Spring break can mean many different things: a week off classes, nice weather, or a time to try new adventures. No matter what March 9 – 17 means to you, there’s no better way to spend it than in Ames. Here’s our list of the 7 best ways to spend spring break in Ames.
Explore the outdoors
If you’re from Iowa, you know that the weather can be a bit temperamental. However, Ames has attractions and beauty that can be seen no matter the temperature. Reiman Gardens, a beautiful 17-acre botanical garden, is a wonderful place to walk around and enjoy nature. Take the kids to explore the Spring break camps happening throughout the week. Or, head over to McFarland Park for more family fun at their Spring Break Day Out event. For more hidden gems and natural beauty, check out our Do page.
Read something new
Just because it’s not as cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t stay inside curled up with a good book. The Ames Public Library Book Sale is March 7 – 10 and is a great way to find deals on thousands of books, movies, and more. Another beloved bookstore in Ames is Dog-Eared books. While you’re browsing through their extensive book collection, pet the shop dog, Lovie!
Catch a show
There’s no shortage of local theater and live music in Ames. On March 9, head over to the Ames City Auditorium for Southbound: A Tribute to the Allman Brothers Band. The tributes don’t stop there, don’t miss a Joan Jett and the Black Hearts Tribute on March 23 and Thrash Metal on April 13. Beyond spring break, the sounds of Ames can be heard with music and shows at the Maintenance Shop, Stephens Auditorium, ACTORS, and the Ames Community Theater.
Cheer on the Cyclones
There’s no need to travel far and wide to represent cardinal and gold – there are plenty of Iowa State Athletics events happening right here in Ames. The Iowa State softball team has a tournament on March 15 – 17. Another fast-paced sport is the Iowa State tennis team, with matches on March 14 and 16. If you want to cheer for all sports, or are in need of a relaxed gameday experience, check out our guide to the Best places to watch the Cyclones.
@discoverames Hilton magic is in the air ✨🏀 What do you love most about @ISU Athletics? Let us know! #iowastate #basketball #ncaa #amesiowa #discoverames ♬ Back It up and Dump It (Dump Truck) – GC Eternal & Kinfolk Thugs
Jumpstart spring cleaning
It’s never too early to start dusting off winter in preparation for spring. To make the process a little easier, stock up on the best cleaning supplies in Ames. Buff City Soap has hand-crafted, plant-based soap with no harsh chemicals. The natural supplies don’t stop there: grab your new favorite laundry detergent or bath bombs. For zero waste options, check out Z.W. Mercantile. They make transitioning into less waste easy with reusable paper towels, dish soap bars, and a variety of durable brushes.
Stretch out
This time of the year is the perfect to shake off the winter blues and stretch out. Every Thursday, the Ames Yoga Center has Restorative Yoga Therapy from 12 – 1 p.m. This practice is good for your mind and body! For a weekend activity, Della Viti hosts a Yoga class on Saturday mornings from 10 – 11 a.m.
Suit up for St. Patrick’s Day
If there’s one thing Spring break means, it’s the start of St. Patrick’s Day festivities! Celebrate this lucky holiday early at one of Ames’ many Irish pubs, including the Angry Irishmen, Dublin Bay Irish Pub & Grill, Paddy’s Irish Pub, and Mickey’s Irish Pub. Stay up to date with all the events happening on St. Patrick’s Day in Ames with our events calendar.
Written by Bailey Wheeler, Marketing and Communications Intern
