Kick off your summer in the best way possible — exploring Ames! From the weekly Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market to live music throughout the town, June in Ames is nothing short of exciting. Find the best activities, places to eat, and local shopping experiences in Ames this month!
Get Outdoors Day at McFarland Park
Story County Conservation is hosting Get Outdoors Day on June 14 as a free, public park event to celebrate National Get Outdoors Day! Activities for the day include paddling, s’mores, bird hikes, minnow races, touch-a-truck, a pollinator / beekeeping activity, meet & greet with the Story County Animal Shelter, and much more!
Art Walk in downtown Ames
The annual Art Walk is a great event that showcases downtown businesses as well as community artists! On June 5, discover the artwork of dozens of artists including painters, jewelry makers, photographers, woodworkers, potters, sculptors, and musicians.
Relax on the patio
With the weather warming up, it’s the perfect time to take your drinks outside and soak up the sunshine! Della Viti, Iowa’s first self-serve wine bar, offers a great patio to unwind after a day of shopping in downtown Ames. For a laid-back vibe with tasty appetizers, Dublin Bay is another awesome spot to relax with friends and family. And if you’re in the mood for a fun atmosphere and cold drinks, Sweet Caroline’s has you covered with outdoor seating and lively energy all summer long.
Visit the gardens
Reiman Gardens is buzzing with events this month! Don’t miss the annual Rose Show on June 14 or the always-popular Lily Show on June 28. Looking for something the whole family can enjoy? Check out Pollinator Fest on June 21—it’s a fun and educational day for all ages.
Over at the Iowa Arboretum and Gardens, Tunes in the Trees is the place to be! Wander through the Treehouse Village, grab a bite from local food trucks, and enjoy live music in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market
There are plenty of chances this summer to explore the Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday from May to October. It’s a vibrant community event featuring fresh produce, meats, baked goods, flowers, handmade items, and more. Enjoy live music, fun weekly activities, and local vendors as you explore downtown.
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Sounds of summer
Get in the groove with live music happening all month long! Head over to Alluvial Brewing for laid-back vibes, great local beer, and live performances from talented local musicians. Cornbred mixes delicious BBQ with a side of live tunes—perfect for a fun night out. Ames on the Half Shell keeps the music going every Friday with a lively outdoor concert series that’s great for all ages. And don’t miss Roosevelt Summer Sundays, a beloved community tradition featuring free live music in the park—just bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the summer sounds.
