Ames City Guide

Food options include Iowa staples like pork tenderloin sandwiches, plus Mexican, Chinese, Indian, and Italian cuisines. Vegan and vegetarian options are moderate. Late-night food is limited mostly to fast food and some campus spots.

Nightlife centers on the university with bars and pubs mainly around Campustown. Options are somewhat limited.

The coffee scene is growing, with a mix of chains and local specialty shops. The atmosphere is relaxed and study-friendly.

Standard U.S. tipping customs apply: 15-20% in restaurants and for services; 10% for average service. Optional for counter service unless a tip jar is present.

Local SIMs are sold at Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile stores. Coverage and speed are good with these providers. ID is usually needed for post-paid plans. eSIMs are increasingly available.

The city is generally clean, especially near residential and university areas. Waste collection and recycling are regular.

Limited 24/7 pharmacies and convenience stores. Emergency room open all night. Food options after hours mostly fast food.

Large supermarkets like Hy-Vee, Fareway, and Aldi serve the city, plus a farmers market in warmer months. International groceries are limited but growing. Stores usually open 6 AM to 10 PM and are open most Sundays and holidays.

Most places accept credit/debit cards. Cash is rarely needed for daily purchases.

ATMs are common at banks like Ames National Bank, US Bank, and Wells Fargo, and also in grocery and convenience stores. Out-of-network fees typically range from $2.50 to $5.

Ames Community School District serves most local students; Iowa State University offers higher education. English is the main language. Check schools directly for enrollment details.

There is little organized digital nomad activity. No co-living or nomad-specific events. Some cafes have Wi-Fi suitable for remote work.

Many parks offer green space, shaded trails, and running paths. Popular parks include Brookside and Ada Hayden Heritage Park.

Good running trails and parks like the Ames Trail System and Ada Hayden Heritage Park. Routes are safe and scenic, with local running clubs and occasional races.

Several gyms serve locals and students, offering options for different training needs.

Public tennis courts are available in city parks and at the university, usually first-come, first-served. Equipment rentals are uncommon.

Padel courts are not commonly found in Ames.

Several yoga studios offer classes in multiple styles with English-speaking instructors. Both drop-ins and memberships are available.

Several dojos and university classes offer Taekwondo, Karate, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. English instruction is standard.

Seven Oaks Recreation in Boone offers beginner/intermediate skiing about 20-30 minutes away. Snow depends on artificial making; season is typically late December to early March.

Opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding exist on local lakes and rivers, including Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake and Saylorville Lake.

No surfing opportunities; Ames is landlocked.

No diving or snorkeling; the city is landlocked.

Mary Greeley Medical Center is the main hospital with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like Hy-Vee Pharmacy, CVS, and Walgreens are common and offer OTC meds. Healthcare quality is generally high.

Tap water is safe to drink and meets all federal and state standards.

There are many parks with playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and access to baby supplies. Family attractions include Reiman Gardens and the university museums.

Generally accepting with university support and some local events. State protections exist for sexual orientation but have recent limitations on gender identity.

Ames is pet-friendly with dog parks and vet clinics. Many accommodations and some restaurants welcome pets.