Best Things to do in Ames | Must-see attractions 2025

Butterfly

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Monument

1407 University Blvd (Iowa State University)

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Butterfly Garden in Ames spans 17 acres with seasonal displays, a butterfly exhibit, sculptures, and various educational events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Private event rentals may incur fees.

Textile and Clothing Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1015 Morrill Hall Iowa State University

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The Textile and Clothing Museum in Ames, USA showcases the evolution of fashion and textile technology through its diverse collections.

Duration: 1.5 hours.

Free. Special events and certain exhibitions may require ticket purchases.

Iowa State University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

Ames

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Iowa State University, located in Ames, Iowa, is a public land-grant research university known for its high research activity and diverse academic offerings.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some specific events may require a paid ticket.

Octagon Center for the Arts

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

427 Douglas Ave

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The Octagon Center for the Arts in Ames, Iowa, is a non-profit organization that serves the community through art education, exhibitions, and events since 1966.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Stuart Smith Park Trees Rock

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Amusement Park

S 4th St (University & S 4th)

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Stuart Smith Park Trees Rock features diverse tree species and natural rock formations, offering an outdoor space for recreation and exploration in Ames, Iowa.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require registration or fees.

Willow Creek Open Bible Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Ames

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Willow Creek Open Bible Church in Ames, United States, offers a welcoming community atmosphere with engaging services and programs. Ideal for families and individuals seeking spiritual growth.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations accepted to support church activities and outreach programs.

Westside Church of Christ

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

107 Abraham Dr (Lincoln Swing St)

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Westside Church of Christ in Ames, United States, offers a welcoming community and various services dedicated to spiritual growth and connection.

Duration: 1-2 hours for services and community events.

Free. Donations are accepted to support church activities.

United Church of Christ Congregational

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Kellogg Ave. (6th Street)

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United Church of Christ Congregational in Ames, IA, emphasizes community, inclusivity, and social justice while engaging in various outreach programs.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community programs.

Ames Jewish Congregation

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Temple

3721 Calhoun Ave

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Ames Jewish Congregation offers a welcoming environment for Jewish worship, education, and community engagement in Ames, Iowa.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Ascension Lutheran Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

2500 Bloomington

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Ascension Lutheran Church in Ames, Iowa, offers a welcoming community and spiritual services, alongside notable architecture and programs for all ages.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations accepted for special programs.

Campus Baptist Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

57011 US Highway 30

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Campus Baptist Church in Ames, US, serves the community since 1969, offering worship services, educational programs, and community outreach. Family-friendly atmosphere.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations accepted for specific programs and outreach efforts.

First Baptist Church of Ames

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Lynn

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First Baptist Church of Ames is a historical church in Ames, Iowa, offering spiritual services, community events, and programs for all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for specific events and programs.

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church and Student Center

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

2210 (Lincoln Way)

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St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church and Student Center in Ames, United States, offers spiritual services and community support for college students and locals.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community outreach programs.

Bethesda Lutheran Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

1517 Northwestern Ave

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Bethesda Lutheran Church in Ames, United States, features striking architecture and rich community history, serving as a spiritual center since its establishment.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free admission. Donations are welcomed for special events and programs.

Friendship Baptist Church ames iowa

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

Ames

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Friendship Baptist Church in Ames, Iowa, is a significant place of worship known for its community outreach, engaging services, and welcoming atmosphere.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations for community outreach programs are appreciated.

Collegiate United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–3:00 PM

Church

2622 Lincoln Way

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Collegiate United Methodist Church in Ames, Iowa, is a vibrant community hub known for its beautiful architecture, active congregation, and engaging programs.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for special events and programs.

Memorial Lutheran Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

2228 Lincoln Way

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Memorial Lutheran Church in Ames, Iowa, offers a welcoming community space with beautiful architecture and rich history, ideal for spiritual gatherings and community events.

Duration: Up to 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may require a donation.

Saint Johns by the Campus Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Iowa

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Saint Johns by the Campus Church in Ames, United States, provides a welcoming space for worship and community gatherings, featuring distinct architecture and rich history.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Events and special programs may have applicable fees.

Lifepointe Church

9:00 AM–12:30 PM

Church

409 13th St (Burnett Ave)

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Lifepointe Church in Ames, United States, offers community-driven worship services with a focus on spiritual growth and family-oriented activities.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Grand Avenue Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Ames

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Grand Avenue Baptist Church, located in Ames, Iowa, offers a historical setting for worship and community gatherings, featuring unique architecture and welcoming environment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free for regular services and community events; special events may have fees.

Moore Memorial Park

7:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

3050 Northridge Pkwy

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Moore Memorial Park in Ames, United States features gardens, walking trails, and picnic areas, providing a serene escape with nature and recreational activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have a fee.

Chinese Evangelical Free Church Of Ames

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

2008 24th St

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Chinese Evangelical Free Church Of Ames offers a welcoming space for worship and community activities, promoting cultural and spiritual enrichment in Ames, Iowa.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Brunnier Art Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

294 Scheman Building

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Brunnier Art Museum in Ames, Iowa features diverse collections of decorative arts and contemporary ceramics, emphasizing educational programs and cultural engagement.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

North Grand Mall

10:00 AM-9:00 PM

Mall

2801 Grand Ave

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North Grand Mall is a shopping mall located in Ames, Iowa. It features a variety of stores, local dining options, and community events.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Furman Aquatic Center

10:00 AM-8:00 PM

Amusement Park

1635 13th St

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Furman Aquatic Center is a fun indoor pool in Ames. It features a large water slide, a lazy river, and areas for both kids and adults.

Duration: approx. 2-3 hours

$5 for adults, $3 for children

Wheatsfield Cooperative

8:00 AM-8:00 PM

Store

413 Northwestern Ave

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Wheatsfield Cooperative is a local grocery store in Ames that focuses on organic and locally-sourced foods. It offers a variety of products from fresh produce to bulk goods and supports local farmers.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free