Things to Do in Ames Iowa: A Surprising Travel Gem
We were on our way to Minnesota to attend Unicon21 and decided to make a stop in Ames Iowa. Usually, we keep our stops brief, but this time we took a day to explore the area, and we’re so glad we did! If you’re looking for unique things to do in Ames Iowa, this charming college town offers unexpected delights that will surprise even the most seasoned travelers.
Located in the heart of Iowa, Ames is home to Iowa State University and boasts a vibrant arts scene, beautiful gardens, and fascinating public art installations. What started as a simple rest stop turned into a memorable day of discovery, proving that sometimes the best travel experiences happen when you least expect them.
Discovering Ames Iowa’s Unique Metal Art Scene
We have a love for all things large, metal, and unique, so when we stumbled upon a metal turkey at The Iowa Turkey Federation, we had to stop and take a quick picture. The feathers on the turkey are simply magnificent, and the detail work on the entire piece is so intricate. The metalwork impressed us beyond words!
This stunning metal turkey sculpture stands as a testament to Iowa’s agricultural heritage and artistic creativity. The craftsmanship involved in creating such detailed featherwork from metal demonstrates the skill of local artisans. Each feather appears to catch the light differently, creating a dynamic visual experience that changes throughout the day.
But that’s not all; we also came across an amazing Woman’s Head sculpture, also crafted entirely from metal. The details on the sculpture amazed us, especially the flowing look of her hair. Upon closer inspection, we could even see the individual metal hair strands!
These metal sculptures represent just a fraction of the public art that makes Ames Iowa special. The city has invested significantly in outdoor art installations, creating an open-air gallery that visitors can explore for free. The attention to detail in these pieces rivals museum-quality work, yet they’re accessible to everyone walking through the community.
Reiman Gardens: A Horticultural Paradise in Ames
Another compelling reason to consider visiting Ames is Reiman Gardens! This 17-acre botanical wonderland serves as one of the premier attractions for nature lovers exploring central Iowa.
Beautiful gardens, sculptures, a butterfly garden and lots more! Check out that post here 🙂
Reiman Gardens offers an incredible diversity of themed garden spaces, each designed to showcase different aspects of horticulture and landscape design. The rose garden features over 2,000 roses representing dozens of varieties, creating a spectacular display of color and fragrance during peak blooming season.
The butterfly wing houses hundreds of tropical butterflies in a climate-controlled environment, allowing visitors to experience these delicate creatures up close year-round. Children and adults alike are enchanted by the opportunity to observe butterflies feeding, mating, and going through their life cycles in this immersive environment.
Hidden Gems and Local Attractions in Ames Iowa
Beyond the major attractions, Ames offers numerous hidden gems that reward curious travelers. The Iowa State University campus itself serves as an attraction, with its beautiful architecture and well-maintained grounds. The Memorial Union building features stunning murals and serves as a hub of campus activity.
Downtown Ames provides excellent shopping and dining opportunities, with locally-owned restaurants serving everything from farm-to-table cuisine to international specialties. The Main Street Cultural District hosts regular events, including farmers markets, art walks, and seasonal festivals that showcase the community’s vibrant culture.
For families traveling with children, the Ames Public Library offers incredible programming and a beautiful modern facility. The Furman Aquatic Center provides indoor swimming and recreational activities, while numerous parks throughout the city offer playgrounds, walking trails, and sports facilities.
Planning Your Visit to Ames Iowa
When planning things to do in Ames Iowa, consider the seasonal variations that affect different attractions. Spring and summer offer the best experience at Reiman Gardens, when outdoor plantings are at their peak. The butterfly wing operates year-round, making it an excellent winter destination.
Most of the metal sculptures and public art installations can be enjoyed throughout the year, though winter weather may affect accessibility to some outdoor pieces. The downtown area remains active in all seasons, with many restaurants and shops maintaining regular hours.
Parking in Ames is generally convenient and affordable, with most attractions offering dedicated visitor parking. The city is easily walkable in the downtown core, and many attractions are within a short driving distance of each other.
Where to Stay and Eat in Ames
Ames offers accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly chain hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. Many visitors choose to stay near Iowa State University, which provides easy access to both campus attractions and downtown amenities.
The local dining scene reflects both the agricultural heritage of Iowa and the international influences brought by the university community. Farm-to-table restaurants showcase locally-sourced ingredients, while ethnic restaurants offer authentic cuisines from around the world.
For quick stops like ours, several restaurants offer excellent takeout options, allowing travelers to enjoy quality local food without lengthy sit-down service. Coffee shops throughout the city provide comfortable spaces to plan the next leg of your journey while experiencing local hospitality.
Why Ames Iowa Deserves a Spot on Your Travel Itinerary
Our unexpected day in Ames Iowa proved that this central Iowa city offers far more than most travelers realize. The combination of outstanding public art, world-class botanical gardens, and genuine Midwestern hospitality creates a travel experience that exceeds expectations.
Whether you’re passing through on a longer journey or specifically seeking things to do in Ames Iowa, this community rewards visitors with authentic experiences and memorable discoveries. The city successfully balances its identity as a college town with its agricultural roots, creating a unique cultural environment that appeals to diverse interests.
From intricate metal sculptures that showcase artistic craftsmanship to expansive gardens that celebrate natural beauty, Ames provides the perfect blend of culture, nature, and small-town charm. Our brief stop turned into a day of wonder, and we’re already planning our return visit to explore even more of what this remarkable Iowa city has to offer.