Hairball announced as headliner for RAGBRAI Ames

Get ready to rock: Hairball is coming to Ames on July 25. Called a “bombastic celebration of arena rock,” Hairball is like 20 concerts in one night. The lights, sound, smoke, fire, bombs, and screaming fans is a rock’n’roll experience you won’t soon forget. Hairball will headline an evening filled with musical entertainment, food vendors, […]

Sweets, treats, and desserts tour of Ames

Two children enjoy homemade ice cream at Marmalade Moon in Ames, Iowa.

We all get a sweet tooth from time to time. The next time you find yourself craving a sweet treat, indulge in these best-of-Ames delights: Crumbl Cookies First, try the weekly rotating cookie flavors at Crumbl Cookies. Crumbl Cookies made its debut in Ames last fall, and has been a staple sweet treat since. Hickory […]

515 Week Celebration May 15-19

A live band playing on Main Street in downtown Ames.

Calling all those who live, work, and play in the 515 area code! Downtown Ames is hosting 515 Week, a weeklong celebration filled with different events happening each day of the week, including family night, a food truck showdown, history walk, and live music. There’s something fun for everyone!   View this post on Instagram […]

5 places to shop like a Cyclone

Dogtown University in Ames, Iowa.

We bleed cardinal and gold – and wear it, most of the time, too. Check out these shops to gear up in our two favorite colors. Dogtown University Fill your closet with all the essentials: cozy sweatshirts, tees and stocking caps from this campustown favorite. Grab Discover Ames merch there, too!    View this post […]

Discover Ames via bicycle

A woman riding her bike in Ames, Iowa.

Ames is a great bicycling community, welcoming casual riders and experienced pros alike – Several bike trails are near Ames and the surrounding areas, and the city has designated bike lanes just for riders. First, check out the City of Ames’s downloadable bicycle map for a summary of laws and tips, as well as path […]

Where to go for Cinco de Mayo in Ames

Margaritas from Celaya Tex-Mex in Ames, Iowa. Photo courtesy of Celaya Tex-Mex on Instagram.

This year, Cinco de Mayo falls on a Sunday which means it’s the perfect reason to get out of the house and enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine (and a margarita)! Check out these local favorites for guaranteed delicious food and good times.  El Azteca El Azteca has been an Ames staple for years – and for […]

Celebrate the Mom in your life

A mom and son cheesing outside of Daytime Diner in Ames, Iowa.

Celebrate family and friendship this Mother’s Day! It’s fast approaching, and the nicer weather reminds us to be grateful for those around us. Whether you’re having a girls’ day, taking Mom out, or just enjoying some company, here are some great ways to spend time in Ames.  The Ames Main Street Farmer’s Market‘s opening day […]

Best places to take a mental health break in Ames

A group of friends laughing in downtown Ames.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so it’s a great time to think about ways to take a mental health break. Take this opportunity to escape the frantic chaos, step back, breathe, and recharge in Ames. Here are some suggestions from Andrea Poteet-Bell, writer for Sunshine Behavioral Health: Furman Aquatic Center If you are looking […]

Spend National BBQ Month at these go-to joints

BBQJoints

Barbecue: where savory meats meet sweet sauces. May is National Barbecue Month, and what better way to celebrate than by checking out Ames’ local BBQ spots? Whether you smother it all over your face or tuck it into a bun, Ames has the best spots to get your BBQ on.   Hickory Park’s popular collection […]

Patio season is upon us

ames-restaurant

The weather is heating up, and patio season is here. We’ve rounded up some of the best places to sip, eat, and sit outside in Ames.    Start your day at Stomping Grounds with a latte in the early hours or close out the work week with a mojito at Bar La Tosca. Enjoy people-watching […]

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