Hotels near Iowa State University

Top reasons to visit Iowa State University

• Thrilling Sports Events: Experience the excitement of Iowa State University's football and baseball games, perfect for sports enthusiasts.
• Vibrant Tourist Attractions: Discover live music, charming getaways, and delightful activities in Ames surrounding the campus.
• Beautiful Campus Grounds: Explore the picturesque university grounds, ideal for families and outdoor lovers.
• Historic Neighbourhoods: Stroll through historic houses and scenic parks, soaking in the local culture.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Enjoy a range of hotels and motels, catering to various needs and budgets.

Find great hotels near Iowa State University

For those visiting Iowa State University, Ames offers a variety of hotel accommodations ranging from comfortable hotels to charming motels. Whether you require business facilities, pet-friendly options, or a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA travellers, you’ll find suitable choices. With convenient proximity to the university, these hotels are perfect for both leisure and business stays, ensuring a memorable experience during your visit to this vibrant campus.

• Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames: A budget-friendly lodging option located 6km from Iowa State University, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames is ideal for families and business travellers alike. This accommodation embraces a welcoming atmosphere, offering amenities tailored for children, including complimentary cribs and suitability for younger guests. The hotel is pet-friendly, allowing certain pets on the premises with specific policies in place. A deposit is required for pets, with fees waived for service animals, making it a suitable choice for those travelling with furry companions.
• Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University: Situated a mere 3km from Iowa State University, the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center is a 3-star property boasting a high guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This hotel combines family-friendly amenities with a professional setting, perfect for business travellers. Families can take advantage of free cribs, while pet owners will appreciate the dedicated facilities such as a dog exercise area and litter boxes. The hotel maintains a welcoming stance towards pets, ensuring that service animals can stay without any fees.
• Sonesta Essential Ames: Located 6km from Iowa State University, Sonesta Essential Ames offers a comfortable and budget-conscious stay for families and business visitors. This property features amenities tailored for children, including a video game console and a focus on child-friendly suitability. The hotel welcomes pets with specific policies, ensuring a hassle-free experience for pet owners, including variable fees and provisions for dogs and cats in rooms. Overall, it presents a practical choice for visitors seeking a friendly atmosphere.

Where to stay near Iowa State University

Ames, Iowa, is a charming city that perfectly complements your visit to Iowa State University. Just a stone's throw from the campus, you'll find delightful family-friendly activities, scenic parks, and vibrant neighbourhoods. Explore the picturesque university grounds, take in the local culture, and enjoy budget-friendly excursions. With its welcoming atmosphere and stunning views, Ames is a fantastic destination for a memorable travel experience.

• Ames: Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Ames is home to the esteemed Iowa State University. This vibrant city offers a blend of cultural and family-themed experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. With a steady influx of visitors throughout the year, the peak season is from June to August. Highlights include a modern college campus, a sports facility stadium, and an event conference venue, along with various shopping centres. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of the city while exploring educational opportunities and local attractions.
• Nevada: Located a mere 16km from Iowa State University, Nevada is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic retreat. While visitor numbers peak during the summer months of June to July and in September, the city attracts a steady flow of tourists year-round. Popular activities include golf and shopping at local centres, complemented by attractions such as a picturesque lake and modern college facilities. This quaint city offers a delightful blend of leisure and adventure.
• Central Iowa: A short 23km journey from Iowa State University, Central Iowa is renowned for its stunning scenery and outdoor experiences. With visitor numbers peaking from June to August, this region remains a lovely escape throughout the year. Highlights include urban parks and lakes that provide ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration. The area offers shopping centres and educational institutions, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy natural beauty alongside urban conveniences.

Things to do near Iowa State University

Shopping

The nearest shopping option is the Ames Mall, offering a variety of stores for clothing and gifts. If you're up for a drive, check out the Merle Hay Mall in Des Moines, where you can find a wider selection of shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs.

Recreation

The Iowa State University Wellness Center offers a variety of fitness classes, swimming facilities, and wellness programmes to help you rejuvenate. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings at Reiman Gardens, where you can stroll through themed gardens and admire stunning plant displays, perfect for relaxation and reflection.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Boone Speedway, located 19km from Iowa State University. Feel the adrenaline rush as you watch exciting races unfold, all while soaking in the vibrant sports atmosphere that surrounds this popular venue.

Nightlife

The nightlife at Iowa State University offers a vibrant mix of activities. For a lively atmosphere, check out the Campustown area, featuring local bars and music venues. Enjoy live performances at the Maintenance Shop or unwind with friends at The M-Shop, both popular spots among students and visitors alike.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Iowa State University

For a budget-friendly visit to Iowa State University, consider travelling between November and January when accommodation prices are lower. Opt for a Monday stay, the cheapest day, and utilise Expedia to compare hotel prices and filter for eco-friendly options. Save even more by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into a package. Additionally, explore free activities on campus and use public transport for cost-effective travel around Ames. With these tips, you can enjoy a memorable trip without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Iowa State University are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Iowa State University is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Iowa State University is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at Iowa State University with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Iowa State University

A visit to Iowa State University in Ames offers a delightful blend of attractions, including urban parks, charming neighbourhoods, and historic houses. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, you can explore the ISU campus and the Iowa State Center. Nearby amenities such as hotels in Iowa ensure a comfortable stay, making it easy to enjoy all that this vibrant area has to offer.

• Reiman Gardens: A delightful urban park located 2km from Iowa State University, Reiman Gardens offers a vibrant outdoor experience with beautiful landscapes, themed gardens, and seasonal displays. Ideal for families, visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls, educational programmes, and butterfly exhibits amidst a serene atmosphere.
• Main Street Cultural District: Situated 3km from campus, this lively neighbourhood is the heart of Ames' cultural scene. Featuring a mix of shops, galleries, and eateries, it provides a unique urban vibe that embraces local art and community events, perfect for immersing oneself in the town's spirit.
• Farm House Museum: Only 644m away, this historic house museum showcases Iowa’s agricultural heritage. With engaging exhibits and charming grounds, visitors can delve into the region's cultural history and explore the life of early settlers in a quaint, inviting setting.

Best time to go to Iowa State University

The best time to visit Iowa State University is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Iowa State University

Accessing Iowa State University is convenient through several major airports. Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is 55km away, with nearby hotels like Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton, and Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale, both rated 4.5 stars. Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) is 119km distant, offering options such as The Black Hawk Hotel (3.5 stars) and Isle Casino Hotel - Waterloo (3 stars). Finally, Mason City Municipal Airport (MCW), located 129km away, features hotels like Best Western Holiday Lodge and Lakeside Inn, both providing limited-hour airport shuttle services. Each airport is accessible from its respective hotels, ensuring a smooth arrival experience.