Spring in Ames brings fresh energy and plenty to explore! From sunny patios and blooming parks to local markets and seasonal events, the city comes alive with simple ways to enjoy the warmer days. Whether you’re getting outside or checking out what’s happening around town, this spring bucket list highlights the best of Ames.
Clean out & decorate your space
Get out of the winter rut with a fresh start at home using thoughtfully crafted products from Life Distilled. This local shop offers a curated selection of high-quality cleaning, personal care, and wellness items made with truly pure, nature-derived ingredients. Alongside in-house blends, the shelves feature trusted makers, many based right here in Iowa, making it easy to refresh any space with products that are both effective and intentional.
Z.W. Mercantile also offers a thoughtful selection of sustainable, reusable products for the home. Take advantage of the in-store refill station to stock up on everyday essentials while cutting down on waste, making it easy to shop more eco-friendly without sacrificing convenience.
Once your home is feeling fresh, add seasonal touches with décor from Everts Flowers Home & Gifts! From candles and hand towels to outdoor plaques and art poles, there are plenty of options to brighten any space for spring.
For even more inspiration, stop by The Shops at Clark & Main, where a curated mix of home décor pieces makes it easy to refresh and elevate a space for the season.
Patios to take advantage of
Grab your friends and head to Della Viti’s patio for a drink! Located in downtown Ames, it’s the perfect place to shop, then unwind. As Iowa’s first self-serve wine bar, Della Viti lets you explore a wide range of wines — choose a taste, half glass, or full pour and sample selections from across the country.
Discover the magic of Alluvial Brewing Company as spring comes to life, and you may never want to leave. Surrounded by blooming prairie and fresh greenery, this dreamy patio is the perfect place to welcome warmer days. With live music often filling the air and a lineup of thoughtfully crafted brews, it’s an ideal spot to relax, unwind, and soak in the season.
If you’re craving comfort food to pair with those sunny spring afternoons, stop by Cornbred. While the patio is open year-round, spring is when it truly shines—drawing locals out to enjoy longer days, warmer evenings, and the unbeatable combo of smoky barbecue and refreshing drinks in the open air.
For a fresh perspective this season, make your way to the rooftop patio at Wallaby’s Bar and Grille. As the temperatures, this elevated spot becomes the perfect place to gather with friends, take in the crisp spring breeze, and enjoy the vibrant energy of Ames from above.
Nature is calling
Getting outdoors is the first thing on many people’s spring checklist, and the Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor at the ISU Research Park is a perfect spot to explore. With 37 acres, a wetland boardwalk, and interactive features, it’s an ideal place to relax after a long winter.
Another great option is Ada Hayden Heritage Park, refreshed in 2025 with wider concrete trails and improved path connections throughout. Whether you’re looking to take a stroll, ride your bike, catch a fish, or plan a picnic, this city park is the perfect place to soak up the spring sunshine.
Grab the family or some friends
There is an abundance of spring shows at Stephens Auditorium, from youth performances and matinees to live music and comedy shows. Take a day to enjoy all the shows Stephens Auditorium has to offer:
- The Pout Pout Fish – April 1 (10 a.m. & 12 p.m.)
- Peter Pan – April 4 (1 p.m. & 6 p.m.)
- The Fab Four – April 10 (7:30 p.m.)
- World Ballet Company: Cinderella – April 14 (7 p.m.)
- ISU Theatre: Peter and the Starcatcher – April 16-18 (7:30 p.m.)
- The Fashion Show – April 18 (7 p.m.)
- CeCe Winans: More Than This Tour – April 23 (7 p.m.)
If the Spring Enchantment at Reiman Gardens isn’t on your spring checklist yet, it should be. From April 1–30, experience the gardens in a whole new way with extended evening hours, a whimsical fairy garden, and vibrant seasonal blooms. Don’t miss the Spring Enchantment Festival on April 18, featuring live music, food trucks, an art festival, and fields of tulips in full color, an unforgettable way to celebrate the season.
And Rovers at Reiman is back every Tuesday during the month of April. Bring your furry friend to the gardens to sniff and explore!
As spring continues, head to downtown Ames for 515 Day in Downtown Ames on May 15. This lively celebration brings the community together with local live music, a food truck showdown, a family-friendly zone, a beer tent, and plenty of entertainment throughout the day.
The Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market returns in 2026 bigger than ever, celebrating its 16th season. With around 95 vendors each week and an expanded footprint along the 200 block of Main Street, it’s a must-visit spring tradition. Browse fresh produce, handmade goods, and baked treats while enjoying live music, great food, and the energy of the local community.
And you won’t want to miss Pizza Pie Looza in Nevada. This annual event is filled with activities, live music, and pizza, what could be better than that?
