Hotels in Ames, IA

Ames is the scenic home of the sprawling Iowa State University campus and has all the quaint college town appeal you’d expect—and so much more. With a unique art scene and charming Midwest attractions, there are many exciting things to see and experience during your trip. We have the best hotels in Ames to host you no matter the occasion, and we’re here to point you in the right direction for the top activities, restaurants and sightseeing for an incredible stay in Iowa.  

Ames has fantastic museums, theatres, amusement parks and outdoor adventures to keep you busy all day long. Visit the Brunnier Art Museum to see the impressive collection of artwork, sculptures and exhibits. Founded in 1975, the museum also hosts a curated galley of ceramics, glass, dolls, ivory, jade, and enameled metals.

Another museum to enjoy during your trip is the Ames History Museum. This destination brings you face-to-face with the interesting history of Ames, telling stories of the past through interactive exhibits and rare artifacts on display. Catch a show at the University of Iowa’s Stephens Auditorium, where performances, comedic routines and local events always provide something entertaining to enjoy.  

Our downtown Ames, IA hotels are right within the city’s famous art scene, where you can stay minutes away from two great locations to explore, the Christian Petersen Art Museum and The Octagon Center for the Arts. The Christian Petersen Art Museum is located in Morrill Hall on the Iowa State University campus, and its stunning architecture will stop you in your tracks. This museum's pronounced brick façade and vast size welcome you as you browse artwork sculpted by famed artist Christian Petersen while perusing exhibits, contemporary art and statues throughout. The Octagon Center for the Arts is another amazing location that offers inspiring architecture, art pieces and bold sculptures for all to enjoy. 

The Furman Aquatic Center is the perfect place to find family-friendly fun. If you are looking to make a splash, this awesome attraction offers a massive pool, water slides, splash pads, and a lazy river where you can drift until your heart’s content.  

The beautiful Iowa countryside offers plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Stroll through Reiman Gardens, where fragrant flowers, colorful plants and walking paths create a tranquil escape to nature. The gardens are well-known for having the world's largest concrete gnome, which is the perfect backdrop for a uniquely Ames picture to remember your trip by. From whimsy to wonderful, more quirky Ames delight can be found at Inis Grove Park. This eclectic park features creative playgrounds, walking trails, and picturesque forestry, where you take in the fresh air on a hike through the trees.  

With everything there is to see and do, start with a comfortable and luxurious room at one of our top hotels in Ames for the perfect launching pad to all your Iowa adventures.  

Don't forget to check out our hotels nearby in Boone, Ankeny and Johnston!