Find hotels in Ames, IA from $71

Top reasons to visit Ames

• Diverse Activities: Ames offers a range of city and culture-themed activities, from NCAA events to local attractions.
• Scenic Outdoor Spaces: Enjoy beautiful parks and trails ideal for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
• Vibrant Nightlife: Experience lively nightlife with various venues that cater to different tastes.
• Charming Neighborhoods: Explore Isaac Newton Drive and discover unique neighborhoods filled with amenities.
• Variety of Accommodations: Find hotels and motels that cater to all preferences, including pet-friendly and LGBTQIA welcoming options.

Find great hotels in Ames

Discover a range of hotel accommodations in Ames, Iowa, perfect for every traveler. Whether you're looking for business-friendly amenities, pet-friendly options, or LGBTQIA welcoming experiences, you'll find a variety of hotels and motels to suit your needs. Explore the best hotels and spacious suites in Ames for a comfortable and memorable stay.

• Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames focuses on comfort and convenience. This family-friendly hotel offers amenities designed for both children and pets, making it an ideal choice for those traveling with loved ones. Enjoy complimentary cribs for the little ones, while furry friends can also feel at home with a flexible pet policy. The hotel’s welcoming atmosphere ensures a pleasant stay for families and business travelers alike, with essential services to meet your needs.
• Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University: This 3-star hotel boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, making it a top choice for visitors to Ames. Gateway Hotel and Conference Center offers a blend of comfort and versatility, catering to families, business travelers, and pet owners. With amenities like complimentary cribs and designated dog exercise areas, it’s designed for a seamless stay. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodations and easy access to Iowa State University, making it a perfect base for both leisure and work.
• Sonesta Essential Ames: A budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality, Sonesta Essential Ames is ideal for families and business travelers. The hotel is pet-friendly, allowing both dogs and cats, while providing a variety of child-friendly amenities, including video game consoles to keep the young ones entertained. The welcoming environment, combined with essential services, makes Sonesta Essential Ames a smart choice for those looking for comfort and convenience during their stay in Ames.

Where to stay near Ames

Ames, Iowa offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and vibrant city life. Explore its scenic parks and trails, perfect for outdoor adventures. The local nightlife is lively, with various venues to enjoy. Don't miss Isaac Newton Drive, where you can find charming neighborhoods and amenities that enhance your stay. Whether you're seeking culture or relaxation, Ames provides a welcoming atmosphere for all types of travelers.

• Kelley: Nestled a mere 6 miles from Ames, Kelley offers a charming escape characterized by its scenic landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors flock here, especially during the summer months from June to August, to enjoy activities such as camping and exploring the local shopping center. The town is home to a modern college university, a picturesque lake, and a contemporary bridge, making it a perfect destination for those who appreciate a blend of urban and natural experiences. Whether you’re hiking through the trails or enjoying a leisurely day at the lake, Kelley promises a refreshing getaway.
• Gilbert: Also located 6 miles from Ames, Gilbert presents a vibrant atmosphere where city life meets cultural charm. This family-friendly city is particularly popular from June to August, attracting visitors with its educational facilities and recreational areas. The town boasts access to a modern college university, a sports facility stadium, and a serene lake, offering plenty of activities for all ages. Gilbert's cultural events and community spirit create a welcoming environment that encourages exploration and connection, making it a delightful stop for travelers seeking a well-rounded experience.
• Nevada: Situated 8 miles from Ames, Nevada is a city that combines romantic charm with outdoor adventures. While the peak travel times are during the summer months and in September, this city offers a variety of attractions year-round. Visitors can enjoy golfing, shopping at local centers, and exploring the educational offerings nearby. The presence of a modern college university, alongside the scenic lake and sports facility stadium, provides a diverse range of activities. Nevada's blend of city life and natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for couples and families alike, promising memorable experiences.

Things to do in Ames

Ames, Iowa, offers a variety of activities perfect for city and culture-themed vacations, as well as family getaways. Visitors can enjoy NCAA events, explore local attractions, and shop at popular malls and centers. Whether you're looking for educational experiences or simply want to unwind over the weekend, Ames provides a blend of amenities and engaging activities to make your visit memorable.

Shopping

Ames offers great shopping at the Main Street Cultural District, featuring unique boutiques and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out the North Grand Mall, where you'll find popular retailers and dining options to complete your shopping experience.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Reiman Gardens, where you can stroll through beautiful flower displays and relax by the serene ponds. For an invigorating workout, try the trails at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, perfect for walking, running, or cycling amidst nature.

Adventure

The Ada Hayden Heritage Park offers scenic trails perfect for hiking and biking, alongside serene lakes for kayaking. For thrill-seekers, the Iowa State University’s Cyclone Sports Complex features rock climbing and outdoor sports, ensuring an adrenaline-filled experience amid beautiful surroundings.

Nightlife

Ames boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with venues like The M-Shop, offering live music and a cozy atmosphere, and Old Chicago, where you can enjoy craft beers and delicious pizzas. Don't miss the local bars along Welch Avenue for a lively pub experience and friendly vibes.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ames

• 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Ames with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.

Find the best attractions in Ames

Ames, Iowa, offers a delightful mix of city, culture, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore urban parks, charming neighborhoods, and historic houses that showcase the area's rich heritage. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, a vibrant city experience, or family-oriented attractions, Ames has something for everyone to enjoy during their vacation.

• Main Street Cultural District: Experience the vibrant heart of Ames, where you'll find an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The lively atmosphere is perfect for strolling, shopping, and dining, reflecting the city's unique character.
• Reiman Gardens: Enjoy a beautiful escape in this urban park, featuring stunning floral displays, themed gardens, and a butterfly garden. It's an ideal spot for families and nature lovers to relax, explore, and engage in outdoor activities.
• Farm House Museum: Delve into the agricultural history of Iowa at this historic house. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that highlight the region's farming heritage, offering a captivating glimpse into rural life.

Best time to go to Ames

The best time to visit Ames can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Ames falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Ames falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	20.1°F (-6.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	22.5°F (-5.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly 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	Average	Slightly High
June	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	73.8°F (23.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly 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	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	27.9°F (-2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Ames

Ames, Iowa, is accessible through several major airports. Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is 34 miles away, with excellent hotel options like the 4.5-star Hotel Fort Des Moines, just 4 miles from the airport. Other nearby hotels include the 4.5-star Hotel Renovo and Revel Hotel, both 9 miles away. Cedar Rapids Airport (CID) is 98 miles distant, with hotels such as the 4-star Doubletree by Hilton, 6 miles from the airport. Finally, Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) is 72 miles from Ames, featuring the 3.5-star Black Hawk Hotel, located 3 miles from the airport. Each hotel provides convenient access to their respective airports for travelers.