Ames: From Railroad Town to Student Town
Sitting between Skunk River and Squaw Creek in the middle of the Midwest is the Iowa city of Ames. Established originally as a railroad town in 1864, Ames, IA was named after U.S. congressman Oakes Ames of Massachusetts who was a known promoter and champion of the transcontinental railroad system. Ames is part of Story County situated 35 miles away from Des Moines. As home to Iowa State University and the U.S Department of Agriculture's National Animal Disease Center, Ames' also boasts of a vibrant economy as seen in the numerous luxury hotels, big-name shops, and manufacturers headquartered in the city. The Ames Municipal Airport located 1 mile away from Downtown Ames serves over 66,000 residents and tourists.
Best Time to Visit
Tourism in Ames, Iowa peaks during the fall, so travelers can expect higher room rates. The ideal time to visit the city is in late summer when the temperature is temperate; precipitation is feasible but accommodations are 35% cheaper than what you would have paid in December. Median temperatures are reported to be between the mid-70s, a lot warmer than the median 30°F experienced during peak season.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Visitors heading out to Ames will not be disappointed by the number of attractions and activities the city has in store. Ames is known for the beautiful display of tulips at Reiman Gardens in spring and for its draft beers available at Torrent Brewing Company. Art aficionados can drop by Brunnier Art Museum and the Christian Petersen Art Museum or spend a fun-filled day with the family at Furman Aquatic Center located near Iowa House and MICROTEL Inn and Suites on 16th Street, and the Radisson Ames Conference Center at ISU.
Make your Ames Hotel Search Easy
Major Hotel Brands in Ames
Ames has wide verity of hotel chain accommodations, some of the most well-known Hotel Chains are Hampton Inn By Hilton, Baymont Inns & Suites By Wyndham & Super 8 Motel By Wyndham. Ames Hotel Brand Baymont Inns & Suites By Wyndham offers best value hotels and motels in the Ames neighborhoods. Most common amenities in these Ames hotel, motel and resort chains are Newspapers, In-room Safe and Vending Machines. If you have a favorite brand, sticking with a familiar chain can help you with special discounts and a comfortable stay. Top Ames hotel brands include:
Ames Cheap Motels
Ames also has Motels like Super 8 by Wyndham Ankeny/Des Moines Area & Super 8 by Wyndham Ames, which offer great discounts on room rates. If you're visiting Ames on a budget, you can reduce travel expenses by booking a motel room at one of the city's many affordable hotels which has cheap hotel prices. Motel Amenities like 24-hour front desk, Complimentary Breakfast and In-room Safe are very common in these motels. Some of these motels have deep discounts on room rates.
Economy Ames Hotels
If your vacation or business trip budget on lodging is not very high, you may want to consider these affordable hotels or affordable motels in Ames area. These affordable lodging properties come with basic amenities and good comfort, for example amenities like Free Early Check-in, Iron and ironing board and Hair Dryer. You may want to consider bed & breakfast if you want to make your Ames trip feel like you are at home. Ames motels are another alternative lodging option you have.
Up-Scale Luxury Ames Hotels
When you want the best amenities and the most comfort in your Ames hotel you have plenty of luxury options. Which are located in near landmark Center Grove Orchard, Furman Aquatic Center and Main Street Cultural District. Most of these upscale boutique hotel choices are of 4 star and 5 star rating with guest rooms and suites with finest furnishings and decor. Often near tourist activities, offering access to both nearby attractions and public transit.