Cheap Hotels in Ames, IA from $59

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Top Ames Cheap Hotels

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames

2.0 star property
Ames
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1009)
"Staff was very helpful and friendly, rooms were clean, and breakfast was kept warm and stocked. "
United States
Tiara
$60 nightly
The price is $67
Dec 11 - Dec 12
Total with taxes and fees
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames

Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University

3.0 star property
Ames
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1188)
"Great hotel! "
United States
Eileen
$77 nightly
The price is $87
Dec 15 - Dec 16
Total with taxes and fees
Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University

AmericInn by Wyndham Ames

2.5 star property
Ames
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1003)
"Room was spotless; staff was courteous; breakfast was good...all around nice stay!"
United States
Jan
$79 nightly
The price is $88
Dec 3 - Dec 4
Total with taxes and fees
AmericInn by Wyndham Ames

Sonesta Essential Ames

2.0 star property
Ames
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1000)
"Love the free breakfest and variety or chooses and the ac worked good as well as the shower, enjoyed my stay and had excellent service"
United States
Soechun
$59 nightly
The price is $66
Dec 31 - Jan 1, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Sonesta Essential Ames

Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus

2.5 star property
Ames
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (979)
"Great stay "
United States
Celia
$80 nightly
The price is $89
Dec 26 - Dec 27
Total with taxes and fees
Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus

Econo Lodge Ames

2.0 star property
Ames
7.4 out of 10, Good, (784)
"Good place to stay"
United States
Victor
Econo Lodge Ames

GrandStay Hotel & Suites

2.5 star property
Ames
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1000)
"Good clean quick stop"
United States
Michael
$84 nightly
The price is $94
Dec 3 - Dec 4
Total with taxes and fees
GrandStay Hotel & Suites

Red Roof Inn Ames

2.0 star property
Ames
6.2 out of 10, (851)
"Very nice stay! Room is very modern and an overall nice stay"
United States
Michael
$53 nightly
The price is $59
Dec 3 - Dec 4
Total with taxes and fees
Red Roof Inn Ames

Hampton Inn & Suites Ames

2.5 star property
Ames
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (557)
"Very nice clean hotel. "
United States
Shawn
$82 nightly
The price is $92
Dec 21 - Dec 22
Total with taxes and fees
Hampton Inn & Suites Ames

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames

2.5 star property
Ames
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (532)
"Very large room and clean!!"
United States
keith
$93 nightly
The price is $104
Dec 14 - Dec 15
Total with taxes and fees
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Find out more about Ames

Discover cheap things to do in Ames

Ames, Iowa, is a hidden gem for budget-conscious travelers seeking adventure without breaking the bank. Start your exploration at the beautiful Reiman Gardens, where a small admission fee allows you to wander through stunning floral displays and serene landscapes—perfect for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll. Next, head to the Iowa State University campus, renowned for its historic architecture and vibrant student life; a walk through the campus is both free and filled with picturesque sights. For those who appreciate local culture, the Octagon Center for the Arts offers free exhibits showcasing regional artists, making it a great spot to immerse yourself in the local art scene. If you’re a nature enthusiast, the scenic trails at Ada Hayden Heritage Park provide an opportunity for biking or hiking without any cost, while enjoying the tranquil views of the lake. In terms of accommodations, look for budget-friendly hotels near downtown Ames; this area not only provides easy access to these attractions but also features a variety of affordable dining options like the popular Great Plains Sauce & Dough Co., known for its delicious pizza and family-friendly atmosphere. By staying in this vibrant district, you’ll find yourself at the heart of the action, with the added bonus of discovering local shops and cafes that are sure to enhance your Ames experience.

Find the best cheap hotels in Ames

Travelers looking for budget-friendly accommodations in Ames, Iowa, will find several excellent options that offer comfort and value without breaking the bank. Here are some top choices that ensure a pleasant stay with essential amenities and great reviews.

Iowa House

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Iowa House stands out as a fantastic budget option for travelers, an impressive guest review rating of 9.6. Guests appreciate the complimentary breakfast options available every weekend, along with free Wi-Fi and self-parking, making it easy to enjoy a straightforward stay with great value.
  • Other amenities: In addition to the budget-friendly offerings, the hotel features daily housekeeping services and premium bedding for added comfort. Guests can also enjoy a snack bar and a game room for entertainment during their downtime. The hotel provides access to a nearby fitness facility, ensuring active travelers can maintain their routines while away from home.
  • Nearby attractions: Stephens Auditorium - 1.07 miles, Brunnier Art Museum - 1.17 miles, Iowa State Center - 1.17 miles

Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Gateway Hotel and Conference Center is an ideal budget accommodation, rated 9.2 by guests for its affordability and comfort. With free self-parking and Wi-Fi, it caters well to budget-conscious travelers looking for convenience and accessibility.
  • Other amenities: Guests can enjoy an indoor pool and hot tub, perfect for relaxation after a long day. The hotel also offers accessible features and cribs at no extra cost. For those needing extra space, there are suites available, along with a fitness center to stay active. A nearby golf location adds to the appeal for sports enthusiasts.
  • Nearby attractions: Christofferson Park - 0.54 miles, Reiman Gardens - 1.07 miles, Jack Trice Stadium - 1.15 miles

Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Comfort Inn & Suites is a budget-friendly choice with an excellent guest rating of 9.0. With free Wi-Fi and daily breakfast, guests can enjoy essential services without extra costs, making it a smart pick for those on a budget.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features an indoor pool, perfect for leisure activities, and offers access to nearby golf courses for sports lovers. Guests can take advantage of free self-parking and a snack bar for quick bites. Additional amenities include air conditioning, fitness facilities, and premium bedding to ensure a restful stay.
  • Nearby attractions: Cinemark Ames Movies 12 - 0.49 miles, Reiman Gardens - 1.17 miles, Jack Trice Stadium - 1.24 miles

Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Sleep Inn & Suites offers budget-conscious travelers a comfortable stay with a solid review rating of 8.8. Guests benefit from free breakfast options daily and weekends, alongside complimentary Wi-Fi, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to save on meals.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features an indoor pool, perfect for swimming year-round, and provides free toiletries for guests' convenience. With a microwave and refrigerator available in rooms, travelers can easily prepare snacks and light meals. Self-parking is complimentary, and daily housekeeping ensures a clean and tidy environment throughout guests' stays.
  • Nearby attractions: Reiman Gardens - 2.52 miles, Jack Trice Stadium - 2.65 miles, Stephens Auditorium - 2.77 miles

Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites is an excellent budget choice with a respectable review rating of 8.6. With complimentary Wi-Fi and breakfast options available daily, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay while sticking to their budget.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features an indoor pool and a hot tub for relaxation, along with renovated facilities that enhance the guest experience. With housekeeping services and air conditioning, the hotel offers added convenience. Guests can also enjoy nearby golf activities and easy access to self-parking, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit.
  • Nearby attractions: Christofferson Park - 0.46 miles, Reiman Gardens - 0.98 miles, Jack Trice Stadium - 1.07 miles

How can I get cheap hotels in Ames?

Best tips to find a cheap hotel in Ames

  1. If you're looking to travel to Ames on a budget, you'll be happy to know that you can find hotels for as low as $59. Of course, that price is affected by amenities, star rating, and even the time of year you visit. At most, hotel prices can be as high as $104. Staying a short amount of time in Ames is an effective way to reduce hotel costs.

  2. When you cut your vacation down to just a few days, you don't have to worry as much about hotel prices since you don't have that many nights to stay. For budget hotels in Ames, 3 to 4 days should be all the nights you need. That's generally enough to enjoy the city's top attractions, though there's certainly enough to do to warrant a week-long trip.

  3. When booking cheap hotel rooms in Ames, it's typically best to book about 3 weeks in advance. Book further in advance than that and you could be paying too much for your room, as hotels will often overestimate future demand. However, if you wait too long, you might find that the hotel has been completely booked.

  4. When you utilize search filters on Expedia, you'll be able to narrow down your results in a flash. These search filters cover a wide variety of factors you may be interested in when it comes to finding a cheap hotel in Ames, including amenities such as Free Breakfast, 2-star rating, or proximity to local attractions. You can even set filters for price limits to ensure that all the displayed results are within your budget.

Top Ames Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

What is Ames like for travelers on a budget?
Ames offers cheap accommodation options and a range of things to see and do, making it a great getaway spot for budget travelers. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions like Octagon Center for the Arts, Main Street Cultural District, and Hilton Coliseum.
What's the best accommodation for a budget-friendly stay in Ames?
Based on reviews, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames is a popular hotel for our travelers who want a more economical choice, and features free breakfast and free WiFi.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Ames?
Weather is probably a major factor when you plan your trip to Ames, and keep in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually July and August with an average temp of 71°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 27°F. The snowiest months in Ames are January, March, February, and November, with each month seeing an average of 7 inches of snowfall.
What is there to see and do in Ames?
Ames draws tourists with its fantastic dining options and shopping, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the top local attractions on your list, and then make time for activities that cost little or nothing at all. Enjoy the outdoors at Reiman Gardens and Iowa Arboretum, or check out the area's cultural spots like Brunnier Art Museum.
How can I get to Ames and get around on a budget?
Checking out these ways to get around Ames can help keep you on budget. The most convenient airport is 33.9 mi (54.6 km) away from the center in Des Moines International Airport (DSM). Ames may not have many public transit options to choose from so renting a car could be an economical alternative to explore the area.

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