Hotels in Ames

Ames: Where Academic Excellence Meets Lakeside Serenity and Sporting Spirit

Ames, Iowa, is a vibrant university town that effortlessly blends academic charm with outdoor adventure. Home to Iowa State University, it boasts a lively cultural scene, exceptional sports facilities, and engaging events year-round. Stroll through the picturesque downtown, where boutique shops and delightful eateries await. Nature enthusiasts will revel in the scenic beauty of nearby lakes and parks, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics. With a variety of hotels and suites near the ISU campus, Ames is an ideal base for travellers seeking a unique blend of education, recreation, and community spirit. Discover the heart of the Midwest in Ames!

Discover great hotels near Ames

Ames, Iowa offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from budget-friendly options to comfortable mid-range stays. You'll find charming inns, family-oriented hotels, and convenient motels that cater to both leisure and business travellers. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere and easy access to local attractions while exploring this vibrant college town. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travellers near Ames:

1. Budgetinn & SuitesOpens in a new window: This budget-friendly motel offers a comfortable stay for leisure travellers seeking a relaxing getaway in Ames. With a focus on simplicity and practicality, the hotel provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience. Guests appreciate the clean rooms and the welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a straightforward yet pleasant stay.
2. Super 8 by Wyndham Story CityOpens in a new window: Perfect for leisure travellers with pets, this budget-friendly motel embraces a pet-friendly policy, allowing for a delightful vacation experience. The hotel features clean and comfortable accommodations, with a friendly atmosphere that enhances the overall stay. Travellers love the courteous staff and thoughtful amenities, making it a welcoming retreat for those looking to enjoy their time in Ames with their furry companions.
3. Comfort Inn Story CityOpens in a new window: This inviting budget-friendly hotel is an excellent choice for leisure travellers seeking a warm and welcoming environment. Rated highly by guests, it features clean rooms with comfortable beds and a delightful breakfast service, ensuring a refreshing start to each day. The hotel's commitment to creating a friendly atmosphere, along with thoughtful touches in communal areas, creates a memorable stay for those looking to explore Ames.

Where to stay near Ames

Great areas to stay near Ames, Iowa, include Story City, Nevada, and Huxley. Story City is family-friendly with diverse dining options and sports activities, making it perfect for all ages. Nevada offers a welcoming atmosphere with shopping and dining. Huxley, though less defined, is appealing for its small-town charm. For first-time visitors, Story City is the ideal choice.

1. Story CityOpens in a new window: Story City is an excellent choice for families and those looking for a friendly, budget-friendly atmosphere. This charming town boasts a variety of family-friendly activities and dining options, making it an inviting spot for a relaxing stay. You can explore local sports events, enjoy shopping in quaint boutiques, or take part in community excursions. With a welcoming vibe and plenty of parks, Story City is perfect for a leisurely getaway or a fun-filled family trip. The local attractions include beautiful outdoor spaces and charming community events that highlight the friendly people of this delightful town.
2. NevadaOpens in a new window: Nevada is a lovely destination for travellers seeking a small-town feel with excellent shopping and dining experiences. This area is particularly family-friendly, offering a range of activities that cater to visitors of all ages. You can wander through local shops or enjoy a meal at the various dining establishments that reflect the town's character. Nevada's welcoming atmosphere and community spirit make it a great base for exploring the surrounding areas while indulging in some local culture.
3. HuxleyOpens in a new window: Huxley is a cozy little town known for its community spirit and friendly atmosphere. Although smaller in size, it offers a quaint ambiance ideal for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat. The town features local shops and dining options that highlight its unique charm. Huxley’s community events and seasonal attractions provide a glimpse into the local lifestyle, making it perfect for those wanting to enjoy a slower pace while still having access to nearby amenities.

Things to do in and around Ames

Ames is a vibrant hub for travellers, nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery. Enjoy leisurely hikes through scenic parks, catch a local football or baseball match, or soak up the lively atmosphere with open-air concerts and theatre performances. With its friendly charm and abundant outdoor activities, it’s a delightful stop for all.

• Boone SpeedwayOpens in a new window – Experience the thrill of motor racing at Boone Speedway, where roaring engines and competitive spirit create an electrifying atmosphere. Attend a race night to see local and regional drivers compete on the track, and feel the adrenaline rush that comes with high-speed action.
• Kate Shelley High BridgeOpens in a new window – Marvel at the impressive architecture of Kate Shelley High Bridge, a modern engineering feat that spans the scenic Des Moines River. Take a stroll along the bridge for stunning views of the surrounding landscape and capture some memorable photographs of this iconic structure.
• Birthplace of Mamie D. EisenhowerOpens in a new window – Step back in time at the Birthplace of Mamie D. Eisenhower, the childhood home of the former First Lady. Explore the historic house to learn about her life and the significant role she played in American history, as well as the charming features of the period.
• Farm House MuseumOpens in a new window – Visit the Farm House Museum to discover Iowa's agricultural heritage. This historic house showcases rural life in the 19th century and offers insights into farming practices, with exhibits highlighting the importance of agriculture to the region.
• Reiman GardensOpens in a new window – Relax and explore the beauty of Reiman Gardens, an urban park that features stunning floral displays, themed gardens, and peaceful walking paths. Spend time amidst nature, enjoying the vibrant colours and serene environments, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Ames

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Ames is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a comprehensive experience of the city's key landmarks, cultural sites, and historical attractions, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During this time, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including exploring the university, attending live music events, watching football and baseball games, and indulging in dining and shopping experiences that offer great value for money. With the potential for prices to drop during these months, Ames presents an excellent option for those travelling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals for hotels in Ames, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates as your travel date approaches. You could find it beneficial to activate email alerts or push notifications to keep informed about flash sales and special offers. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available through the app may assist you in comparing hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you’re more likely to see the best options. This way, if prices drop or rooms become available, you’ll be among the first to know, allowing for a timely booking.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you find a better deal for your stay in an Ames hotel. If you're in search of something a bit different, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and can sometimes offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we may suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, assisting you in your search for a suitable option.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Ames's excellent public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel situated further out that remains well-connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often great value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Ames

Ames experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 20.1°F (-6.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.8°F (23.2°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Ames are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.