2026 Ames Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

Another one of Iowa State University’s interesting places includes the Brunnier Art Museum. This museum has an awesome collection of decorative art. A unique facet of the art industry, the museum is one of the best sightseeing destinations in IA. Founded in 1975 and located within a performing arts complex, the museum is truly one of a kind. Featuring decorative art exhibits like ceramics collections, doll collections, enameled metals, carpets, and more, Brunnier Art Museum is truly spectacular. The university collection also includes paintings, sculptures, textiles, furniture, and other decorative art objects. Visiting the museum is free, however, a donation is suggested. The museum is open year-round except for one month in the summer. If you’ll be passing through Iowa State University and are wondering what to do, we highly recommend checking out Brunnier Art Museum. Address: Scheman Bldg, 295, 1800 Center Dr, Ames, IA 50011, United States

If you’re looking for the best places to see in Iowa, be sure to visit Reiman Gardens. Situated on 17 acres of university-owned property, these Iowa State University gardens are a magnificent sight to see. As part of the University’s mission to educate students in the science of horticulture, Reiman Gardens opened in the early 1900s. Named for a University president whose interest was in horticulture, Reiman Gardens is a beautifully kept property that visitors are welcome to tour at their leisure. During a visit to Reiman Gardens, you’ll enjoy an ever-changing and evolving living garden. As the seasons change so do the themes of each garden. You’ll have the opportunity to explore many varieties of plants, aromatic herbs, rose gardens, towering palm trees, species specific to prairie land, and much more. The garden is also home to more than 800 beautiful and colorful butterflies who make their home in the garden’s tropical sanctuary. One of the best places to go in all of Iowa, Reiman Gardens is a delightful place to see. Address: 1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011, United States

We went with a pastrami melt paired with tomato basil soup, plus a salmon sandwich on the side. Everything felt warm, comforting, and just right for a relaxed meal. And of course, we couldn’t skip dessert — carrot cake to finish it all off 🥕🍰 #thecafe #ames #iowa #somerset #dessert #sandwiches

Campustown in Ames—packed with cafés, restaurants, and little shops that Iowa State students are always rotating through. From quick coffee runs to casual eats and late lunches, it’s the go-to strip between classes and hangouts. Always busy, always familiar, always a student favorite. #iowastate #iowastateuniversity #ames #iowa #campustown

Iowa, a state in the Midwest of the United States, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, clean and friendly cities, and historical/cultural attractions. Highlights include the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Reiman Gardens, the Field of Dreams movie site, and the historic river town of Dubuque along the Mississippi River. Must-visit attractions in Iowa: · Pappajohn Sculpture Park (Des Moines): An outdoor sculpture park in the city center featuring world-class art. · Field of Dreams Movie Site (Dyersville): The actual baseball field from the famous movie, a must-visit for film and baseball fans. · Reiman Gardens (Ames): A large botanical garden near Iowa State University, beautiful year-round. · High Trestle Trail Bridge (Madrid): One of Iowa's most scenic bike and pedestrian bridges, perfect for enjoying the views. · Mines of Spain Recreation Area (Dubuque): A peaceful natural area with trails and views of the Mississippi River. · Grotto of the Redemption (West Bend): A religious architectural site made from various stones and minerals. · Fenelon Place Elevator (Dubuque): A funicular offering panoramic views of Dubuque and the river. Cities and activities of interest: · Des Moines (Capital): Visit the Iowa State Capitol and the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. · Iowa City: A university town rich in culture, featuring the Old Capitol Museum and the Museum of Natural History. · Dubuque: A historic river town with beautiful views and old architecture. Travel tips: · Best time to visit: Summer (June-August) offers warm weather and various festivals, such as the Iowa State Fair. · Weather: Iowa experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall. For outdoor activities, spring or summer is recommended. · Transportation: Renting a car is advisable as attractions are spread out.

The Death Valley Dark Sky Festival will be held from February 6 to February 8 at Death Valley National Park. This event celebrates the park's designation as a "Gold-Level Dark Sky Park" by the International Dark-Sky Association, recognizing its exceptional darkness and ideal stargazing conditions. The festival is jointly organized by several renowned institutions, including the Death Valley Natural History Association, NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Ames Research Center, Las Vegas Astronomical Society, SETI Institute, and Caltech. Visitors can participate in a series of astronomy-themed activities, including expert lectures, telescope observations, and educational workshops. The event offers a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of the night sky firsthand, learn about celestial phenomena, and interact with fellow astronomy enthusiasts. Join this festival to immerse yourself in the beauty of the universe under a star-filled sky and enjoy the tranquil and magnificent natural scenery of Death Valley!

🍓🍫 Borough Market, London 💕 . This is another market you can't miss when you're in London. I got to try the famous strawberries and they were delicious! The strawberries were so fresh. But if you buy them and make them yourself, I think it's even more worth it. Once you've tried them, you've arrived! 🥰 . We came during Easter and they were closed. And when we came on Monday, they were also closed. On Google Maps, it said they were closed on Mondays, but I talked to a friend and thought they might be open every day, and they were. LOL. Finally, on my third visit, on a Sunday, I finally got around to this market. There's so much food and the prices are so high, just like London. 🫠 . 📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/ucaZbzWHgAzLTGaK9?g_st=ipc . #paitraveller #paitravel #england #london #BoroughMarket #uk

Had a lovely lunch at Cornbred in Ames — delicious BBQ, soft cornbread, and even better company. The warmth and flavors made it a midday treat to remember. 🍖💛 #cornbred #ames #iowa #bbq #barbecue #brisket #spareribs

Last Saturday, the campus turned into a sparkling winter wonderland! Enjoyed a lovely walk with my friends under the falling snow. 🌨️❤️