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Ames was founded in 1864 as a station stop on the Cedar Rapids and Missouri River Railroad. The community was named for Oakes Ames, a Massachusetts congressman who played a key role in transcontinental railroad development. In 1858, the Iowa Agricultural College and Model Farm was established here, which later became Iowa State University, one of the first land-grant institutions in the nation. Throughout the late 19th century, Ames grew steadily as an educational and agricultural research hub. The Campanile, a 50-bell carillon tower completed in 1899, remains the university’s most iconic landmark.
Explore the Reiman Gardens, a stunning 17-acre botanical garden featuring an indoor conservatory, seasonal butterfly exhibit, and one of the largest concrete garden gnomes in the world. Tour the Iowa State University campus, where you can visit the legendary Campanile, the historic Farm House Museum, and the impressive Parks Library. Browse the shops and restaurants along Main Street in the vibrant downtown district, where local boutiques and cafes create a welcoming atmosphere. Attend a Cyclones football game at Jack Trice Stadium or catch a basketball matchup at Hilton Coliseum for an authentic Big 12 sports experience.
Spring brings blooming tulips at Reiman Gardens and pleasant temperatures for walking the campus grounds. Summer offers farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and the Ames Main Street Summer Festival with activities for all ages. Fall is ideal for Cyclones football games and enjoying the changing foliage across central Iowa. Winter brings smaller crowds and holiday events like the WinterFest celebration in the downtown area.
Visit the Brunnier Art Museum, Iowa’s only accredited university museum focusing on decorative arts, housed within the Scheman Building at the Iowa State Center. Discover hands-on science at the Iowa 4-H Center, which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for families. Explore the Octagon Center for the Arts, a community art center in downtown Ames featuring rotating gallery exhibitions and workshops. Walk through the Anderson Sculpture Garden, an outdoor collection of contemporary sculptures spread across the Morrill Hall lawn at Iowa State University.
Enjoy Ada Hayden Heritage Park, a scenic 430-acre preserve with a large lake, fishing piers, and miles of paved and natural trails for hiking and biking. Explore the High Trestle Trail, a 25-mile rail-trail connecting Ames to nearby communities, known for its illuminated bridge offering spectacular views. Spend time at Brookside Park, the city’s oldest park with sports fields, playgrounds, and a picturesque rose garden. Paddle or fish along the Skunk River, which forms the western boundary of Ames and provides quiet stretches of water for canoeing and kayaking.
Here are some of our favorite things to do in Ames. Select what you would like to do!
The Brunnier Art Museum is Iowa’s only accredited university museum dedicated exclusively to decorative arts, housed within the Iowa State Center on the Iowa State University campus. Established in 1975 through a generous donation from Henry J. Brun…