From cozy local hidden gems to afternoon shopping stops and drinks after dark, this city knows how to caffeinate a great weekend. Whether the perfect cup means a quiet corner with a good book or a lively spot to catch up with friends, you’ll thoroughly enjoy a coffee lovers’ perfect weekend in Ames.
Friday
Once you’ve settled into your hotel, it’s time to explore! Start your adventure in downtown Ames with a stop at Morning Bell Coffee Roasters, where you can savor a freshly roasted specialty brew and even pick up a bag of your favorite blend to take home.
Prefer something a little more mellow? Little Woods Herbs & Tea is the perfect alternative, offering a cozy atmosphere and hand-blended artisan teas to sip or bring along for the journey.
With your energy recharged, make your way to the Octagon Shop & Gallery, where you can browse and purchase handmade ceramics, paintings, photographs, and more from talented local artists. It’s a wonderful way to soak in the local arts scene while finding a one-of-a-kind piece to take home.
Cap the night with dinner at Provisions Lot F, where stone oven pizzas, expertly crafted sandwiches, and indulgent desserts make for an unforgettable meal. Before heading out, swing by their pastry counter for an artisanal baked good and a latte to go.
@discoverames The most beautiful shop & gallery with the most beautiful art pieces 🎨 #DiscoverAmes #Ames #IowaStateUniversity #MainStreet #art #artistsoftiktok #arttok #artgallery #gallery ♬ we fell in love in october – girl in red
Saturday
Start your Saturday with breakfast at Lockwood Café, the place with the best crepes in town! Tucked away in West Ames, this hidden gem is a must-visit brunch spot with the perfect menu to kick off your weekend.
Get creative after brunch with Board & Brush! DIY a wood sign or enjoy a wood project workshop with friends. If you’re not a fan of making it yourself, support local and take a piece home with you from their shop.
Shh, don’t tell anyone that you’re going to Cellar 626, a speakeasy only open Thursday through Saturdays in Cyclone Liquors. From classic cocktails to seasonal spirits, this low-key bar is serving up something worth whispering about.
Dinner doesn’t get much better than Bar La Tosca in Campustown! Think wood-oven pizza, creamy pastas, and hearty entrees that speak for themselves. Grab a cocktail, share a plate, and settle in for the kind of meal that leaves you full and happy.
Sunday
Wake up and head to Clouds Café in Campustown, a charming European-style café perched high above the city. Sip on a warm cappuccino while soaking in sweeping views of Ames below. Whether you settle in with a good book or simply take in the scenery, it’s a peaceful way to ease into your morning.
No trip to Ames is complete without a visit to Reiman Gardens! Wander through the stunning Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing, where hundreds of colorful butterflies float freely through a lush, tropical environment. Beyond the butterflies, the gardens come alive with seasonal events, live music, and breathtaking blooms that make every visit a unique experience.
Before hitting the road, make one last stop at The Filling Station, a one-of-a-kind spot that reimagines what a gas station can be. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast burrito paired with an Americano or a classic Chicago dog washed down with a chai, the menu is anything but ordinary. With an eclectic mix of food and drink options to suit every craving, it’s the perfect send-off before you head home.
@discoverames Grab fresh coffee, hand-breaded tenderloins, and all your road trip pick-me-ups at The Filling Station!⛽️☕️ Conveniently located right off Highway 30 and open daily for fresh food and snacks. #DiscoverAmes #TheFillingStation ♬ American Girls – Harry Styles
