Find yourself in Ames for RAGBRAI this year? Whether you’re a rider or a driver, there’s something for you to enjoy in Ames. Here’s a guide to help you discover Ames during RAGBRAI.
For a taste of Ames
There are so many unique flavors to try in Ames. Whether you’re craving savory barbecue, a classic cheeseburger and fries, an unbelievably fresh salad, or a quick bite, we’ve got it in Ames.Â
Here’s a few of our picks, or check out all of the options Ames has to offer!
- Hickory Park
- Brick City Grill
- West Street Deli
- Clayton Farms Salads
- Pizza Pit
- The Filling Station
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For caffeine on the go
If you’re in need of a quick boost of energy, visit Burgie’s Coffee & Tea Co.’s location on Airport Road. Equipped with a drive through and locally sourced ingredients, your morning cup of joe will leave you dreaming of visiting Ames again soon.
Or, visit any of Ames’ local coffee spots, conveniently located all around town, like:
- Café Milo, west Ames
- Stomping Grounds/Bar La Tosca, campustown
- Café Diem, downtown Ames
For a moment of peace and quiet
RAGBRAI can be a hectic event. If you find you need a moment of peace and quiet, Ames has plenty of spots to relax and enjoy a few moments to yourself.
- Visit the peaceful lake at Ada Hayden Heritage Park
- Take a walk on the paths at Tedesco Environmental Learning Center
- Appreciate artwork at the Brunnier Art Museum
- Read a few pages at Ames Public Library
- Hang out with the butterflies at Reiman Gardens’ Butterfly Wing
For a night to remember
Ready to celebrate RAGBRAI with a night of festivity? Head to downtown Ames to play fun-filled games, snack on delicious eats from local food vendors, stroll through beer gardens, and hear your favorite rock’n’roll hits performed live by the evening’s headliners: Hairball.Â
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For unique sips
Celebrating is a must while you’re in town for RAGBRAI. Don’t miss your opportunity to raise a toast with these locally brewed sips!
- Craft beer paired with flatbread pizza and Bavarian pretzels at Torrent Brewing Company
- A wide selection of locally-brewed beer at Alluvial Brewing
- Specialty sangria flavors at Prairie Moon Winery and Vineyard
- Delicious cocktails at Noir, a prohibitions-themed bar in downtown Ames
- The best wine selection in Ames at Della Viti downtown
For local buys
If shopping at locally owned stores is your thing, Ames has plenty! You’ll find unique clothing, home décor, books, and even kitchenware at these local Ames shops.
- Transform your home with cozy décor from Nook & Nest
- Trendy women’s clothing at Kaylee, Portobello Road, and The Funky Zebras
- Made in house candles at Oak Lane Candle Co.
- Hand-selected reads at Dog-Eared Books
- Quality kitchenware at Cooks’ Emporium
- Ames-themed souvenirs at Barefoot Campus Outfitters
- Cyclone gear at Dogtown University
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2 Responses
Where can hosts, community, and riders find route maps in and out for riders, shuttle route maps and hours, shower stations and hours, and campground location maps? This would be a good place to put this information!!
Is CyRide running usual weekday routes during RAGBRAI?
Can city park bathrooms be open for 24 hours while RAGBRAI riders are in town?
Hi Shaela, you can find the answers to these questions at DiscoverAmes.com/RAGBRAI. Check out all of the maps at DiscoverAmes.com/RAGBRAI/RAGBRAI-maps-page/. Showers will be located in lot G10, Brookside Park (main campground), Towers North (Pork Belly) – $8 for shower; $1 for towel, Lied Rec Center – $10 (includes towel), State Gym – $10 (includes towel), Brancel Charters (Haunted Forest Campground) – $8 for shower; $2 for towel, and Furman Aquatic Center. CyRide will be running their usual summer routes, you can find this information at http://www.cyride.com.