Discover late-night adventures all around Ames! Catch live music in cozy bars and low-key venues showcasing local talent, test your knowledge at trivia nights in laid-back cafés and pubs, take a peaceful midnight walk through scenic trails, or spend your night unwinding from a long day on patios and rooftop bars.
Live music
Ames comes alive with music during the summer, offering plenty of spots to catch live performances. Grab dinner at local favorites like Cornbred or Wheatsfield Co-op, where you can enjoy great food paired with live tunes. This season, Reiman Gardens and Stephens Auditorium are joining forces to bring the Goldfinch Room in the Gardens—an outdoor concert series that blends natural beauty with soulful sounds. Want more? Discover even more live music hotspots around Ames on our blog.
McFarland Park
Take a late-night stroll and stargaze with your favorite people at McFarland Park. With winding trails and peaceful scenery, it’s the perfect escape to unwind and recharge. Bring your furry friends along, breathe in the fresh air, and soak in the quiet magic of nature after dark.
Torrent Brewing
Put your knowledge to the test at Torrent Brewing’s trivia night! Gather your friends, grab a pint from their wide selection of local brews, and enjoy a night of friendly competition, good vibes, and even better drinks.
Stephens Auditorium
Don’t miss an opportunity to see the next big thing on the Stephen’s Auditorium stage! The 2025/26 season was recently announced, and there are some BIG shows we can’t wait to see. Check out the new season on our events calendar or visit the Stephen’s Auditorium website.
Bar La Tosca
After catching a show at Stephens Auditorium, head over to a Campustown favorite, Bar La Tosca! This is the perfect place for a pre-show date night or grabbing drinks with friends after a long day at work. From starters like cheese plates and scallops to filling meals like wood-oven pizza and fettuccine, there’s something for everyone.
Wallaby’s Bar and Grill
Rooftop dinner and drinks? Count us in! Wallaby’s Bar and Grill in Somerset has the only rooftop patio in Ames and is the perfect place to catch up with friends and family over a glass of wine.
