Create your own best day ever in the vibrant art scene in the heART of Ames. From art galleries and bustling workshops to funky eats, there is something special for every art enthusiast.
Saturday breakfast in style
Feel inspired bright and early with breakfast at Daytime Diner, a brunch and coffee spot serving up delicious eats, strong coffee, and retro vibes. Pair the fluffy French toast with a side of latte art for the most important meal of the day.
Take a class at Octagon Center for the Arts
The Octagon Center for the Arts, located in Downtown Ames, is a vibrant hub of creativity. The center provides a space for all ages to engage with one another and offer activities that foster an appreciation for the arts. The Octagon Center hosts a wide variety of in-person classes and workshops to help kindle your artistic spark. With classes ranging from painting, pottery throwing, and metalsmithing; there is something to suit everyone!
Lunch at Lockwood
Spend your lunchtime at Lockwood Café, a space connecting the community through good food and local art.  Fill up on sweet or savory crepes while sipping on locally brewed coffee and tea. After getting a bite to eat, have a look at the gallery displaying work by local artists.
An afternoon at the museum
Dedicate your afternoon to wandering through Iowa State University Museums.
- The Brunnier Art Museum is the only accredited museum in the state of Iowa emphasizing a decorative arts collection. In the Brunnier collection you will see ceramics, glass, dolls, ivory, jade, enameled metals, plus an ever-changing series of art exhibitions.
- The Christian Petersen Art Museum offers a glimpse into the work of Christian Petersen, a former professor and sculptor at Iowa State. The gallery is home to a rotating schedule of various contemporary artists, public art, and exhibitions.
- Iowa State’s campus is home to other museums like the Farm House Museum on central campus. Outside of Morrill Hall is the Elizabeth and Byron Anderson Sculpture Garden. This stunning collection brings together contemporary art and the beauty of the natural landscape.
Dinner at Macubana
Conclude your day in Campus town at Macubana, where you can never be too cheesy. With an entire menu serving up gourmet mac and cheese and grilled cheese options, there is nowhere quite like Macubana. The tempura Mac Attack is an absolute must. Wash it all down with one of their signature long island cocktails or locally brewed beers.
Written by Reese Scherder, Marketing Intern
