Midterms can be stressful. We’ve got you covered with the best ways to alleviate stress and celebrate your hard work. With locations on and off campus, Ames is filled with endless opportunities to kick back and relax and take a well-deserved break from midterms.
Stay fueled
Needing a new study spot and a caffeine fix? Burgie’s Coffee is the perfect blend for student’s looking for an ideal study space off campus. And with locations in both north and south Ames, there are plenty of opportunities to branch out.
Get to work 100 feet above Iowa State’s Campus at Clouds. Not only will you be surround by picturesque views of Ames, but its location in Campustown makes it the perfect getaway for studying. Don’t forget to grab a snack from their European inspired menu and pair it with a hand-crafted coffee.
Start your day of studying off right with a hearty breakfast at the Filling Station. Located just off campus, this beloved breakfast joint not only serves up breakfast, but has an entire menu dedicated to coffee! If you’re searching for more breakfast places to dig in, discover the morning menus of Ames.
Take a brain break
Everyone deserves a brain break. Blow off some steam at the Iowa State Memorial Union. Inside lies a plethora of activities like CyBowl and Billiards, The Workspace, and the Maintenance Shop.
Enjoy a moment of creativity at the Octagon Center For the Arts. Engage with hands on workshops to recharge or inspire yourself at the newest art exhibition in the community gallery.
The leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and what better way embrace fall than with a stroll through Reiman Gardens. For an added bonus, students get in free when you show your student ID at the front desk!
Need a break from your everyday? Get lost within the pages of a book from Dog-Eared Books or check out a book from the Ames Public Library.
Working out your mind and body
Don’t sweat the stress of midterms. Get active at Ames Fitness Center to break a sweat. Take a lap in their heated indoor pool or enjoy a group fitness class with your friends.
Feel one with nature and explore the outdoors at Story County Conservation’s parks and trails! Hike the 5.5 miles of trails at McFarland Park or the 3.2-mile loop at Ada Hayden Heritage Park in North Ames.
Treat yourself
After a long day of studying treat yourself to a scoop of ice cream from Marmalade Moon. Each flavor is made in house, guaranteed to have you coming back for seconds. Every week brings new flavors, so you may have to stop by a few times to try them all!
Located on campus in the Food Science building lies the ISU Creamery. Treats at the creamery are made from scratch with each flavor honoring Iowa State University history, traditions, and people. Try flavors like Two Swans, Forever True, or Cardinal Tracks, and we promise you won’t be disappointed.
Stop by Great Harvest Bakery and Cafe in downtown Ames for mouth-watering, homemade treats. From cookies and muffins to brownies and scones, there is something for every sweet fanatic.
Written by Reese Scherder, Marketing Intern
