TAKE FLIGHT AT REIMAN GARDENS
Reiman Gardens, a 17-acre public botanical garden with a tropical plant conservatory, Butterfly Wing, annual displays, seasonal events, and the world’s largest concrete gnome. Any time of year, you will be amazed by the fluttering of up to 800 live butterflies in the Butterfly Wing, representing as many as 80 different species, including the huge Madagascar Moon Moth and the stunning Blue Morpho. While you’re there, you may even see butterflies and moths emerging from their chrysalises.

GO DOWNTOWN
Downtown is the beating heart in the center of Ames. Discover downtown’s unique, independent shops and restaurants, festivals and special events, live music, and so much more! Be sure to check out downtown’s many shops and restaurants, including Dog-eared Books, Marmalade Moon, and RAYGUN.

EXPLORE CAMPUSTOWN
Location, location, location! Just across Lincoln Way from the ISU campus, you’ll find restaurants, coffee shops, essential shopping, a thriving nightlife, student housing, outdoor events … and a very cool vibe. Don’t miss out on these Campustown favorites: University Bookstore (for Cyclone gear), Blaze Pizza, Café Beaudelaire, Bar La Tosca/Stomping Grounds, and Pizza Pit Extreme. Throw a strike or play some billiards at the ISU Memorial Union’s CyBowl and Billiards or create a fun craft at The Workspace. You’re sure to get the full collegiate experience no matter where you go.

GET OUTSIDE
Ames is known for its recreational opportunities. With four golf courses, a park-like ISU campus, bike paths for miles, the lake at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, an outdoor aquatic center, and an impressive system of city parks, it’s time to get outdoors! Drive a few miles west of Ames and you’ll find Ledges, one of Iowa’s most popular state parks, as well as year-round activities at Seven Oaks and Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad and Rail Explorers.    

EXPERIENCE ART AND HISTORY
Iowa State is home to one of the largest campus art programs in the United States. Much of that art can be seen as you wander the grounds or explore campus buildings. But be sure to check out the Iowa State University Museums – Bunnier Art Museum, Christian Petersen Art Museum, and Farm House Museum – and the Anderson Sculpture Garden. In downtown Ames, you can visit the Ames History Museum and the Octagon Center for the Arts.

ENJOY SWEETS AND TREATS
Sometimes, you just need something sweet! Ames satisfies your cravings in a big way. Try the candy-bar-inspired sundaes at Hickory Park, European-style chocolates (and the BEST gelato) at Chocolaterie Stam, Iowa-State-themed ice cream on campus at the ISU Creamery, peanut butter pie at Aunt Maude’s, monster cookies at Cookies, etc., and ridiculously delicious pastries and desserts at The Café and Provisions Lot F.