Things to Do in Ames, IA

A short walk or a few minutes drive from Ansley, there is an abundance of diverse and convenient attractions. As the fall arrives, attend the ISU football games and tailgate with your friends and family or maybe you would prefer sit in your garden and hear the faint sounds of the roaring crowds. Enjoy childcare, healthcare, fitness facilities or frequent trips to the butterfly garden. Take advantage of all that is within arm’s reach.

Tedesco Learning Corridor

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  • A 37 acre natural learning park showcasing environmental preservation techniques through natural wetlands, prairie and trail connectivity.

Reiman Gardens & Butterfly Sanctuary

  • Explore a garden oasis and learn the art and science of gardening from ISU's School of Horticulture. Visit the tropical butterfly glass house and see up to 800 living butterflies.

ISU Research & Business Park

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  • A crown jewel of Iowa State is a growing technology community and incubator for new and expanding businesses. This 400 acre development is serving over 90 companies. A place where innovation happens.

Ames Racquet


& Fitness Center

  • Fitness and racquet facility open 24/7. Membership includes personal training, group fitness, racquet courts, massages and child care.

    Ames Cycling Center is located inside the club and provides premiere bike fitting, coaching and support at all levels.

Jack Trice
Stadium

  • The home of the lowa State's Cyclone football team in the Big 12 Conference. This is one of the most outstanding football venues with remarkable sight lines and enhanced game day experiences.

Hilton Coliseum

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  • Home of the Iowa State Cyclone basketball, wrestling, gymnastics and volleyball teams. It is also a premiere event venue to host events like the All State Music Festival, concerts and conventions. In the words of a fan... “‘Hilton Magic’ does exist and it is electrifying to witness.”

Stephens Auditorium

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  • Iowa State's large multilevel 2600 seat hall, hosting world-class performing artists including international performances of music, theater and dance.

Lily Pad Learning Center and Childcare

  • Located in the ISU Research Park, this learning center offers children a home away from home. For ages infant to 11 years old, Lily Pad has safe and developmentally appropriate learning environments. They offer after school and summer programs to foster a child's natural desire to learn the skills to become a life long learner. Voted "Best of Story County" 12 seasons in a row!

McFarland

Clinic

  • McFarland Clinic is a multi-specialty clinic serving the south Ames and ISU Research Park area. One location in a network of healthcare facilities serving central lowa.