Find the best places to dine out and party hard on New Year’s Eve! Whether you’re craving an unforgettable dinner, a lively atmosphere, or a cozy spot to toast at midnight, this guide has you covered. From festive menus to late-night celebrations, discover the top local favorites guaranteed to make your night memorable.
Reserve your seat
Many restaurants around Ames are taking reservations and offering a specialized menu specifically for the New Years celebration!
- Make your night tasty and magical at Cornbred Barbecue! Enjoy specials like stuffed mushrooms, smoked salmon salad, smoked prime rib, crab & lobster mac and cheese, and more. Finish with a sweet treat—strawberry cheesecake, cappuccino mousse trifle, or triple-layer banana cake!
- Settle in for dinner at Aunt Maude’s, one of the best spots in town. It’s the perfect place to celebrate the new year, right in the heart of Downtown Ames. Indulge in oysters, slow roasted prime rib, rabbit ravioli, and chocolate cake for dessert!
- Any meal at Provisions Lot F is sure to leave you satisfied. Ring in the new year at this inviting spot in the beautiful Iowa State Research Park. From elevated dinner favorites to irresistible desserts, it’s the perfect place to celebrate.
- If you haven’t been to The Café yet, let New Year’s Eve be your excuse. Enjoy a warm farm-to-table experience, where each meal is based on seasonal ingredients grown by local farmers.
Have some fun
Discover places around Ames to take the family or friends to celebrate the new year!
- Take the kids to celebrate the New Year a little early at the Ames Public Library’s Noon Year’s Eve Party! Families with children of all ages are invited to drop in for crafts, a dance party, and an all-around fun way to wrap up 2025. Stick around until the end of the program for a toast with sparkling juice and a festive countdown to noon!
- Get ready for a night full of fun at 1850 Homestead’s New Year’s Eve Party! Grab your ticket and enjoy a delicious dinner catered by Smokehouse 72, live music by Jesse & The Medicine Men, festive party favors, and great photo opportunities.
- Celebrate with friends by dancing the night away at Daisy’s Dog House during their Disco & Divas New Year’s Eve Party! Put on your best disco outfit and enjoy an unforgettable night featuring drag performances, dancing, free champagne, and a midnight balloon drop.
- Head over to Time Out to celebrate the new year with The New Years Eve Gala! Sing karaoke all night long, grab drinks with friends, play a few arcade games, and enjoy a toast with free champagne at midnight!
If you’re in the mood for a low-key celebration, try some of Ames’ relaxed spots like Torrent Brewing Company, Whiskey River, or Della Viti.
More exciting events are available to view on our events calendar!
Stay cozy at home
If going out on New Year’s isn’t your style, we’ve got you covered!
- Shop charcuterie boards for a cozy New Year’s Eve night in at Savor On Main! Their curated selection of premium cheeses, meats, and specialty foods makes it easy to build a beautiful, delicious board for friends and family. With artisanal ingredients and expert craftsmanship, your celebration is sure to feel extra special.
- Staying in alone? Get a head start on your 2026 reading list and curl up with a good read from Dog-Eared Books! This cozy bookstore offers everything from new releases to beloved classics, making it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for! Whether you’re diving into a gripping novel or unwinding with something light, it’s the perfect way to spend your night.
- Refresh for 2026 in the comfort of your own home with goodies from Life Distilled. This shop offers all‑natural self‑care essentials like dry shampoo, essential oils, face creams, facial rollers, foaming soaps, and more to help you unwind and feel your best.
