Whether you’re cheering on your team or just enjoying a low-key weekend away, Ames offers a variety of places to explore during football season, basketball season, or any time in between! Stroll through the bars and cafes in Campustown, grab a cocktail or do some shopping downtown, and unwind at the Reiman Gardens or nearby Ledges State Park.

Written by: Nicole Stofer, DSMG Contributor // Featured Photo: Iowa State University

Eats

Breakfast

The Cafe – A longstanding cafe integrating locally grown seasonal ingredients, serving breakfast and open all day through dinner. There are also delicious baked goods and grab and go options if you need something to take with you.

Dutch Oven Bakery – A smaller version of the Boone location, this bakery has ALL the homemade treats: donuts, pastries, danishes, cookies, pies, and sandwiches. The cozy spot turns out some excellent pastries, but the breakfast croissant sandwich deserves its own shoutout; it’s a must-try.

Flip’N Jacks – Start your day with some Flapjack selections, everything from classic buttermilk pancakes to over‑the‑top favorites like the Lemon Blueberry Danish or S’moreo pancakes. There’s also a variety of crepe options like the fruity Strawberries & Cream and Peachy Keen, or egg and omelet dishes if you’re after a more traditional breakfast.

The Grove Cafe – Friendly, old school diner vibes with a full breakfast menu.

The Mucky Duck Pub – A unique British pub with traditional dishes such as a full English breakfast, English scones, and bangers and mash.

El Jefe – El Jefe offers hearty Mexican-style breakfasts featuring favorites such as chilaquiles, pancakes, and huevos rancheros, on Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Lunch & Dinner

Cornbread – Cornbread serves up comfort food with Southern flair. Smoked meats, skillet mac & cheese, and delicious cocktails all in a modern, yet laid-back setting that was once a train depot. There’s also a large patio if you’re looking for an outdoor dining space. 

Szechuan House – Szechuan House brings the heat with authentic dishes that pack flavor and spice. The menu is extensive and best with a group so you can try several of the dishes. 

Great Plains Pizza – A longtime Ames favorite; grab pizza by the slice or go all in with one of their deep-dish pies. Another notable pizza joint open from lunch ‘til late is  Jeff’s Pizza Shop.

Aunt Maude’s – Aunt Maude’s blends classic Midwestern hospitality with a seasonal, upscale menu and solid wine list.  

Provisions Lot F – Bright, modern, and slightly upscale. Provisions is a solid bet for brunch, lunch, or a casual dinner. 

West Street Deli – West Street Deli has a loyal following for good reason: they’ve been making soups and sandwiches with fresh and often local ingredients for over twenty years! 

Dublin Bay Irish Pub & Grill – A cozy Irish pub serving up hearty comfort food and traditional Irish fare. Don’t miss the delicious Irish soda bread served with soups and salads or available as an appetizer. 

Fuji Japanese Steakhouse – A lively destination for group dining- serving steak, sushi, and hibachi favorites. 

Drinks

Coffee & Tea 

Burgies – A local favorite with a drive-thru and a solid lineup of espresso drinks, smoothies, and baked goods.

Stomping Grounds – A cozy, lived-in campus staple with coffee, a solid breakfast, and the kind of vibe that makes you want to linger with a book or laptop.

Morning Bell – Ames’ small-batch roastery tucked into the Main Street district. The coffee is thoughtfully sourced and the pour-overs are worth the wait.

Tea Time – Bubble tea, fruit tea, and smoothies!

Libations

Tip Top Lounge – Originally the Tip Top was a sandwich shop that opened in 1950 and later transitioned into a lounge in 1962. If you like dive bar vibes and a bit of history, swing by for an early morning Bloody Mary or a nightcap; they are open all day! 

Welch Ave. Station – Casual local bar in Campus Town that’s been serving up drinks for over 30 years. Make sure to try one of the daiquiri slushies while you’re there! 

Cellar 626 – Craft cocktails are served Thursday through Sunday in this somewhat hidden gem located behind Cyclone Liquors. 

Della Viti – Main St. wine bar with a variety of drinks and small charcuterie plates.

Cafe Beaudelaire – An Ames staple since the ‘90s, offering a full drink menu and  globally inspired food menu.

London Underground – Brit pub meets basement indie venue, with daily specials, a solid beer list, and an occasional live music set or DJ.

Wallaby’s Bar and Grill – A classic sports bar feel with a local twist, Wallaby’s is your go-to for burgers, beers, and watching the game from the city’s only rooftop patio. 

To Do

Arts & Music

Octagon Center for the Arts – A creative hub in the heart of downtown that hosts rotating exhibits, classes, and a popular annual art festival.

Brunnier Art Museum – Campus museum located inside the Iowa State Center with a focus on decorative arts. 

Stephens Auditorium – Performing arts theatre hosting musicals, concerts, lectures, dance performances and more!  

The Maintenance Shop – Tucked inside the Memorial Union at Iowa State, “The M-Shop” is an intimate venue that has hosted various types of live music from indie acts to jazz nights since 1974.

Noir – Prohibition themed bar with sophisticated lounge vibes, over 90 American bourbons, pizza and other small bites, and live music most weekends.

Shopping

The Shops at Clark & Main – a fun stationary shop and a sustainable eco shop both under one roof 

Oak Lane Candle Co. – hand poured soy candles and a pour-bar to make your own

The Slow Era – vintage and handmade items in a vibrant setting, they’ve even got some retro Iowa State attire! 

We the Dreamerz – women’s environmentally conscious boutique with cute clothing and accessories 

Worldly Goods – non-profit, fair trade goods supporting artisans from around the world 

Savor on Main – all of the finest cheese and charcuterie you could need for your tailgate 

Little Woods Herbs and Tea – enjoy a drink at the tea bar, or browse a selection of  loose-leaf teas and spices to take home

Piece and Freedom Bakery – woman owned Ukrainian bakery specializing in Ukrainian and other European desserts

Ames Farmers Market – locally grown produced, baked goods, and hand crafted items each Saturday morning May through October

Nature

Photo: Ledges State Park by Nicole Stofer

Reiman Gardens – A seventeen-acre botanical garden with over twenty distinct garden areas, including an enchanting butterfly wing and an enclosed Conservatory with a variety of tropical plants perfect for any season.

Ledges State Park – Technically in Madrid, but worth the half-hour drive if you’ve got the time! One of the oldest state parks in Iowa, with gorgeous views, hiking trails, sandstone bluffs, and camping.  Swing by Public House 421 in Slater for a delicious espresso pick-me-up on your way, or stop at Whatcha Smokin’ BBQ in Luther if you’ve worked up an appetite after hitting the trails.

Want more road trip recommendations?

We have an Iowa City, Kansas City, and a Decorah guide. Where should we go next? Let us know in our Instagram DMs!