University and the vibrant local community while experiencing a comfortable stay in this lovely Midwestern town.

• Sonesta Essential Ames: Ideal for the modern traveller, Sonesta Essential Ames combines a pet-friendly atmosphere with a business-oriented focus. This welcoming hotel embraces diversity, proudly catering to LGBTQIA guests, making it a unique choice for those seeking inclusivity. The amenities include a 24-hour business centre, ensuring you can manage your work commitments seamlessly. Pets are permitted, with specific policies in place to accommodate furry companions, allowing you to travel without leaving your beloved pets behind.
• Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University: This family-friendly 3-star hotel offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for all types of guests. Located near Iowa State University, it is well-suited for both leisure and business travellers, thanks to its extensive conference facilities, including a dedicated conference centre and multiple meeting rooms. The hotel ensures young visitors are well cared for with complimentary cribs available. Pets are also welcome, with amenities like a dog exercise area, making it an excellent choice for families travelling with pets.
• Wyndham Garden Ankeny/Des Moines: Situated 12.4km from Ames, the Wyndham Garden Ankeny/Des Moines is a versatile 3-star hotel tailored for business travellers and pet owners alike. With multiple meeting rooms and accessible business centres, it caters to professional needs while offering a comfortable stay. Pets are allowed, making it easier for you to bring your dog along for the trip. The hotel’s inviting atmosphere ensures a pleasant and productive experience for all guests.

Where to stay near Ames

Ames, Iowa, is a delightful destination for family-oriented travellers, offering a rich blend of culture and community spirit. Explore its charming city centre, visit Iowa State University for a taste of vibrant college-town life, and enjoy picturesque parks perfect for excursions. The surrounding areas also provide a family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both short stays and longer visits in Central Iowa. Discover the welcoming vibe and diverse experiences Ames has to offer!

• Kelley: Situated a mere 3.7km from Ames, Kelley offers a delightful blend of city charm and family-friendly experiences. Although traveller arrivals remain consistent year-round, the peak season from June to August attracts many visitors. Kelley is ideal for those seeking a city themed , sports , or family-oriented getaway. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and venues, including shopping centres and educational facilities. Notably, the local landmarks feature a modern college university and a sports facility stadium, making it perfect for sports enthusiasts and families alike.
• Gilbert: Also located 3.7km from Ames, Gilbert is a quaint city that invites travellers to experience its outdoor and family-friendly offerings. With visitor numbers peaking from August to October, it provides a lovely atmosphere for exploring the local community. Gilbert boasts an array of educational institutions and shopping centres, ensuring a well-rounded experience. The proximity to a modern college university and sports facilities adds to the appeal, making it a great spot for families and outdoor lovers seeking both relaxation and recreation.
• Nevada: Just 5.0km from Ames, Nevada is a vibrant city that captures the essence of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Peak travel times occur in June and July, as well as September. Visitors flock to Nevada for its romantic atmosphere and cultural attractions. The city offers various recreational areas and entertainment facilities that cater to diverse interests. Close to a modern college university and sports stadiums, Nevada presents a unique blend of leisure and excitement, perfect for couples and culture enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in local charm.

Things to do in and around Ames

Ames is perfect for city and culture-themed family holidays, offering a variety of activities to enjoy. Visitors can explore educational attractions, shop at the local shopping mall, and discover unique finds in the shopping centre. With its vibrant atmosphere, Ames provides a delightful blend of leisure and learning for all ages.

Shopping

Ames offers charming shopping experiences, including Northview Shopping Center, located 11.8km away, featuring a mix of family-friendly shops and local businesses. If you're up for a drive, visit Outlets of Des Moines, 16.2km away, for a variety of discount retail options and vibrant atmosphere.

Recreation

Jack Trice Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere, perfect for sports enthusiasts to soak in the excitement of local games. Veenker Memorial Golf Course invites you to enjoy a leisurely round amidst picturesque landscapes, while Furman Aquatic Center provides a family-friendly environment for swimming and relaxation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Boone Speedway, a vibrant motor racing venue located 8.7km from Ames, where adrenaline meets excitement. For family fun, visit Seven Oaks Recreation, 11.2km away, offering various outdoor activities. Finally, unleash your competitive spirit at Pole Position Raceway, a karting venue situated 15.5km from Ames.

Nightlife

Experience the thrill at Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park for an adventurous night out. Enjoy a film at Cinemark Ames Movies 12, perfect for a romantic evening. For a nostalgic ride, visit the Story City Carousel, just 6.8km away, and enjoy the enchanting atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ames

Ames, Iowa, offers several ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free entry to attractions like Iowa State University and take advantage of budget-friendly transport options such as buses and bikes. The best time to visit is from November to January when accommodation prices are lower, especially on Mondays, compared to the pricier weekends. Use Expedia to find great deals by filtering for budget options and eco-friendly hotels. Consider booking a package that includes your flights and activities for added savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ames are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ames is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Ames is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Ames with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Ames

Ames, Iowa, offers a delightful blend of city-themed and cultural experiences, making it ideal for family vacations. Visitors can explore attractions such as urban parks, modern colleges and universities, and event conference venues. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, or a vibrant city experience, Ames has something to cater to every traveller's interests, ensuring an enjoyable stay.

• Iowa State University: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Iowa State University, a modern institution that showcases a blend of academic excellence and city life. Stroll through its picturesque campus and soak in the energy of students and faculty.
• Stephens Auditorium: Dive into the business vibes of Stephens Auditorium, a premier event venue in Ames. Attend a concert, lecture, or performance in this architectural gem designed for an engaging experience.
• Reiman Gardens: Enjoy a delightful family outing at Reiman Gardens, an urban park that offers stunning landscapes, themed gardens, and outdoor activities. It's the perfect spot to relax and connect with nature in a city setting.

Best time to go to Ames

The best time to visit Ames is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain (dry).

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	20.1°F (-6.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	22.5°F (-5.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
March	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
June	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	73.8°F (23.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
August	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	39.4°F (4.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	27.9°F (-2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Ames

Ames, Iowa, can be conveniently accessed via two major airports. Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is situated 21.1km from Ames, with nearby hotels including the 4.5-star Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale and Hotel Renovo Des Moines Urbandale, both 5.6km away. The 4-star Surety Hotel is also close, at 2.5km from DSM. Alternatively, Fort Dodge Regional Airport (FOD) is 29.2km away, offering hotel options like the Crossroads Hotel and Event Center, just 1.9km from FOD, and the 4-star Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, also within a short distance. Transportation services, including shuttles, are available from these hotels for easy airport access.