$49 Cheap Flights to Ames, IA

Flights to Ames at a glance

Getting to Ames is easy—choose between full-service and budget airlines, and compare flight schedules to find the best fit for your budget and itinerary. With options for affordable Ames flights, you can plan your adventure to explore the city's renowned landmarks and charming neighborhoods.

• Major airports near Ames: Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO)
• Closest airport to Ames: Des Moines International Airport, DSM (around 34 miles)
• Flights per week: 1,950+ flights arriving across Ames airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Ames: around 10+ carriers

Popular airports near Ames

Ames is a vibrant city perfect for family getaways, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. Visitors are drawn to its scenic beauty and family-friendly attractions. Two major airports serve the area, providing convenient options for travelers seeking flights to Ames, Iowa.

• Des Moines International Airport (DSM): Found in Polk County, Iowa, approximately 34 miles from Ames, this airport offers both domestic and international flights. It connects travelers to over 175 domestic cities and more than 45 international destinations. Passengers can opt for upgrades to first class or premium economy seating for enhanced comfort, depending on their chosen airline. Major airlines operating here include American Airlines, United, and Delta.
• Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO): Situated in Black Hawk County, Iowa, about 72 miles from Ames, this airport primarily serves domestic routes, linking travelers to around 6 cities nationwide. The prominent airline providing services at this airport is American Airlines.

Top routes to Ames

• Denver (DEN) to Ames (DSM), with one-way airfare from around $45
• Phoenix (PHX) to Ames (DSM), with one-way airfare from around $90
• Orlando (MCO) to Ames (DSM), with one-way flight options from around $70
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Ames (DSM), with one-way tickets available from around $120
• Seattle (SEA) to Ames (ALO/DSM), with one-way flight options from around $140

Cheapest routes to Ames

• Denver (DEN) to Ames (DSM), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $45
• St. Louis (STL) to Ames (DSM), with affordable one-way prices from around $50
• Orlando (MCO) to Ames (DSM), with low one-way fares from around $70
• Houston (IAH/HOU) to Ames (DSM), with cheap one-way fares from around $85
• Phoenix (PHX) to Ames (DSM), with budget one-way fares from around $90

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Ames

• American Airlines: Offers flights to Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) and Des Moines International Airport (DSM), contributing roughly 36% of arrivals to Ames. The typical one-way fare hovers around $280, with first-class service available on select routes.
• United: Provides connections to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), making up about 27% of arrivals in Ames. Average one-way fares are around $300, with the possibility of first-class seating depending on the specific route.
• Delta: Serves Des Moines International Airport (DSM), accounting for approximately 21% of arrivals to Ames. The average one-way fare is roughly $270, with premium options like premium economy and first class available on certain routes.
• Southwest Airlines: Flies into Des Moines International Airport (DSM), representing about 12% of arrivals to Ames. Travelers can expect average one-way fares of around $250, making it a budget-friendly choice.
• Frontier Airlines: Operates flights to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), contributing nearly 3% of arrivals to Ames. With average one-way fares around $150, it is a low-cost option for travelers.

Best time to fly to Ames

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Ames are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Ames can reach up to 49.5°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 66.2°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $228), roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? October, May, and August offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $233 to $248, making them good options for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Ames

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Ames is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Ames hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Ames flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Ames

Ames welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Ames efficiently:

• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Ames, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Ames is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Ames on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Ames

• Boone: Boone is located 14 miles drive away from Ames and is a city renowned for its outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors are drawn to this area for activities like camping and motor racing. Key attractions include the modern Iowa State University and the picturesque Ledges State Park, perfect for those seeking adventure and nature. Don’t miss the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad and Museum, which provides a glimpse into the region's historical charm while offering beautiful views of the countryside.
• Kelley: Kelley is located 6 miles drive away from Ames and offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and urban experiences. This charming city is perfect for those who love nature and the city life. Explore the lovely Reiman Gardens for a family-friendly outing or catch an event at the Stephens Auditorium, ideal for business travelers. With the modern Iowa State University nearby and shopping centers within reach, Kelley combines education and recreation seamlessly.
• Nevada: Nevada is located 8 miles drive away from Ames and is a city that caters to outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic getaway. The area features lovely parks like Meadow Lane Park, which is great for family outings, while sports fans can enjoy events at Cub Stadium. Close to Iowa State University, Nevada provides a vibrant city atmosphere with opportunities for shopping and golfing, making it an appealing destination for diverse travelers.

Tips for short-haul flights to Ames

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more cost-effective. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits carefully. This approach also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself entertained, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts beforehand, and consider bringing a book. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Ames

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may permit seat selection even earlier.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to get to the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights, allowing adequate time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and readily available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin acclimating your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival point to help minimize jet lag.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Ames

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Ames on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

October is the cheapest month to fly to Ames. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Ames. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Ames, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Ames

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Ames in 2026 starts from $102, while one-way tickets start from from $49. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Ames. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Ames

Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United, Delta are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Ames. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Ames and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Ames, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Ames. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Ames plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Ames

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Ames.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Ames are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Ames. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Ames for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Ames. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Ames flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Ames. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.